Moving to a new house can either be a stressful mess or a smooth experience. It all depends on whether you’re working with a reliable moving company.
Unfortunately, fraudulent operators can quickly turn a happy occasion into a nightmare, from lost or damaged items to unprofessionalism and a lack of communication.
You can avoid these headaches by hiring a legitimate moving company.
But how do you know what to look for?
To ensure the movers you’ve hired are the best choice for your relocation needs, we’ll reveal the top three signs that let you know a moving company is reliable and worth trusting.
What are the signs of a reliable moving company?
Relocation involves a lot of planning, packing, loading, and unloading.
Choosing the right moving company gives you the peace of mind that your move will be successful and a positive experience. As you do your research, keep these three signs in mind.
Proper Licenses and Insurance
Ask for proof of licenses and insurance before hiring a moving company. Any reputable company will be happy to provide you with the necessary verification.
Only hire a moving company with liability insurance to cover any damages to your property. Also, they should provide worker’s compensation insurance to cover any injuries that may occur during the move.
How do you check if a moving company has proper licenses and insurance?
- For interstate moving companies, verify their USDOT number using the FMCSA website search tool.
- Ask for their proof of insurance.
- Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for certifications.
Provides a Detailed Estimate
You should receive an accurate, detailed estimate or quote of the total cost of the move, including all of the services provided, such as packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking. Also, the moving company should disclose any additional costs and fees, such as fuel charges, insurance, and extra labor.
Get an itemized estimate in writing. Beware of companies that provide you with a rough estimate over the phone or through email without adequately assessing your belongings.
Positive Reviews and Ratings
Online reviews and ratings from previous customers can give you a comprehensive idea of the quality of service provided. Also, ask friends, family, and neighbors for their local recommendations. Often businesses in your hometown have a reputation to protect.
To find a company with a proven track record of delivering excellent service for its customers, look for the following.
- Testimonials that describe how the moving company handled specific issues and complaints
- Online presence, including their website and social media pages
- Review sites such as Yelp and Google
- Complaints filed with Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- References from their previous clients.
Searching for a Reliable Moving Company? Go Local!
Smooth Move has been the preferred moving company for homeowners in the Charleston, SC, metro area due to our proven record of reliability.
When you’re preparing to move, we’re local, here to help, and ready to keep you, our customers, happy. Contact us when you need movers near you. Get your free online quote today!