Whether it involves residential storage or commercial moving, not all companies are the same. While many offer comprehensive services, like our Twentynine Palms movers, some also offer affordable moving assistance, but with limited resources. It’s important to plan ahead and exert necessary effort in figuring out the right mover to go with before it’s too late and you’re left with a big mess or too many expenses. To find the right moving company for your needs, check out these simple tips:
1. Get several estimates from several moving companies.
Do your research and approach more than one residential and commercial moving company to get a couple of estimates for comparison. Remember that the cheapest estimate is not always the option to go with. Go through your list and check out the resources and extent of services involved. Some companies will attract you with low rates to get a contract only to surprise you with additional charges conveniently before they remove your belongings from their truck. If possible, get a binding and final quote.
2. Ask for and verify the mover’s operating license.
Ensure that you’ll be entrusting your belongings to moving and relocation companies that are duly certified with an operating license. For interstate moves, verify a Twentynine Palms mover’s or any city mover’s license by logging on to protectyourmove.gov. For movers within a state, verify with the local consumer affairs agency.
3. Make sure the mover has insurance and you’re duly covered.
Not all moves turn out perfectly. Unfortunately, on rare occasions, damage to furniture or other belongings occur during transport. The local mover’s insurance should cover this. Study the policy and the limits of the coverage carefully. Ask questions and make sure you understand everything before taking up the contract.
4. Review the moving company’s track record.
It’s always a good thing to check previous moving projects that have been taken up by your local or international movers. Ask for references from the mover or the residential storage company and follow through on their list to check prior customer experience. You can also verify with the local consumer protection agency to see a history of complaints. Keep in mind that negative reports may vary, depending on each case, and you can also check how those complaints were handled.
5. Report disputes to authorities.
If you encounter any problems with the moving company, ask for assistance from them first as they may address matters efficiently first. However, if the company does not respond positively to your moving or relocation concerns, you can always file a complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration or by calling 1-800-832-5660. If those matters or problems occur during international moving of your household goods or vehicles, you may contact the Federal Maritime Commission.
For more helpful guidelines on commercial moving and residential storage, give our Twentynine Palms movers a call and ask for assistance on your relocation needs. We’d be glad to provide you with all the right information to make your move hassle-free.