How to Find a Reputable Moving Company
You won’t find any shortage of local moving companies when it comes time to move. It’s a flourishing market where old and new businesses compete against each other, advertising on the Internet, in the yellow pages, and through other medium. With so many choices you need some basic criteria to decide which companies are trustworthy and which ones aren’t.
Bad movers make for a very bad moving experience. They may show up late, work slowly, damage your stuff, get lost en route, and then add hidden charges on to their original estimate. This is why it’s important that you don’t just chose the company who offers the lowest estimate, or the one with the biggest ad.
To start with, a reputable house or apartment moving firm will be fully licensed and insured. They’ll have been in business for a number of years and be in good standing with the BBB. Avoid hiring brand new start-up companies unless you personally know the owners. Not only do they have less experience, but sometimes such companies spring up quickly to make a profit, and then disappear after numerous complaints.
One possible resource is the Internet. Look for websites that not only provide quotes from movers in your area, but which also take the trouble to vet those businesses first. Also search the company name to turn up any posted complaints. Another resource are your own friends and family members. Know someone who’s moved recently? Ask them who they used, and if they were happy with them.
Always be sure to get in-house estimates from at least three different businesses. They should send someone over to look over your possessions and give you a written estimate of the costs. Make sure that the estimate is for all total costs and personally discuss their experience, insurance and other credentials before making a decision.