A moving company provides a variety of services that help people move. The most obvious service is transporting household and commercial goods from one place to another. These companies also offer packing and unpacking services, as well as storage facilities. These services can save people time and effort that would otherwise be spent researching and sourcing packing materials, as well as the physical labor involved in preparing to move.
When choosing a moving company, customers should shop around, ask lots of questions, and read reviews from multiple sources. This will make it easier to find a company that meets their needs and budget. It’s also important to check that a potential mover is properly licensed and insured. Customers can do this by visiting their state’s business information websites or by asking for a copy of the company’s insurance policy.
Many top-rated movers offer discounts and special deals. However, it’s important to note that these deals are often subject to certain terms and conditions. For example, some movers may only provide these deals to military personnel or senior citizens. In addition, customers should always be on the lookout for hidden fees. For instance, a “free” estimate may come with hidden charges like mileage fees or inflated hourly rates.
The best moving companies will have customer support representatives who can answer questions or concerns. These representatives should be easy to reach and helpful, and they should have a good understanding of the moving process. They should be able to explain what options are available and how they differ from each other. They should also be able to recommend additional services that can be useful during the move, such as auto transport or cleaning services.
Most moving companies require a deposit of some kind, but this amount can vary between providers. Some will ask for a refundable or nonrefundable deposit, while others will require a flat fee upfront. Customers should always read the fine print before making a deposit, and they should try to avoid paying more than 25% of their estimated project cost up front.
Another important consideration when selecting a moving company is the size of its service area. National movers can cover a large region, while local companies are familiar with the logistical challenges of specific areas. For example, a local moving company may be able to get special permission to park a truck in front of a residential block, while a national mover will have more difficulty doing this.
The number of years in business made up a small portion of the ranking score for each company. This is an important factor because it shows that a moving company has been around for some time and is likely to be reputable. In addition, a long-established company will have the resources to invest in technology that can improve the customer experience and make the process more efficient.