Moving can be one of the most stressful situations you can find yourself in and sometimes it seems like it is a lot more work than it has to be. To make the process easier, first do your research and narrow down your top picks for a good, reputable moving company.
Once you have that peace of mind you will be able to get to the things that really matter, like deciding whether or not you need to get rid of that worn-out couch or if it goes with you to your new home. This guide, provided by our home warranty partners at American Home Shield, will help you navigate your moving experience and make it as seamless as possible.
Average moving costs depend on the level of service you’re seeking and the distance of the move. Many moving companies offer a variety of services, and depending on your needs it could get costly. This is why it is so important to get quotes from at least 3-5 companies, especially if you’re entrusting all of your belongings on a long-distance move. Do not go with the lowest quote, as this may end up costing you a lot more than expected in the end. A reliable company will need to know how much stuff you have to pack up before giving you a quote.
Depending on where your next move is, you need to check on certain laws pertaining to moving companies. Local companies that don’t operate out of state are required to have US Department of Transportation (USDOT) and motor carrier numbers. Some states do not require this, so double checking on this is crucial to knowing whether a company is legitimate or not, even if they are a local moving company. California does require these credentials, as do these other 32 states.
If you’re looking to hire long-distance movers for a move between states, the it is an absolute must-have that the company have a USDOT number authorizing it to carry cargo on the interstate. They should also have a Federal Carrier Safety Administration carrier number. Both should be clearly displayed on their site and in advertising.
Any reputable company should and will provide references of past business they have partaken in, no questions asked. These references should include accrediting agencies and insurance agents, as well as all previous clients.
Additionally, research as many reviews of the company as you can, as these can heavily influence your decision as to who to go with. Proper licensing, insurance, and professional accreditation can only go so far, and only real customers will be able to tell you about the type of service they received when working with certain companies. While some bad reviews can be normal, it is definitely not a good sign if previous customers have complained about them to the Better Business Bureau or Ripoff Report.
When trying to decide which company to go with, be careful about the following red flags:
American Home Shield is the nation’s leading home warranty provider. Their goal is to make owning a home easier by helping customers protect their budgets from large and unexpected repair costs. They cover most of a home’s commonly broken down systems and appliances and have a vast network of qualified repair professionals ready to help whenever the occasion. For more information on how AHS can help you now or with any of your future home needs, head over to their website now.
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September 30th, 2019 at 11:00 am