27 June 2016

5 Important Questions to Ask Professional Movers

Hiring professional movers certainly makes the moving process easier. However, it's important to make sure you hire the right moving company. You don't want to trust just anyone with your favorite sofa, your computer and your book collection! Here are five important questions to ask professional movers before you sign that contract.

Is the Estimate Binding?

When given an estimate, make sure you ask whether or not it is binding. A non-binding estimate means you could reach the end of a move and be charged a whole lot more than the estimate. What you really want is a binding or guaranteed-not-to-exceed estimate so you can accurately budget for the cost of your move.

What Insurance Is Included?

You want to make sure that, in the event that your items are damaged or go missing, they're insured by the moving company. Make sure you understand what the company's default insurance covers. If you're unhappy with the amount of insurance, ask if you can purchase additional coverage. If you have expensive items, like antique furniture or a valuable collection, make sure it is specifically named and insured in your moving contract.

Are There Any Restrictions As to What the Company Will Transport?

Some companies won't transport valuables like jewelry or artwork. Others won't take medications or any household cleaning items that could spill. Check in with the moving company regarding their restrictions so you can either move these items on your own or find another company that will move them.

When Is Payment Due?

Ideally, a moving company should not require payment in full until you've unpacked the items and verified that everything is there and in good shape. Asking for a deposit up front is fine, but be wary of a company that requires full up-front payment or payment before you've had a chance to look things over.

How Will You and the Driver Stay in Touch Throughout the Move?

You may need to get in touch with the driver if you'll be late arriving to your new residence, and the driver may need to contact you in case of an emergency. Be wary of a moving company that won't give you a cell phone number to contact the driver during the move.

With the right moving company, your move should go smoothly. For more moving tips, check out our post "6 Moving Hacks You need to Know."