
How do I choose a moving company?
How do I know that this is a reliable moving company?
How do I find if a moving company is licensed and insured?
Choosing a moving company is always a tough task for the uninitiated. You are going to let someone pick up all your stuff, pack it, move it to a new location, unload and unpack, while expecting everything to arrive safely, no damages and the movers to be professional and courteous. Could be a tall order for some moving companies….. But, have no fear, you can use your common sense and some readily available resources to help you choose the right moving company for your move.
1. Get a written estimate from several movers.
The estimate should be based on an actual inspection of your household goods. So, always insist on a moving company representative coming to your home and doing a survey. Most reputable companies will be happy to provide this free service.
2. Make sure the mover has insurance and is licensed by the proper authority.
Make sure that you hire a licensed moving company. Hiring an insured moving company is actually a must in NYC. Never work with an unlicensed or uninsured company. In NYC, most buildings you move into will require a certificate of insurance faxed to the building management before approving your move. Make sure that the company you choose is able to provide the certificate and is properly licensed to move in the state you are moving to. For moves from one State to another, a U.S. DOT number is issued by FMCSA. You can double-check a mover’s license on www.protectyourmove.gov. For moves within a State, requirements vary. Check with your State, county or local consumer affairs agency or your State attorney general.
3. Remember your priorities when choosing a mover.
Being the cheapest mover does not mean that you are the best mover. If you get an estimate that is much lower than all the other bids you got, something is probably wrong. All moving companies perform similar services and have the same expenses to deal with. If you hire a mover based solely on the cheapest price, you may be sacrificing other things that are actually more important, such as getting your possessions moved and delivered on time. And remember, movers are required by law to deliver your goods for no more than ten percent above the price of a non-binding estimate. This is known as the 110 percent rule.
4. Do your homework.
Read “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move,” a booklet from the Federal government that your mover is required to give you if you are moving from one State to another. This booklet also has information you’ll need if your goods are lost or damaged during the move. Finally, check the mover’s complaint history with local consumer advocacy organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau.
If you stick to these simple rules, you will find a good moving company that will provide you with a professional moving experience, reduce your stress during the move and make your experience a positive one. Here at Usantini Moving and storage we have been moving New Yorkers for more than eighty years. We have been operating as a family owned moving company for more than eighty years, and we pride ourselves in proving excellent service at affordable prices. Check out our credentials. We have an A+ BBB rating.
We value your business and to prove that we are offering a $100 discount to all of our clients. Just click the discount button and fill out the form, we will provide you with a coupon towards your move.