Summer is the prime time of the year for moving to a new home as typically the weather is good and public holidays mean you need to take less time off from work. Once you have made arrangements for your current home, chosen a new place to live, and you have a moving date ready… it’s time to choose a moving company!
You already know that getting quotes from several companies is always smart so that you don’t end up paying too much, and you know you are getting the best deal. But what else should you ask your moving company before hiring them? The following questions can help you interview moving companies and make a decision, so that you can get into your new home.
HOW will my belongings be moved?
Depending on what you own, how far you are moving, and the company you choose to hire, there are several options for getting your property from your old home to your new home. Will the moving company hire contractors, or do they have employees to move it? Do they have trucks, rentals, vans, helicopters, or airplanes, or are you required to provide transportation while they only provide movers? Do you need to pack your own property into boxes, or do they provide those and pack for you?
Are you insured?
Verify the company’s license number and insurance, and do not use an uninsured company. A company who is serious about what they do will take the appropriate precautions, and that means having quality insurance. Ask if your personal belongings are covered by the insurance policy, or if you need to get your own insurance for your property while it is in transit.
What is included when I hire this moving company?
Does the moving company pack your belongings, or do you need to do that beforehand? Do they provide packing materials? Do they help you unpack at your new home? Will your property be labelled and placed in specific rooms in your new home? Knowing what you are paying for can help you find the best deal, and help you understand how to prepare for moving day.
If you’re looking to save money and pack your own belongings our recent article on 24 DIY packing tips for moving house can help.
Will you protect my fragile items?
Even if you pack your belongings prior to the arrival of your moving company, large furniture will need protection to keep it from breaking during the move. Check to make sure the moving company will provide protection for furniture and other large items during the move.
How much experience does the company have?
Make sure that both the company, and the moving crew and drivers that will be moving your belongings have experience doing so. You wouldn’t hire a teen driver to move your property, so why would you hire a moving crew with an inexperienced team?
Will my belongings be transferred?
Sometimes, when you move long distances, a moving company will transfer your belongings from one vehicle to another, and you will move into your new home with a different crew than the one who moved you out of your old home.
How are the fees calculated?
Some moving companies charge by the hour, some by distance, some by the volume of property they are moving, and some by the necessary manpower. Ask how your quote was calculated so you have a better understanding of what you are paying for.
Can the company provide references?
Ask the company if they can provide you with references, or if they are active in the community. A company who cares about their clients will also care about their image, and you will likely find happy former clients. Check the internet for further references.
What makes this company stand out from the rest?
Sometimes you’ll find a company that offers extra services for an extra charge. Sometimes, you will find that you are already being charged for extra services that you don’t need. Extra services can include additional men, expedited service, or the newest moving truck.
Does the moving company have any questions for me?
If they are offering you an estimate without asking anything about the details of your move or your property, this company cares more about your money, and less about you.
Now you’re equipped with the right questions to determine your moving company, you can start further preparation for your move. The team at Budget Self Pack Containers has put together a handy Moving Checklist to help you out.
–Clive Smith is the interstate removals general manager for Budget Self Pack Containers, Australia’s expert long-distance and interstate container removalists.
Comments
These questions are really helpful in choosing the best moving company. It helped me a lot in organizing things properly and get the best deal.