Would you like to know how many times Americans move in their lifetime? Some people change several living places, some stay at the same one. It is estimated that an average American is expected to move at about 11.4 times during his or her life (calculation made by the Census Bureau in 2007). American mobility is amazing. But it only sounds romantic to move to a better place (even if it is so). Moving is quite a stressful and complicated procedure. And if you have none of your own transportation this means it is double the stress.
One example is moving from one street to another within the same town. Completely different is when moving to Orange County, CA from San Diego (two neighboring cities in California, U.S.). For such a distance you need a credible company that can arrange the whole process and relocate your possessions successfully. The main widely spread claims are connected with loss or damages of property, and property that arrives later than estimated which creates a bigger cost. This is only the edge of the iceberg. Here are some tips on choosing a good moving company.
License and Insurance
In case of moving out of state, check the company’s license at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration site. FMCSA Department of Transportation is on duty to give a DOT number to the licensed interstate movers. You have a right to request it from the moving company. That can buffer you in case of a claim application against the company, as you will need it. In case of moving within the state, check FMCSA’s contacts database for your local consumer affairs agency.
Use the Better Business Bureau
Notwithstanding the U.S. DOT company’s number at FMCSA, check the company with the BBB. All companies presented on this site are supposed to be accredited or at least highly ranked.
Verify details
Big companies usually receive a lot of requests. They confirm them twice via the online form on their website and follow it up with a telephone call to personally verify the details. It is in your best interests to contact the company and confirm the details (remember that a good reputable company should care about doing so).
From big to small issues
If the moving third party carrier insists on a prepayment or cash deposit it can signify an illegal service. A reliable company does not require a cash deposit. Delays while travelling to your house or a common non-corporate truck should also be red flags for you. Ask about the professional equipment and other targeted questions. If the answers are “We do not know”, “We just pick your stuff up and deliver it” or some other kinds of unprofessional responses, these are also flags to be worried about and do not continue to work with the company. It is better to not have the problems listed above and not be deceived, than entrust your belongings to a suspicious company.
Take advice
Looking for the best moving company and spending several hours checking its credibility can be time-consuming. Save time by requesting feedback from your friends, colleagues or family members that have already used the same service and were satisfied with it. Ask for a referral to the agent who deals with real estate or has a relation to it.
Specialized moving services
Do not use a company that deals with general cargo transportation. Only a company specializing in moving services can offer a specific goods relocation. Not all personal goods should be transported as general cargo, hence the items require special transportation conditions. Addressing the issue will prevent your goods from becoming damaged.
