When planning a long-distance move, choosing the right moving company is crucial. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve outlined some key questions to ask potential long-distance moving companies. But before diving into those details, let’s take a moment to explore why hiring a professional long-distance moving company can make all the difference.
Top Benefits of Hiring Long Distance Moving Companies to Manage Your Move
When you’re heading out for the long haul, you want your stuff to make it to your new house in one piece and in as few hours — or days — as possible. To do this, you may want to enlist long-distance moving companies or a big van line. Which is better?
You’re able to have a more personal service with a long-distance moving company, as well as much more solid pick-up and delivery dates. You will, for instance, probably receive a dedicated truck for your shipment. This means, unlike with van lines, you won’t be required to share a moving truck with another customer. So, you’ll have one truck for your stuff.
Unlike with van lines, you also have firm pick-up and delivery dates. That’s because dedicated trucks aren’t stopping for other deliveries. So there is less chance of unexpected delays.
In What Situations Is It Best to Hire a Local Moving Company?
If your move isn’t long-distance, you might consider hiring a local moving company to handle the workload. Others, however, might prefer working with a national moving company for their relocation needs.
This preference often comes from the belief that national companies are better equipped to manage all the moving responsibilities. However, a local moving company can provide services just as reliable as those offered by a national firm. Here are several reasons why hiring a local mover might be the best choice for you.
In-Home Estimate
One major advantage of a local moving company is their ability to provide an in-home estimate for your moving costs. Unlike many national companies that lack this service, local movers can offer transparency and accuracy in pricing. This means you’re less likely to encounter unexpected or unplanned moving expenses.
Knowledge of the Location
Moving companies typically charge based on the distance, time, and specific requirements of the move. National companies that don’t operate branches in your area may not be familiar with local routes, which can lead to inaccuracies in their quotes. In contrast, local moving companies know the area well, allowing them to choose the most efficient routes. They can avoid traffic, detours, and other issues, saving both time and money.
More Dedicated Services
When choosing a moving company, the decision often depends on how quickly they can schedule your move and the level of attention they can provide. Local moving companies often serve a smaller, more dedicated client base, enabling them to offer flexible scheduling. This means you’re less likely to face challenges when booking a move on short notice.
Make Your Work Easier by Asking These 6 Questions Before Hiring a Moving Company
Regardless of your choice for meeting your moving needs, it’s crucial to ask the right questions before making a decision. Whether you’re hiring a local mover, a long-distance moving company, or one that specializes in both, it’s important to vet them and thoroughly research your options.
Here are six essential questions you should always ask a prospective mover:
1. Are Your Employees Contract or Temporary Workers?
One critical question to ask is whether the moving company uses subcontractors or temp laborers. Many long-distance and local moving companies rely on subcontractors to handle moves. In some cases, the movers packing your items into the truck may not be the same people unloading them at your destination.
This could result in several issues:
- The movers may not be familiar with your specific needs.
- Items could get misplaced during the transition.
- They might lack a sense of connection with you as a customer.
2. Will My Items Be Separated from Other Shipments?
When asking this question, it’s important to clarify whether the moving company will keep your belongings on a dedicated truck or combine them with other shipments. If your items will be mixed with others, ask how they ensure accurate labeling and tracking to prevent loss or mix-ups. Additionally, inquire about their timeline for delivery, as shared shipments can sometimes lead to longer transit times.
Opting for a company that offers dedicated truck options may provide faster delivery and greater peace of mind, though it might come at a higher cost. Understanding the company’s approach will help you make the best decision based on your budget and timeline.
3. What Factors Could Increase the Cost of My Move?
Many factors influence the total cost of a move. Unfortunately, some movers calculate costs based on the weight of your belongings, which isn’t practical for most customers.
When you’re busy packing and dealing with the stress of relocating, finding time and energy to weigh your items is nearly impossible. Additionally, unless you know the approximate weight of each item in your home, estimating their weight can be challenging and prone to error. This is especially true for furniture and other heavy items.
The simplest solution is to obtain a quote from the moving company, but be aware that unexpected charges may arise. Moving bulky or heavy items can significantly increase your expenses.
4. Do Movers Offer Everything I Need for Moving?
When it comes to relocating, there are numerous services that can save you time and reduce stress.
While some moving companies may only provide basic services like loading and unloading your belongings, many others have evolved to offer a wide range of options tailored to meet customer needs. These services can include everything from furniture assembly and disassembly to storage solutions.
5. How Do I Understand Which Moving Company is Better?
When evaluating moving companies, it’s always smart to ask what makes them different from their competitors.
This is especially helpful if you’re struggling to make a decision or if the companies you’re considering offer similar services. By asking what sets them apart, you can identify which company is best equipped to meet your specific needs.
6. Is There Anything Some Movers Can’t Move?
Every move is unique. While some are straightforward and involve small quantities of items, others can be more complicated, requiring the transportation of heavy furniture or large appliances.
Some customers might also need to move fragile or potentially hazardous items. However, liability concerns mean that moving companies may not be able to haul certain things.
It’s important to remember that every company has its own policies. Take the time to research what items each moving company can and cannot handle to avoid surprises on moving day.