Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Retaining a Professional Moving Company

Retaining a Professional Moving Company
By Lou Ross

If you have accumulated a lot of stuff over time, moving should be handled by others. This brings up the question of retaining a professional moving company.

When deciding who to entrust with all of your most precious belongings, there are several factors your should take into consideration. Deciding on a moving company can seem a bit overwhelming, but with a few simple tips, finding and hiring the perfect moving company is made as simple as it should be. Before you sign with a moving company, there are several aspects of their services that you should consider.

For major moves, many moving companies will request an in home estimate in order to provide an accurate approximation of the price of the service. Instead of having each prospective moving company do an in home analysis of your household, narrow it down by phone first. You can tell a lot about the integrity of a moving company just by speaking to a manager or agent. A reliable and honest moving company with a slightly higher price greatly outweighs an insincere company. Choose your top three moving companies and have each provide an in home estimate.

When you receive your initial estimates, find out if it is binding or non-binding. A non-binding estimate is often free of charge and is just that- an estimate. The moving company has no obligation to charge you that exact amount if the weight and time of your move exceeds the estimate expectations. Conversely, a binding estimate will be signed before the move and you will be guaranteed that cost of moving. In many cases, a binding not-to-exceed estimate is the most economical way to move. This type of estimate guarantees your move for the estimated cost or less, depending on actual length and weight of the move. Always remember that in most cases, if you are not bound by an estimate, you will end up paying more than the company’s original approximation.

Estimates often fail to include special charges or add-ons. When you are choosing your moving company, be sure to get a list of all required rules and associated charges. For instance, many moving companies will not move a television without it being wrapped and protected, a service that can cost upwards of thirty dollars for each item. Make certain that your final moving company choice has reputable insurance and substantial damage replacement policies. If something does happen to one of your items during a move, you must file a claim within nine months of delivery.

Above all, check out what other clients have to say before you hire a moving company. There are many consumer services that will give previous customers the opportunity to express their gratitude or negative complaints publicly. Hiring a moving company can be a difficult task made easy if you ask all the right questions and do your research.

Find moving companies online at MovingCompaniesforyou.com.

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