Hiring a professional mover? Here are some tips to keep in mind. With peak moving season around the corner, it’s important to plan ahead.
- Start early. If you are selling and/or buying a home or have time constraints, the earlier you begin planning the better. Good movers book up fast so if you want to have your first choice, the earlier you contact them the better.
- The magic of three. Get three estimates from reputable movers and then make your selection. It is best to have three to compare and analyze the bids to see what will work best for you.
- Less is best. Start to downsize, clean out, donate and sell. If you do not want to pay to move it, get rid of it.
- Special items. If you have anything out of the ordinary to move, make sure you discuss this with your mover. They may have to find a third party contractor to accommodate your request.
- It’s a no. Professional movers have to abide by regulations and there are things that are ‘non-allowable’. In other words, there are items that they simply can’t move for you. Some of these are obvious, but others are not. These include but are not limited to hazardous and flammable materials, paint, aerosols perishable items and plants. Your mover should give you a list of these items. However, if you have any questions, be sure to ask your mover when they come to give you an estimate.
- Comfort level. As with any business relationship, you need to feel comfortable with the company that you hire. Keep in mind that the person who comes to give you the estimate, will more than likely not be the leader who arrives on moving day. Get a feel from each company when you meet their representative who comes to give an estimate. Ask them about policies and procedures. Do your due diligence and research them online. Go with your gut on this one. If you feel comfortable and the company has a good reputation, chances are they will take care of you.
