If you’ve ever had to move, you will know that the most challenging parts are not only about packing your belongings. For instance, choosing and knowing how to hire movers who will not disappoint you on move day is another daunting task.

The thought of packing up your belongings and handing them over to ‘strangers’ is jarring, and the frustration of hiring inexperienced or inefficient movers is also a torment.

However, with the right tips and a little know-how (insider knowledge, if you want), you can hire a moving company to make your transition smooth, easy, and maybe even enjoyable. 

Let’s get straight into it!

Start with a Walk-Through and Inventory

Any reputable moving company will want to walk through your home before they give you an estimate. Why? 

A thorough walk-through involves taking inventory of every item you plan to move. It’s the mover’s chance to note the heavy furniture and the fragile glassware.

During the walk-through, ensure the estimator is thorough. They should have keenly observed every room, every closet, and even the stuff in the attic. 

After the walk-through, they’ll provide you with a moving inventory and a detailed list of everything coming along for the ride.

If a mover peeks into a few rooms and says, “Yeah, I got it,” without really examining your belongings, it might be time to pause. 

Note:

A detailed inventory ensures there are no surprises on move day and helps give you a more accurate estimate.

The Devil’s in the Details: What’s in Your Moving Contract?

When it comes to moving contracts, details matter big time. Yes, contracts can be daunting. But when it comes to moving, they are your safety net. 

Checking the details of a contract is a good way to figure out how to hire movers that are right for you.

You will want to comb through the contract to ensure it’s detailed and clear. The contract should list all the movers’ services, the estimated cost, and any potential extra fees. 

With some reputable moving services such as Haulin’ Assets Moving & Storage, you will get any of the following three types of estimates:

Binding Estimate: 

This is a guaranteed price, no matter how much your stuff weighs.

Non-Binding Estimate: 

The final cost is based on the actual weight of your belongings, which means it could go up or down.

Binding Not-to-Exceed Estimate: 

Even if your items weigh more than estimated, you won’t pay more than the agreed-upon price.

Don’t forget to check the fine print for clauses about delays, damages, and cancellations. 

Imagine you’re moving across state lines, and your movers don’t show up on time. If your contract doesn’t cover delays, you could find yourself in a lurch. 

A solid contract will cover you, so you won’t have to wonder what went wrong.

Don’t Get Caught Off Guard: Red Flags to Watch Out For

The moving industry is a mixed bag of good and bad. While there are many reputable moving companies out there, the bad eggs tend to smear the rest. 

Well, the good news is that these fraudulent companies are often easy to spot. You only need a good eye and knowledge on hiring movers and assessing them to avoid falling into their trap. 

Some of the red flags that could spell trouble to look out for include:

Large Deposits: 

Be cautious if a company demands a large deposit upfront. A small deposit is normal and most reputable movers collect payment upon delivery.

No Physical Address or Office: 

Run the other way if the company doesn’t have a local address or answers the phone with a generic “moving company” instead of a specific name.

Name Switchers: 

Some shady companies operate under various names to avoid getting reported. If the company has many name changes, it might be time to skedaddle.

Lowball Estimates: 

This is a common trick to get people too invested before releasing the wrecking ball of extra charges or hidden fees later. 

Do your research and get multiple quotes before deciding on a moving company. It will provide you with a range of what the move costs.

No Branding: 

Movers show up in an unmarked truck? Red flag. A professional company will have branded vehicles and uniforms.

Trusting the Experts: Movers’ Qualifications and Training

You wouldn’t let just anyone handle your grandmother’s fine china, right? 

When hiring a moving company and entrusting ‘strangers’ with your belongings, you want to make sure they know what they are doing. 

A good moving company invests in training its staff to handle all kinds of items, from grand pianos to fragile heirlooms. You can ask about the training programs they offer and how experienced their team is.

Look for companies with specialized certifications or memberships in industry organizations. This shows that they are serious about their business and adhere to certain standards.

Non-Negotiable Protection You Can’t Ignore: Licensure and Insurance

One of the most important non-negotiables when hiring movers is ensuring they have the necessary licenses and insurance. It offers you protection in the event of loss or damage.

Plus, the company should have a valid registration with the U.S. Department of Transportation and a valid DOT number for interstate moves. For local moves, requirements may vary by state, so do your homework.

Insurance is just as important. Ask what kind of coverage they offer. Basic coverage is usually included, but it’s often minimal. If you have valuable items, consider purchasing additional insurance if you need it.

Don’t Forget Customer Reviews and Reputation

It’s the golden time of online reviews in the 21st Century. There’s no excuse for not checking out a company’s reputation. 

Reviews on the company’s website may not be reliable. Check other platforms like Yelp and Google for a better picture. It’s a great way to determine how to hire movers who suit your needs.

Don’t just glance at the star rating; read the reviews to understand common complaints or praises. A professional company will try to resolve issues rather than ignore or argue with customers.

Ask Questions — Lots of Them

Before closing the chapter on how to hire a moving company, don’t be shy about asking questions. 

Here are some top questions to ask:

How do you handle fragile or valuable items?

What’s your policy on delays or cancellations?

Can you provide proof of licensure and insurance?

Do you offer storage services if needed?

What happens if something gets damaged or lost?

How do you handle disputes or claims?

Can you provide references from recent clients?

How do you calculate the final cost? 

What extra or hidden fees should I know about?

If the movers seem annoyed or give vague answers, it might be time to consider other options.

Endnote: How to Hire Movers

The steps on how to hire movers that meet your moving needs are quite simple if you know what to look for.  

Get all the details you need, starting with an inventory and estimate of what you will move with and what it will cost you. Then, review your contract, ensuring it’s detailed. 

Check for the mover’s qualifications and ensure they offer insurance in case of loss or damage to your belongings. Reviews from previous customers will never grow old or lose effectiveness in helping you figure out if your move will be in good hands. 

Remember, it’s all about the research. Good luck!