How to Find the Best Moving Services Near Me

Moving to a new home can be extremely stressful. There are so many details to take care of – packing up all your belongings, hiring a moving company, changing your address, canceling and setting up new utilities, and much more. With everything going on, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why it’s important to find trustworthy moving services to help make your relocation as smooth as possible.

When looking for moving services near me, you want to find a company that is licensed, insured, and has a good reputation. Here are some tips for choosing the best movers for your upcoming move:

Research Moving Companies Thoroughly

Don’t just go with the first moving company you find online. Take the time to research and compare multiple companies before making a decision. Look for companies that have been in business for several years and have positive reviews online. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints filed against a company you’re considering.

You can also ask for referrals from friends, family members, or coworkers who have moved recently. Get their opinion on how their movers performed during their relocation. Referrals from trusted sources are one of the best ways to find a reputable moving company.

Compare Quotes

Be sure to get in-home estimates from at least three moving companies. Reputable movers will provide a detailed, written estimate after coming to your home to see what items you will be moving. Having several quotes to compare allows you to look at factors like:

• Cost estimate for the move
• Additional services charges
• Hourly rates
• Experience of the company

Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily want to choose the cheapest quote. Make sure to consider the company’s reputation and professionalism as well.

Ask About Licensing and Insurance

Legitimate moving companies should be licensed and insured. This protects you in case any of your items are damaged or lost during the move. Ask to see proof of the company’s licenses and insurance before committing to use them.

Long distance moves may require specific licensing, so be sure to inquire about this if you’re moving out of state. You want to verify they have the proper licensing for an interstate relocation.

Get Everything in Writing

Always get a written contract from the movers you hire. This should spell out exactly what services the company will provide and the costs. Make sure any verbal promises made by a sales representative are included in the contract before signing it.

The contract should cover pickup and delivery dates, hourly rates, packing services, insurance coverage, and any other pertinent details about your move. Never hire a company that won’t provide a written agreement.

Ask About the Moving Crew

Find out if the movers will be employees of the company or subcontractors. You generally want to use a company that only uses its own, trained employees. This helps ensure consistency and professionalism.

Also ask how long the movers have worked for the company. Experienced crews are a good sign, as it indicates less turnover. New crews may not have the same level of training and expertise.

Plan to Be Home on Moving Day

It’s highly recommended that you be present for the duration of your move. This allows you to oversee the process and make sure your items are handled properly. Being home also gives you the opportunity to point out any issues, damages, or concerns immediately.

If you can’t be there the entire time, try to at least be present for pickup and delivery. You’ll want to inspect your items and sign paperwork authorizing the movers unloaded everything from the truck.

Get References

Any reputable moving company should be able to provide references upon request. Speaking with past customers is one of the best ways to get unbiased, third-party opinions on a mover.

Ask for at least three references from recent customers. You’ll want to know if they were satisfied with the service, if any damages occurred, and if there were any hidden fees or other problems. This can help avoid potential issues that others may have experienced.

Consider Valuation Protection

Find out what protection options the moving company offers in case of lost or damaged items. Basic liability is required, but this only provides minimal coverage. Purchasing additional valuation protection is recommended to properly cover the value of your belongings.

Make sure you understand your protection plan and its limitations. Some items, like jewelry or electronics, may have special rules about coverage. Discuss all of your options with the mover to determine the best plan.

Schedule Your Move at Less Busy Times

If possible, aim to move during the off-season when moving companies are less busy. This includes months like December, January, and February. You’ll have an easier time booking a mover on short notice during slower periods.

Moving between May and August can be challenging as most people relocate during the summer. Prices are also typically higher due to peak demand. Give yourself plenty of lead time if you have to move during the busier months.

Pack an Essentials Box

Pack one box or suitcase with items you will need immediately at your new home. This should include things like toilet paper, soap, towels, chargers, medications, box cutter, scissors, trash bags, snacks, change of clothes, etc.

You don’t want to have to dig through piles of boxes to find essential items on your first night in the new place. Having a dedicated box makes unpacking and settling in much smoother.

Label All Boxes Clearly

As you pack up each room, be sure to label the boxes with which room they should go in. You can simply write on the sides with permanent marker. This keeps boxes organized as they come off the truck and ensures they get unloaded into the proper rooms.

Proper labeling is especially helpful if you have multiple movers working quickly to get you moved in. It avoids any mix-ups or wasted time figuring out where each box belongs.

Choose the Right Moving Company for You

Selecting trustworthy and experienced moving service is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your relocation. Take the time to do thorough research and get recommendations. Making the right choice can mean the difference between a smooth move and a disastrous one.

Following these tips will help you find the best moving services near me to get you moved safely into your new home. Moving doesn’t have to be a nightmare with the right professional movers handling all the hard work for you.