5 Questions to Ask your Moving Company
Some unscrupulous moving companies are simply out to take as much money as possible from the customer. Cutting corners wherever they can, employing one of these operators can have serious financial implications.
Here is a list of 10 questions you can ask to protect yourself from doing business with the wrong people:
How to Protect Yourself
Are you dealing with a broker, or are you dealing with a mover?
Using brokers can be convenient because they can help you to connect with someone who can cater to your exact requirements. Unfortunately, they cannot issue a fixed quote, because they will not be doing the actual work. All they can offer is an estimate.
Will your belongings be properly insured?
Accidents happen, and it makes no sense to risk losing or damaging your material possessions. Ascertain whether the insurance will be adequate to cover the replacement cost of everything in case of a complete loss due to theft, destruction in an accident, or in case of fire. It is worth paying extra for total peace of mind. You can even consider arranging third-party insurance if you feel unhappy with the insurance options provided.
When moving between states in the USA, moving companies need to be registered with the national Department of Transportation.
If not, the vehicle may never be allowed to reach its destination, resulting in additional costs to the customer. In addition to that, non-compliance with any law will be used by any insurer to refuse payment in the event of loss.
Does the quote cover everything you asked for, or will there be additional fees?
Some movers ask extra for having to haul larger items, and having to deal with stairs at your destination or your point of departure. While the final price might still be within reason, you need to know what to expect. In some cases, unscrupulous companies have been known to offer low quotes to get the job, but then add hefty fees upon delivery to make their money.
Will your belongings be transported to their destination in the same vehicle, or will a transfer be required along the way?
In the case of long-distance hauls, companies sometimes collaborate on a moving job to reduce the time the vehicle is tied up. Unfortunately for the customer, this means there is an additional element of risk during the transfer. Additionally, the customer has no control over the conditions under which the belongings are transferred: It could be done in the rain, dusty winds, or even in an unclean environment.
SouthWest Movers
Lastly, take care to note the attitude with which these answers are provided. If the attitude is dismissive, as if you have no reason for concern, there is the reason for concern. On the other hand, if you perceive the person is uncomfortable in any way with any question, find someone else.
Professional moving companies respect the concerns of the customer and understand the real value of the belongings they transport; not just the monetary value, but also the personal value attached to items that are often irreplaceable.