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5 questions you need to ask your residential mover before time’s up
The moment you have a list of moving companies in hand, you need to start making a move. First, give each one a call to find out about their charges, special services, and packing assistance. There are several questions you need to ask your movers to verify their experience and ability to move your family belongings safely. Finding answers to these questions will help you find out whether your mover is the right one or not.
What is your registration number?
The moving company you pick should have a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration assigned registration number. The usually refer to it as the USDOT number. Several companies that operate within the state lines do not have registration. The best method of verification is by checking online with FMCSA.
Do you use subcontractors for hauling?
Larger moving companies subcontract responsibilities to smaller companies. Although these movers work under the more significant name, you should be able to access complete information about the subcontractors. In case, the company of your choice uses a subcontractor; they should readily share the full list with contact and registration details. While looking for a residential mover, check the diver’s profile to ensure excellent quality service. If you are in doubt about a driver or a subcontractor party, you should refrain from doing business with them.
What additional fees do you charge?
Moving companies can charge you for extra items or for moving novelty items they did not know existed. Most often, the additional charges accumulate when the destination does not have vehicular access, and the people have to carry the bulky furniture by hand. If you are moving to a high-rise or a studio apartment, always check for possible obstructions before the date of the move and consult with the building maintenance party for access to the elevators. The additional costs do not incur when there is proper parking space, arranged access to the moving container and no physical hauling necessary.
Do you provide insurance for moving?
A good moving company always provides insurance in return for a few additional dollars. Protection of an item usually depends on the weight. You should assess the value of your goods concerning the policy coverage amount. The standard coverage is about 60% of the total cost, and that does not cover the real cost of a valuable item. Therefore, checking your home insurance for additional coverage is a smarter idea. Often home policies have room for moving insurance that covers the costs of moving damage.
What are their packing and storage services?
You should keep a keen eye on how they are packaging and labeling the items. Companies usually shrink-wrap sofas, provide moving blanket service and protective covers for artifacts. Smaller companies charge extra for these services. If you are working with a subcontractor, you need to be extra careful about the additional charges they are accounting regarding packing. Always ask if a company charges extra for appliance transport. If the rates are higher than you expected, ask them about the policies. If the process is simple enough, you can pack these electrical appliances by yourself and save a few bucks.
Knowing your moving company is very important to facilitate a smooth packing and moving process. Additionally, speaking with them might also reveal a few trade secrets that can help you save hundreds.
