The first step to any successful move is finding the right long-distance mover. That’s easier than you might think if you have certain tips in mind when you begin the process.
The No. 1 rule is to not be in a hurry. Take your time and compare different companies. Create a short list of companies you think will work best for your move. Make sure you have explored all your options. This is not a time to rush into anything.
Before contacting any movers, keep the following tips in mind. They can help make the process much more manageable.
Timing
The timing of the move can impact cost and the ability to get it scheduled right when you want it. The big move season is typically at the beginning of the summer. June is busy because kids are out of school, and many families want to relocate to the new house and get settled well before the new school year starts. Consider picking a time that is not during the busy season. It may be easier to schedule the move when you want it and get a better price.
Is The Cheapest Always Best?
Not only is the cheapest not the best way to go, it’s often the worst. The world, including South Florida, is full of companies who promise a great move at low prices and then rip off their customers. There’s no reason to spend more than what is acceptable for a move, which will depend on the distance you are moving and the amount of items you are transporting. But when hiring a mover, you are definitely going to get what you pay for.
Finding a Mover
The phrase to remember here is ”do your homework.” As mentioned above, you don’t want to get caught in a moving scam. Take the time to read the online reviews and history of a company. Find one with plenty of years of experience. Look for those who have become a part of the local community, which is another big sign that they are a good business. Check to ensure that they are fully licensed to handle your move, whether it’s across the state or across the country.
Make sure that the company offers an in-home visit to assess your move. Make sure they offer a free written estimate for you. These are all signs of a professional company.
Questions to Ask Movers
When you finally create a list of movers to call, keep these questions in mind.
- Can you show me proof of your licensure (stay away from companies that can’t prove they are licensed)?
- Do you provide packing services?
- Do you provide packing supplies?
- What dates are you available for my move? How long will it take?
- Is the estimate I receive going to change on moving day?
- Do you have storage available for my items?
- What kind of coverage do you offer for my items? Can you direct me to third parties that offer moving insurance?
- Do you handle fragile items (artwork, pianos, etc.)?
What To Expect
Every move is different. But good movers all have certain things in common.
They will show up on time. You can expect a crew that is professionally dressed and respectful. They also will plan with you and will arrive in time to help with any disassembly of light furniture, such as beds, or any packing they have agreed to do.
Once everything is loaded on the truck, you will be given an estimated arrival time for your belongings (traffic conditions obviously can play a role in this). You then will drive your own vehicles to your destination, typically arriving ahead of the truck and preparing the new home for the delivery of your items.
Though all of this, you will have contact numbers that you can call at any time to get updates on the truck location and any other information you need.
