Interviewing Local Moving Companies? Here’s What to Look For

When it comes to moving, you have to make sure that you pick the right mover in your local area to handle your valuables with care. You also want them to be reliable, dependable and professional, as they’ll be inside your new home and around your family. Understand the signs of good local movers with these tips:

Moving quotes with in-person or video surveys

Beware of moving companies that opt to only give you moving quotes over the phone or via email. Being able to determine the actual costs of your move is easier and more precise with an in-person or video survey. Reputable moving companies will provide a walk-through of your home to ensure that they’re providing you with the correct estimate. While an over the phone or email quote may be convenient, it will most likely be inaccurate and be a bigger inconvenience to you in the long run. Using a video survey combines the convenience of doing the survey from your mobile device, but with the assurance that a moving agent is getting all of the information they need for an accurate quote.

Valid licenses and certifications

Professional moving companies won’t hesitate to provide you with verification of their credentials. Verifying this information can help you determine whether the movers are trained and legally qualified to move your items. You can start the verification process with your state’s licensing portal website; then check certifications, such as verifying the company’s certification with the American Moving and Storage Association. You can also verify the credentials of local movers by paying a visit to their business. They should have their license visible at the front of the office as well.

Great track record

Reputation is everything when it comes to moving your valuables. A great moving company will have a great track record to go along with it, and will often come highly recommended. No company has a perfect track record, but if you notice an abundance of similar complaints from customers, it is probably a good signal that the moving company isn’t reliable. Consider visiting consumer protection sites, such as the Better Business Bureau or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Protect Your Move site to determine if the movers you’re considering have a bad reputation versus a great track record.

Background checks

It’s important to know that the people in charge of moving your valuables can be trusted. Make sure that the moving company you use conducts a background check on their employees. Another tip is to ask about any training their employees have received, both when they were initially hired, as well as any ongoing training since.

Updated website

Reputable movers should have a website that’s updated and that you can easily scroll through to locate contact information and read past customer reviews. The website should also clearly list the moving company’s services. Additionally, you should be able to contact the business via its website, including having the capability to send direct messages to the business or fill out a form so someone can reach you. The company’s website should also provide you with information about the insurance and the local address of the business.

Local movers facility

If you can, take time to visit the company location and see the condition of their office and warehouse. An office in poor condition may be an indicator of a rogue mover who may not take care of your items during your move.

Final thoughts

Moving to a new home or city can be exciting, but it should a process left up to experienced, trustworthy professionals. You can make your moving process effortless with the right movers, now that you know what to look for.

With locations across the country and almost 100 years of experience, Suddath^® has the insight and expertise to help with your upcoming move. Click here for more information or to get a moving quote.