If you’re in the process of moving your business, you already have a lot to worry about. The last thing you want is a moving company that makes the process even harder for you.
If you’ve decided to use a professional moving company, you’ve already made the process of moving a lot easier on yourself. That is if you choose the right moving company. Luckily, in most places, there are a variety of reputable moving companies to choose from.
Choosing the right moving company can make all the difference during this chaotic time. If you’re hesitant to recruit a moving company, take these tips into account before doing so.
If you keep these helpful suggestions in mind, you should end up with a reputable moving company that makes the moving process far easier and should help you get excited about this new adventure.
Ask Around
First of all, get some referrals from other local businesses or friends that have recently come in contact with commercial movers. You can save yourself a lot of time by getting suggestions from people you trust that have already had to do this research.
Once you’ve gotten some referrals, you should have a few different options in mind. If your sources are trustworthy, you should also have a good idea of what you can expect from each company in terms of quality.
Did they show up on time? Did they answer your questions in a timely manner? Did they pack your belongings properly?
However:
The quality of the moving company’s work isn’t only the first factor that you need to take into account. Additionally, you’ll need to know how much the company’s services will cost, and you’ll need to make sure that these costs can fit into your budget.
Get a Few In-Person Estimates
Every move is unique. A few of the variables that affect the final price include the weight of your items, the amount of time the move will take, and the distance to your new destination.
Because of all these variables, most moving companies can’t give you a realistic estimate over the phone.
If you want an accurate estimate, you’ll need to ask the moving company to send a representative to your home. Once they’ve taken inventory of everything you need to move, they’ll be able to give you an accurate estimate, which will be listed on the contract.
Do this with several moving companies and compare each company’s estimated price and guarantees. Additionally, compare the services and quality of service that each company can provide. The cheapest moving company isn’t always the best way to go.
Make Sure the Company is Legit
Before trusting a moving company to transport all of your office items, you’ll want to make sure that it’s a well-trusted and legitimate establishment. Referrals are a great way to do this, but you shouldn’t make this decision based on one person’s word alone.
After all, some companies can be inconsistent. The fact that another business had a positive experience doesn’t mean that you’ll have that same experience, so be sure to do research in your own time.
Check Their Average Customer Rating
That being said, you’ll want to do a little more research before choosing a moving company and signing the contract. Read some online reviews and check the company’s average customer rating.
Generally:
If a company has a star rating of ⅘ or higher, it can be considered trustworthy.
Remember that some company’s with lower ratings are still legitimate, but the low score is still a reflection of low-quality or questionable work. It could mean that they’re regularly late or damage people’s belongings during the move.
In any case, you’ll want to use a company with generally positive feedback.
Check Their Credentials
Additionally, you should directly ask one of the company’s representatives about their licensing and insurance. If a company doesn’t have a license to operate as a moving company, you shouldn’t even consider doing business with them.
The same can be said for a company that isn’t insured. Any reputable moving company will be able to provide both to its customers.
Take Note of Their Tendencies
You can also learn a lot about a company’s legitimacy by observing their behavior. You can do this over the phone and while they determine your estimated cost. Take into account how organized they are, the level of professionalism they convey, and if they can answer your questions properly.
Don’t Pay Upfront
If the moving company asks for a cash deposit beforehand, that should be a huge red flag as moving deposits are not common. That business is very likely not legitimate as most companies will not ask for a large sum of money until the job is complete.
In a best-case scenario, it’s an amateur moving company that doesn’t understand the typical practices of the industry. In a worst-case scenario, you’re dealing with scammers. Neither case is ideal, so be wary of this behavior.
Check with the Better Business Bureau
If you want to be even more thorough, check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there is a long history of complaints against the company. Doing so takes very little effort. In fact, you can check a company’s track record with the Better Business Bureau online, for free!
Choosing the Right Moving Company
Determining which moving company is right for you is pretty simple. It just comes down to making sure they’re trustworthy and making sure the cost fits into your budget.
If you’re worried about a moving company’s legitimacy, just use the tips listed above to learn what you need to know before signing the contract. Online customer ratings are usually readily available, and helpful in your search to find the right company.
