Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Tips To Avoid Moving Company Horrors on Your Next Move

By Sylvia H Harris

Whether or not you choose a moving company is up to you...unless the company you work for is footing the bill. The following advice is designed to keep you from choosing the wrong moving company.

Most people hire movers this day and age, especially when moving long distances. The cost of a move is expensive, but hiring the wrong moving company is WAY more expensive. The good news for most people is that if a company is relocating you, the generally pick up the bill. If you are the decision maker, the following tips will help you choose a reputable moving company.

For the most part, large moving companies give today's consumers several options to fit nearly any budget. You can find companies who will just park a tractor trailer in front of your home and you load it, to moving companies who will come in, pack everything, load it, clean your home and then transport your belongings to the new home, unpack it and set everything up, clean up the mess and leave. Most consumers pick something in between

There are also more and more 'complete' package companies springing up, designed especially professionals - allowing them to move to their job, without the hassle of it all. These companies do it all - from finding a suitable house within your price range and requirements, to packing you and moving you in. Some even unpack at the other end for you.

You'll need to check any company out thoroughly before hiring them - each company should be vetted to your satisfaction, with viable references, if possible. You should also search for any complaints or comments about them online, and see what comes up. These recommendations should also contain information on whether they were prompt, priced fairly, or added additional costs.

You'll want to ask the moving company you're hiring some very direct questions. Such as; reference from previous customers, whether or not they carry insurance for both damage or loss in transit and at the home and get firm quotes on everything. Make sure everything is in writing before you decide to hire a company.

Make sure a representative from the company comes out and gives you a firm quote and that you get that quote in writing. Never accept a quote over the phone or email. No one can give you an accurate quote just by asking how many bedrooms you have. Also, at the time they come out, make sure they bring a copy of both their transport and general liability insurance for your review.

Don't become a moving company horror story. These stories are a dime a dozen. Many because consumers failed to do their homework before hiring the company. People have had all their belongings come up missing, as well as the company they hired. Also, if there are any disagreements, the moving company may hold your belongings hostage until the disagreement is cleared up.

Some moving companies are just out to make a quick buck. This is why it's important to really check them out before hiring them. You should get their policies in writing and hold them to it should problems arise. What happens if there's a delay in picking up or delivering your belongings? What happens if the truck wrecks on its way to your home? What happens if your belongings show up damaged or stolen? These are questions you need answers for before hiring a moving company. - 16492

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