Choosing a Moving Company

Get Referrals

What’s the most reliable source of moving company? Family and friends. Get in touch with them who may have moved recently to see if they have good recommendations. Personal experiences are worth more than the time reading all the reviews of these moving companies online. Alternatively, If you have an estate agent, ask them if they have reliable movers that they trust in the business.

Check Company Reputation

When It comes to choosing moving companies, It is always best to check on their name and reputation. Are they established? Are they new to the business? Be sure the company has a local office address and information about licensing and insurance. You may also search online and see if they have complaints and bad reviews. Most importantly, do not hire a moving company that changes the company name often, that is an obvious red flag. Choosing a reputable moving company is all about research, and part of that research involves figuring out how long a company has been in operation. Experience matters, and in determining who you want to entrust with your belongings, a successful track record is a key.

Removals Insurance

All movers are required to assume liability for the value of the goods they transport. Be aware that there are different types of liability and each type has a different charge and protection level. Look for Full Value Protection (FVP), the most comprehensive insurance plan for protection. This gives you protection against lost or damaged items.

• Repair the goods to the extent necessary to restore it to the same good condition as when it was received by the mover, or pay you for the cost of repairs if they can’t fulfill the repairs.
• Replace the item with an article of the same kind and quality, or the mover will pay you for the cost of replacement.

But always remember that there’s a limit to the liability. Better ask the moving company on the limitations.

If you can’t have the Full Value Protection, ask your mover what is the next possible option to insure that your possessions are in care and control. Check all the terms and the limitations.

Ensure that they can Accomodate Your Requirements

Whether you are moving a studio, or a 4 bedroom house, you need to make sure that the moving compay can accomodate all your needs. Check if the comany has a moving truck that is the right size for all of your things, enough supplies for additional packing and safety moving. Most imporantly, they can meet your needs and guarantee dates and time as agreed.

Get Estimates

Before hiring a mover, get at least three written estimates. In this way, you’ll have a hint whether a mover is reputable or not. Be suspicious if an estimate isn’t professionally done, as it can be a fake mover. Or, the quote is unusually low as it could reflect a lower quality service.

There are three types of moving contarct:

A non-binding estimate on your contract means the company cannot require payment more than 10% above the original estimate. Any overages must by paid within 30 days of delivery.
A non-binding to exceed estimate on your contract insures that you will not have to pay for any overages to the original estimate.
A binding estimate on your contract is supposed to be a guaranteed price for the move and all extras and services. If you request additional services (such as unpacking), any extra fees must be paid within 30 days of delivery.

Beware of Extra Fees

Every move is different from the other. Therefore, every mover charges a client differently depending on the requirements. Expect that you may be charged for extra large things or higher storey moving . Make sure to ask your mover about any additional fees that may be applied during the move.

Understad their Billing and Payment Terms

Reputable moving companies won’t aks for a large upront deposits or payments. Payments should be made after delivery. You don’t have the control over your things once they are in the mover’s hands.