Ever since the dawn of time, people have moved from one place to the other. They do that because of better living conditions. Back in the days, it was to be closer to hunting grounds and water sources. Today, people relocate because of new jobs, moving the family into a bigger house, etc.

Whatever the motive, the moving “market” is here to stay. And when you plan a move, it’s much easier to hire a moving company. These professionals will ensure to minimize your involvement, so you can sit back and focus on your new home.

The best moving companies provide all-around services. They range from loading and unloading boxes and moving them to the desired destination up to packing and (dis)assembling furniture.

That’s why it’s all about finding a provider that fits your needs. If you are wondering how to that, you’ve come to the right place. Check out our guide and discover how to find a moving company that best suits your needs!

Set Aside Enough Time to Find a Great Mover

The market is loaded with local and long-distance moving companies. That’s both a blessing and a curse since it makes it hard to choose a suitable brand. That’s why it’s vital to have enough time to research the market. It’s not wise to look for a moving company a couple of days before the move. You should schedule them at least a few weeks in advance. That also increases the odds they’ll be free on the desired date.

Don’t hesitate to ask friends to recommend a brand, especially if you need local moving companies. Your coworkers might also be of assistance, but don’t underestimate web research. Read professional reviews about the desired company, such as the ones offered on our site. They offer detailed information about what to expect from each mover.

Find a Company That Provides the Desired Move Type

Based on the moving destination, we can divide all moves into three categories:

• Local and intrastate – you might be moving to another part of the city or staying in the same state. If yes, local moving companies are your best bet.
• Interstate moves – this category includes those who are moving to another state. Depending on your location, these could only cover 100 miles, but they can also be true long-distance projects.
• International – these services are suitable for those moving to another country. These are the most complex projects, which is why you need a reliable moving company.

Once you establish the desired service, focus on analyzing the companies providing it. Another thing to consider is that a moving company might be a provider or broker. The provider has its own agents throughout the country. Unlike that, brokers connect you with subcontractors who are their partners.

Check the Company’s Reputation

We mentioned the importance of research. While doing that, pay special focus to the company’s reputation.

Here are some questions that could help:

• How long have they been in business?
• Do they have the required licenses?
• Are there any safety and complaint records with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)?

What Extra Services Do They Provide?

The basic services of a moving company cover loading your boxes in the truck, taking them to the destination, and unloading them. Depending on your preference, the best moving companies could include extra services.

Here are the additional options to expect:

• Packing materials – if necessary, the brand could provide all the supplies you require for packing. That includes boxes, bubble wrap, tape, etc.
• Packing fragile and specialty items – all moving companies are ready to pack fragile items for you. That way, you can trust the professionals with your kitchenware and other specialty units like pianos.
• Disassembling and assembling services – the movers can disassemble your furniture and reassemble it at the destination. Some companies also offer setting up internet networks and other extras.
• Storage – what if you have to leave your current home soon but can’t move into the new house yet? That’s where storage services come into play. The usual way of charging is per day, although some companies might offer certain storage days for free.

The Importance of Getting Multiple Quotes

Here is how the process works:

1. You contact a moving company and send the details of your move.
2. Based on the provided information, they provide an estimate.
3. You choose whether to accept the estimate and proceed with the project.

The price offered depends on many factors. Long-distance moving companies will charge more than local movers. That’s because they spend more on fuel and labor since the destination is further away.

The estimate could be higher if you ordered additional services. That’s why you want to identify the best balance between price and quality. Getting quotes from multiple companies will give you a better idea of an average market cost. It might require a bit more time and effort, but it could end up saving some money.

According to expert moving tips, it’s vital to understand different estimate types. Those include:

• Binding – the moving company can’t charge you more than they specified.
• Non-binding – they can charge more, but the maximum for overcharging is 10% more than the initial quote.
• Non-binding to exceed – the brand offers a maximum. You can only pay less than that if the items weigh less than specified.

Please note that the extra services you ask for after getting a quote are charged separately.

Other Things to Consider When Choosing a Moving Company

Here are some additional tips that could assist during the selection process:

• The deposit amount – most companies will require some deposit as a guarantee. However, you should avoid paying them a full amount upfront. Also, use a credit card to protect yourself from fraud.
• Talk with a team member – it’s vital to talk with at least a single member of the desired moving team. You can ask them questions about what to expect during the move, their experience, etc. The idea is to assess if they seem like professionals.
• Liability coverage and insurance – you can discuss different options to protect your items during the move in case any damage occurs.

Final Thoughts

Finding a trustworthy moving company is a crucial part of your move. You want a licensed and reliable team ready to guide you throughout the process. Most companies offer a wide range of services related to moving, so it’s up to you to choose the right package.

We want to make your choice simple, which is why we selected the best moving companies. You’ll find detailed reviews on our website. Those include details about their services, working and pricing processes, etc. Thanks to our reviews, you’ll easily find a company that fits your needs!