Tips When Planning Your Move

Let’s face it, moving is incredibly stressful and moving to a new geographical location is even more difficult. Finding a moving company which will deliver all your worldly possessions to your new home undamaged and on time can be a daunting task. These five tips may help in your search for that one moving company who will not leave you high and dry.

1. Plan Ahead. If you are relocating to a new area start your search quest early. While it is difficult to work with companies you may not be familiar with, there are many resources through web reviews, recommendation sites and social media. Make sure they are licensed and insured and find out if they are members of any of the national or state moving associations. Finally, don’t forget about the Better Business Bureau (BBB). For interstate movers, you can find out this information from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at their www.protectyourmove.gov website.
2. Agree to rates before hand and get it in writing. Local (intrastate) moves are generally based on a per-hour cost for the personnel and the number of vehicles that the mover provides (up to a certain distance, with longer distances based on the weight of your shipment and the mileage it is transported) and the level of liability that the mover will cover in the event of loss or damage is generally less than would apply for an interstate move. Charges for interstate moves are based on the weight of your shipment and the distance that you are moving and are usually subject to higher level of liability by your mover in the event of a claim.
3. Are you required to pay a deposit prior to the move? Large and established movers generally do not require a deposit before moving you. If they do, it is generally just a small “good faith” deposit. However, some scam movers or unethical Internet brokers may require a very a large deposit. If the mover you are considering requires you to pay a big deposit to “hold your dates” or to insure “prompt service”, you may want to move with another company.
4. Is tipping required and how much should I tip the mover? It’s always difficult to decide on whether and how much to tip the movers. There are no set rules, so it’s up to you to decide what you want to do based on the service that you received. Professional movers are expected to be careful to protect your belongings and the walls, floors and doorways of your home. Still, movers, just like any other service provider, always appreciate recognition for a job well done. Another nice thing to do is to provide beverages (water, sports drinks, sodas, but nothing alcoholic) and food (breakfast rolls, sandwiches, pizza, cookies) throughout the day. You should also advise the crew which restroom you want them to use.
5. What if my mover is late? If the mover fails to pick up and deliver your shipment on the agreed dates and you have expenses that you otherwise would not have experienced, you may be able to recover these expenses from the mover through what is termed a claim of inconvenience or delay. Ask your mover before your move what payment or other arrangements you can expect if your shipment is unduly delayed through the fault of the mover.