Hiring a quality moving company for your local (read: short-distance) move saves you time, energy and stress. But hiring an unprofessional and unreliable company will do just the opposite.There are several things to consider before hiring a local moving company, plus a few red flags to look out for.
What Local Moving Companies Do
- Packing and unpacking
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Moving things up and down stairs
- Insurance for your belongings
- Storage
- Appliance hookup
What Makes a Good Local Moving Company?
Qualifications
Professional movers should have training and experience. If a moving company has been in business for a decade or more, you can expect them to hire and properly train the right people for the job.
Ratings and Reviews
Online research can tell you a lot about a company. As you’re searching for a local moving company, check their reviews online. Choose a company with a plethora of positive reviews and read them to learn about previous customers’ experiences.
Once you have a mover in mind, check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see if they are accredited and have a good rating. Reliable companies will be listed with the BBB.
Contract
Reputable moving companies should be willing to sign a contract to ensure that they will do the job well and on time. The contract should also spell out costs so that you don’t get any surprises on the bill.
Before you sign a contract, understand the terms and make sure there are no hidden costs for things like parking or gas.
How to Hire a Local Moving Company
Because you’re looking for a local mover who can handle short-distance moves, you’ll likely have more affordable options than you would if you were moving across the country. But don’t just choose the cheapest option available to you. Do your research before settling on a local moving company to ensure you have a trustworthy and reliable one.
Ask for Recommendations
Word-of-mouth is a powerful tool. Ask your friends, family members and neighbors for recommendations. They may be able to point you in the right direction. A personal recommendation from someone you trust can save you a lot of time researching.
Some good questions to ask include:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- How long has the company been in business?
- Do you offer protection against loss or damage?
- What is the project’s timeline?
- Can you provide references?
- Can you provide an estimate and contract in writing?
Not every local moving company offers all of these services. Before hiring a mover, ask what services they offer to determine if they’re right for your move.
