Questions to ask your Moving Company
Moves are stressful, there is no doubt about it. One of the ways you can reduce your stress is to hire a moving company to take care of the job. Using a reputable moving company can save you money on damaged items, walls and floors, lost work due to injury, the time you spend preparing and the friendships you strain by asking for favours. However, ensuring you select the right company is important. Read ahead for the questions you need to ask your movers before you hire them for your move.
What services are offered by your company?
Not all companies are the same. Some are primarily focused on safe transportation of goods over distances, and others are experts in their local area neighbourhoods and understanding of the planning required to move in condominiums, apartments, large houses, or tight city streets at the best times. Some companies are especially known for handling valuables, while others are amazing at large items. Some companies offer professional packing and materials or storage, which is a service you may be interested in. Ask your movers what they can offer, you might be surprised.
Can you provide an estimate?
This may seem obvious, but some companies are reluctant to provide an in-home estimate due to COVID. You want a company that will send someone to see your home to provide an accurate assessment of what needs to be done and what the costs will be. They should evaluate the size, weight, and value of items, determine the appropriate truck size, and how many workers will be needed. An estimate should be provided in writing. If a company wants to give you a quote over the phone, try someone else!
Do they have an established reputation?
If a friend or family member has not referred you to them, you’ll want to read references or hear testimonials. Do they know the area? Are they established as a business? Check online reviews, use your social media, and ask the company for references. If they aren’t established, you may want to look around. If they have bad reviews, try someone else. If there are no reviews, be very cautious. Fly-by-night companies are a huge risk, and you don’t want to get caught in a moving scam involving your home.
Do they have the proper certifications and insurance?
In Canada, the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM), the Better Business Bureau, and the local chamber of commerce are three associations that ensure your moving company has some professional oversight. A copy of workers’ insurance should be provided, otherwise you could be liable if a worker is injured at your home. You can also ask if their insurance covers your contents, and if it does, for how much and who pays the deductible. You may also want to know if you can purchase additional insurance for valuables.
Do they have the necessary manpower and equipment?
Professional movers will have special transportation that includes vehicles with ramps or lifts. They will have moving dollies and/or moving straps for large items and stairs. They will employ their movers. If a company is outsourcing their trucks or their workforce, this is a red flag. Moving safely is a skill and an art. You need training and experience to do it properly without damaging the home or the items. The workforce should have background checks and appropriate training. If they are sub-contracting out to another company and there is a problem or damage is incurred, you’ll have two companies to fight with. Ensure that your company is using their equipment and people.
What are the costs for extras?
Avoid unwelcome surprises. Ensure that your written estimate includes how many people will be working on moving day, the size and type of vehicle, the number of hours expected, and how the costs are calculated (distance, weight, volume?). Ask what the potential incidentals are such as extra charges for stairs, heavy items, garages, or basements. How much is the extra charge if another person is needed?
It may seem like a lot of questions to ask, but if one person arrives at your home on moving day with a 12-foot truck, you’ll be glad you got everything in writing! A reputable company will be happy to put your mind at ease to ensure you are comfortable. If the person you are speaking to doesn’t want to answer your questions, try someone else. It is worth it to get more than one estimate to ensure value. This is one place that it may not be better to go with the cheapest option, but the one that makes you the most relaxed.
At Mike the Mover, we will do whatever it takes to ensure a smooth moving experience. We are happy to answer your questions and provide moving assistance to surpass all your expectations! Give us a call, or request a FREE quote to see how we can help you fulfill your moving needs!