We can match you with the best mover for your needs!
When searching for the right moving company for you and your family, there are various things for you to consider. Beyond figuring out your moving budget and deciding the date you want to move into your new home, the moving industry comes with lots of tips and tricks that can prove to be helpful. Today, let’s go over some of the secrets that moving companies won’t tell you in hopes of saving you money and time during your move.
Subcontracting does happen
If you’re moving during the summer months, which is peak moving season, many moving companies hire subcontractors or temporary workers to help them keep up with the high demands of the industry. Why is this something that professional movers keep as a secret? Well, a company with highly trained professional movers more likely to complete moves on time and minimize mistakes than one that has a lot of temporary workers who are looking to make extra money. Be sure to ask the company that you hire if they use subcontractors or not if this is a deal breaker for you.
Moving insurance may not be what you think
As a customer, you may immediately think that having moving insurance means that if something happens to your household goods, they will be replaced by the moving company. However, this is rarely the case. In fact, standard moving company insurance makes the company liable for $0.60 per pound per article. In other words, if all of your household goods are lost or damaged, you will receive only a fraction of what it’s worth from the moving company. We strongly advise carefully reading the Bill of Lading and all contracts. If you want additional insurance protection, talk to your customer service representative to explore your options.
Being kind really matters
A lot of moving companies handle multiple jobs in a week. This means that movers are often tired and stressed out. While we should expect them to treat all customers equally, fact is, you can help change the fate of your move based on your attitude. From greeting the movers with a smile to offering them water as they work, you can do certain things to influence the team to go above and beyond for you. Having a positive attitude and letting them know how much you appreciate their hard work is an excellent way to get movers to work even harder to complete your move on time with minimal damages. While you are not required to tip your movers, it is a nice gesture that can go a long way.
It’s worth it to get multiple moving quotes
Every moving company you encounter will make it seem as though it’s moving quotes are the most affordable and accurate. Well, we encourage you to get at least 3 moving quotes before deciding what company to go with. Since most moving quotes are free, all it takes is some time and research to compare and contrast prices between a few of the most popular moving companies in your area. Remember, there’s never any harm in shopping around to ensure that you get the best possible deal.
You should do as much as you can
Most moving companies push the concept of “let us do the work” while you relax. Yes, this sounds great and allows you lots of free time for other things in your life but it can also increase your moving bill. In essence, a full service move where a moving company handles everything will always cost more than a simpler one. Invite some friends over and have a packing party where you get things organized over a few glasses of wine. The more you simplify things for the moving company, the less work they will have to do. When you decrease the time, your move will take and that manpower that’s needed, you’ll be well on your way to saving money.
Experience always matters
If you happen to be moving during peak moving times, you may realize that a lot of companies are popping up that are brand new. This happens in busy season because people often derive a get rich quick scheme and see moving as a way to earn a lot of money quickly. However, we urge you to be cautious and select a long distance moving company that has enough experience to make you feel comfortable. While experience isn’t everything, a company that has been doing this for 10 years plus probably has the expertise to avoid previous mistakes and handle a wide variety of moving requests. Don’t be impressed by a company that has state-of-the-art moving supplies and fancy trucks. Instead ask about their experience and make sure they are accredited by The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Remember, your goal is to make the best possible decision to ensure a smooth move. We hope that exposing these moving company secrets will help.