The Importance of Choosing the Right Moving Company
Moving to a new home or office can be an exciting but stressful experience. With so much to coordinate and organize, selecting the right moving company to handle your belongings is one of the most critical choices you’ll make during the relocation process. The company you choose will literally have your livelihood in their hands. While cost is certainly an important factor, it should not be the only criteria when selecting a moving company. The quality and expertise of the movers, as well as their reputation for safe handling of cherished possessions, must also weigh heavily on the decision.
Do Your Research to Find the Best Fit
The moving industry has thousands of companies to choose from, ranging from large national brands to smaller local outfits. With so many options, it’s essential to do your research to find the best fit for your specific moving needs. Start by gathering recommendations from friends, family, neighbors and co-workers who have recently moved. Check online review sites to see ratings and feedback left by previous customers for moving companies you’re considering. Be sure to research factors like licensing, insurance, employee background checks and training procedures.
Call each moving company to inquire about their specialties, experience and capabilities. Ask lots of questions about their processes and protections. A reputable company will be happy to provide you with information and references. Be wary of movers who give vague answers or seem reluctant to supply the details you request.
Verify Credentials, Licenses and Experience
When researching moving companies, you want to confirm they have all required credentials, licenses and insurance. Interstate moves need to be handled by movers registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). FMCSA registration ensures the company follows federal regulations for safety and transporting household goods.
Check that the mover has proper operating authority from the Department of Transportation for all states involved in the relocation. They should carry cargo insurance, auto liability insurance, worker’s compensation and be bonded to protect your belongings from damage or loss. Ask for copies of their certificates and policies.
You’ll also want to verify what level of moving experience they have. Some companies specialize in local moves, others handle long-distance relocations and some offer international moving services. Make sure their experience matches the type of move you require.
Understand Services, Rates and Options
Not all moving companies offer the same services and options, so discuss your specific needs to determine if they can accommodate them. Are you looking for full packing services or just loading/unloading? Do you need storage or crating for special items? Make sure to disclose all your expectations upfront so there are no surprises.
Get a detailed, written estimate of rates and fees from each mover you’re considering. Most offer free in-home estimates. Make sure you understand exactly what is covered and what additional costs may apply before signing any contracts. Inquire about discounts, special rates or promotions that could save you money.
Ask lots of questions to leave no stone unturned when evaluating moving companies. The more information you can gather, the better chance you have of making the right choice.
Look for Red Flags as You Research
Hopefully checking credentials and references will eliminate any disreputable movers from consideration. But continue looking for possible red flags as you conduct research:
- Lack of company information or vague details online
- Unwillingness to provide certifications, licenses, reference contacts
- Listed as “unauthorized mover” by FMCSA or excessive complaints
- Unable to visit in person for estimates (companies only quoting over phone/internet)
- Claims of very low rates compared to competitors (“too good to be true” pricing)
- Pushy sales tactics or demands for large deposits.
These types of warning signs indicate less-than-trustworthy movers you’ll want to avoid hiring.
Professional Association Memberships Offer Reassurance
When a moving company has been accepted into established industry associations, it adds an extra layer of trust in their reputation. Look for movers who hold memberships in organizations like:
- American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA)– requires adherence to ethical practices
- State moving associations– ensures familiarity with state regulations
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)– indicates responsible business practices.
Association membership gives you added peace of mind the company is committed to honesty, quality service and operating with high standards.
Choose a Mover That Makes Logistics Smooth
Moving is inevitably going to be disruptive to your routine – you want to minimize unnecessary hassles. Look for movers that will simplify logistics and go the extra mile for customer service. Seek recommendations for companies known for:
- Flexible scheduling for packing/pickup/delivery
- Accommodating special requests
- Clearly communicating timelines and expectations
- Quick response times to inquiries and issues
- Friendly, trained staff who listen to your needs.
Selecting movers focused on service over just cost will give you a more positive moving experience.
Trust Your Belongings Only to Reliable, Experienced Pros
When it comes to entrusting your belongings to strangers, you want assurance they will treat your items with the utmost care and professionalism. This is where experience, training and reputation are invaluable. Look for movers who:
- Have longtrack records of reliably transporting household goods (5+ years recommended)
- Put staff through rigorous onboarding and training on safe moving methods
- Have stellar ratings and reviews from a multitude of satisfied customers
- Use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques for safe transportation
- Handle claims quickly and fairly if any damage should occur.
Going with an established, reputable moving company minimizes risk and provides peace of mind your items are in good hands.
Road Scholars Moving and Storage: The Smart Choice for Any Relocation
When it comes to selecting trustworthy, experienced moving companies known for stellar service, Road Scholars Moving and Storage rises to the top. With over 15 years proudly serving the metro area, Road Scholars has the expertise to handle local moves of any size as well as long-distance relocations across the country.
Our professionally trained staff treats every customer like family and every item like our own. We take extra care providing specialized packing and crating services to protect your most cherished belongings. Our fleet of well-maintained trucks and best-in-class equipment helps ensure smooth, incident-free transport. Road Scholars handles thousands of moves annually throughout the region while maintaining an exceptional track record for safety and customer satisfaction.
We believe clear communication is key – from providing detailed estimates, to outlining timelines, to answering every question promptly. Our flexible scheduling aims to reduce the stresses of moving day. We are licensed and insured for your protection, proudly maintaining an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
For a moving company you can trust completely, choose Road Scholars Moving and Storage. Contact us today for your free estimate and experience the confidence that comes from hiring true moving professionals.
FAQs
What services do you offer?
We are a full-service moving company offering a range of services including packing, loading, transportation, unloading, unpacking, and storage. Our trained staff can handle any size move from 1-bedroom apartments to large 5+ bedroom homes.
How do you charge for moves?
We provide free in-home estimates to give you an accurate quote for your move. Rates are typically charged by the hour or number of crew members. Additional fees may apply for stairs, long walks, elevators, packing materials, storage, etc. We never charge hidden fees and provide a binding estimate upfront.
Are your employees screened and trained?
Yes, we do extensive background checks on all employees prior to hiring. Our movers go through rigorous training on safe lifting techniques, packing methods, driving, and customer service. Their skills are constantly evaluated to ensure quality service.
Do you have insurance coverage?
We carry the required licenses and insurance for moving companies, including cargo/goods insurance, auto liability insurance, and workers compensation. This protects your belongings from damage or loss.
What steps do you take for safe transportation?
Our modern trucks are GPS-equipped and carefully maintained. Furniture pads, straps, dollies, ramps and other tools are used to safely transport and secure your items. Our drivers are licensed, experienced, and drug/alcohol tested.
How can I prepare for my move?
Provide an accurate inventory of items and get rid of unnecessary belongings beforehand. Pack a “first day” bag for immediate needs upon arrival. Label boxes by room for easier unloading. Let us know about any special handling requirements.
What is your damage claim process?
Though rare, damages can occur. We ask you inspect belongings and notify us of any damage before our crew leaves. We will assess and file claims fairly based on our insurance policies.
Do you offer storage services?
Yes, we have climate-controlled storage facilities available for any duration required. We offer both short-term storage while transitioning homes or long-term solutions if needed.