Finding Great Movers, Part 2

Here is the second of 2 posts on finding great movers:

Pricing

Price is obviously very important is selecting a moving company. However, it isn't the only factor. In fact, we think that quality, safety and reliability are at least as important. When you think that you will be trusting all your most important possession to be driven off by complete strangers, it puts pricing in some perspective. Further, if you see an estimate that's more than 1/3 lower than the next lowest estimate, it's a good idea to find out why. Very often an extremely low estimate is a sign of movers who are either very inexperienced or desperate. And neither of those reasons should be cause for encouragement!


"Binding Not to Exceed" Estimates

There is 2 primary types of moving estimates- binding and non-binding. Non-binding estimates are not contracts, and provide those moving with limited rights. Binding estimates are contracts and are binding on both you and the moving company. "Binding Not to Exceed" estimates put a firm cap on the amount you can be charged, so long as you don't request additional services or add items to be moved. Moving companies tend to be careful in creating such estimates, and many companies don't offer them at all. However, wherever possible, see if you can get your potential movers to agree to creating one for you.


"Rogue Movers"

The Department of Transportation offers specific warnings about scam artists known as "rogue movers." These groups offer a very low estimate for an upcoming move. However, once your goods are on their truck, they demand exhorbitant fees to release your possessions. Here are the warning signs the DOT points out:

• The mover doesn't offer or agree to an on-site inspection of your household goods and gives an estimate over the phone or Internet—sight-unseen. These estimates often sound too good-to-be-true. They usually are.
• The moving company demands cash or a large deposit before the move.
• The mover doesn't provide you with a copy of "

Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move," a booklet movers are required by Federal regulations to supply to their customers in the planning stages of interstate moves.

The company's Web site has no local address and no information about licensing or insurance.

The mover claims all goods are covered by their insurance.

When you call the mover, the telephone is answered with a generic "Movers" or "Moving company," rather than the company's name.

Offices and warehouse are in poor condition or nonexistent.

On moving day, a rental truck arrives rather than a company-owned and marked fleet truck.

A Final Note

While selecting a moving company can be an imposing task, it's important to note that moves with reputable companies tend to turn out well. Following the simple steps in this article can help ensure that your move is a successful one.

Here are some other free resources:

101 Best Moving Tips
Ultimate Moving Checklist
Easy-to-follow Packing Tips
Finding Great Movers