Are you one of the approximately 40 million people who will be moving in the next year? Whether you’re moving because you need more space, or you want to upgrade, or for a new job, one thing is certain: you want to choose the best local moving company for this ambitious project.
As we all know, moving is a life-changing endeavor that can also cause a lot of stress. With all the upheaval, time crunch, and getting everything coordinated, you need a moving company that can help you with your local moving needs from initial packing, to loading, to transport of your precious cargo.
The question becomes, how do you go about finding the best local moving company? What questions should you ask? What traits should you look for when it comes to quality movers?
Here we will present seven tips for identifying the best local moving company for your move. You will learn how to decide on the right movers that will meet your unique needs and competently do the job, while offering you the most value.
7 Tips To Finding the Best Moving Company For Your Move
Be Sure They Provide Services You Require
One major step in your search for the best local moving company is to ensure they offer the right moving services. One example is do they have the experience and equipment to safely move large or unusual items. These might include pool tables, large aquariums, pianos, sofas, hot tubs, etc.
Avoid Paying Hidden Fees
Here are some instances in your move that may require separate fees from a moving company:
- You live in a two-story house or you’re moving into one;
- You’re moving to or from an eight-floor apartment;
- You have a narrow street that prevents a moving truck from accessing your house;
You want to be upfront with your moving company when it comes to any of these types of examples that could affect the efficiency of your move. You should expect to pay extra for movers to negotiate stairs and elevators, for example.
Similarly, you will likely pay a surcharge for the transfer of your personal belongings to a smaller truck for delivery.
Before you hire a mover, ask them about their services and charges. Explain to a moving company your properties and their unique needs. A trustworthy mover will be transparent about extra costs and how they apply them to these types of situations.
Avoid Packing Costs
You know you are on your way to finding the best local moving company if they don’t impose packing costs. Be aware, though, that if you take on the packing yourself, the moving company will typically not be responsible for any damage.
However, if you do have professional movers pack your belongings, the moving company could have you paying inflated prices for packing materials. Then there is the additional time and labor required for packing.
It is best to inquire with the moving company about their packing experience. You don’t want to leave anything to chance and later be stuck paying excessive prices for packing. It’s also important to make sure the movers are careful with packing your belongings to avoid anything getting damaged.
Rely on Word of Mouth
An obvious step to finding the best local moving company is talking with family, friends, neighbors, and work colleagues. Ask them who they’ve been satisfied with for their moves. Their experiences with moving companies could be the most relevant and helpful method for identifying the right movers for your upcoming move.
Check Online Reviews
This is especially important if you don’t have any personal recommendations. Begin searching online, looking for reviews on Facebook, Google, and Yelp. You’ll want to focus on moving companies with 100 positive reviews, with an average rating of at least four stars out of five.
After you settle on companies that are well reviewed, read the comments written by past customers. You’ll want to look out for any comments that point to factors such as being overpriced, unreliable, hidden fees, tardiness, etc. These should all be red flags, prompting you to continue your search for a reputable moving company.
Don’t Pay a Deposit
You should be wary of a moving company that asks you for a deposit prior to your moving day. You might think it makes sense to pay a certain amount in advance to secure your moving date. However, requesting a deposit is not a standard practice in the moving industry.
Research any company that requests an advanced deposit to verify they are well-reviewed and don’t have a lot of online complaints.
Make Sure They Take a Moving Inventory
A reputable moving company will take a comprehensive inventory of all your personal belongings. They will also work out the approximate bulk weight. This will happen via a virtual or in-person survey.
Your mover should be thorough and examine all your storage places like drawers, garages, cupboards, and bookcases. A major aspect of a moving company’s price is dependent on the weight of your stuff, as well as the space that your personal items will take up in the moving truck.
You’ll want to be sure that your estimate is as accurate as possible. Have the mover break it all down for you so you have confidence that you’re receiving the most value for your move.
Let Larsen Transfer Take Care of All Your Moving Needs
Are you planning to move locally? Our expert, certified crews at Larsen Transfer can assist you in your local moving needs from initial packing, to loading to transport of your precious cargo.
We will make it simple and easy to move from your old home to your new residence, and in a timely, safe, and efficient manner.
As we are also a trusted Moving agent for United Van Lines, we have the capability to take care of all your moving and logistical needs. Trust Larsen Transfer – the industry leader – to make your next move happen seamlessly!
The next time you need a moving company for a local, national, or international move, call on the moving mavens at Larsen Transfer at (509) 943-9139.
