How to Choose a Moving Company: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving to a new home can be both an exciting and daunting experience. From packing up your belongings to settling into a new environment, the process involves numerous tasks that require careful planning and execution. One of the most critical decisions you’ll make during this process is choosing the right moving company to help you relocate smoothly. With an abundance of options available, selecting a reliable and trustworthy moving company can seem overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll walk you through essential steps and considerations to help you make an informed decision when you hire a moving company.

Assess Your Moving Needs

Before you start researching moving companies, take the time to assess your specific moving needs. Consider factors such as:

● The size of your move. Do you have minimal items to move or are you coming from a large home with multiple rooms to pack and move?

● The distance of your move. Is this a local move within Texas or are you doing a long-distance or even international move?

● Special items that require extra care. This is important to consider before packing up your grandmother’s antiques, irreplaceable mementos, or large items such as pianos that might require extra care.

● Your budget constraints

Understanding your requirements will help you narrow down your options and ensure that the movers you choose can meet your needs effectively.

Research Thoroughly

Once you have a clear idea of your moving needs, it’s time to start researching moving companies. Begin by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently moved. Or, you can ask your new property management company as they likely have contracts with local moving companies and professional movers, or at least can offer good reviews on reputable options in the area. Firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality-of-service different companies offer. Additionally, explore online resources such as review websites, social media platforms, and forums where individuals share their experiences with various moving companies. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews, and look for patterns that could indicate consistent strengths or weaknesses.

Assess Packing Needs

Moving companies offer a range of packing services to accommodate various needs and preferences. These services can save you time and effort, especially if you have a lot of belongings or if you’re looking for a more convenient moving experience. Here are some common types of packing services that moving companies often offer:

● Full Packing Service: With this comprehensive option, the moving company handles the entire packing process. They bring all the necessary packing materials, wrap and pack your belongings, label boxes, and ensure everything is ready for the move. This service is ideal for those who want to minimize their involvement in the packing process.

● Partial Packing Service: If you prefer to pack some of your belongings yourself but want assistance with certain items, you can opt for a partial packing service. The moving company will pack specific rooms or items that you designate, leaving you responsible for the rest.

● Fragile-Only Packing: If you’re mainly concerned about fragile or valuable items, you can choose a service where the moving company only packs and handles those delicate belongings. This ensures that your fragile items are packed securely and professionally.

● Self-Pack with Supplies: In this option, the moving company provides you with all the necessary packing materials, including boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. You handle the packing yourself, but you have access to the appropriate supplies.

● Custom Crating: For extremely fragile, valuable, or irregularly shaped items such as artwork, antiques, or large electronics, moving companies might offer custom crating services. They will create specially designed crates to protect these items during transit.

● Unpacking Services: In addition to packing, some moving companies offer unpacking services at your new destination. They’ll unpack your belongings, dispose of packing materials, and help you set up your new home.

● Labeling and Inventory Services: Professional movers often use a labeling and inventory system to keep track of your items. They’ll label each box with its contents and destination room, making unpacking and organizing easier.

● DIY Packing Kits: Some moving companies offer packing kits that include various box sizes and packing materials. These kits are designed to help you pack efficiently and are suitable for smaller moves or those on a budget.

● Specialized Item Packing: If you have specific items that require special attention, such as a piano, pool table, or delicate chandelier, moving companies might offer specialized packing services tailored to these items.

● Disassembly and Reassembly: Some moving companies will not only pack your furniture but also disassemble it before the move and reassemble it at your new location. This is particularly useful for large or complex furniture pieces.

When selecting a packing service, consider your budget, the amount of time you have available, your comfort level with packing, and the fragility of your belongings. Discuss your options with the moving company and choose the services that best meet your needs. Keep in mind that each company may offer slightly different variations of these services, so be sure to clarify what’s included in the service you choose.

Check Credentials

Before you consider any moving company, ensure they have the necessary credentials and licenses. Verify that they are registered with the appropriate government agencies and have the required permits

to operate as a moving company. For moves across state lines, check if the company has a valid USDOT number, which is issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Furthermore, reputable moving companies are often affiliated with professional organizations like the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). Membership in such organizations can indicate a commitment to quality and ethical practices.

Get Multiple Estimates

Obtaining estimates from multiple moving companies is crucial for comparing costs and services. Reputable companies typically offer free, no-obligation in-home or virtual assessments to provide accurate estimates based on the specifics of your move. Be cautious of companies that provide quotes without adequately assessing your needs.

When comparing estimates, consider not only the overall cost but also the services included. These estimates help you understand the potential costs involved in your move, and they allow the moving company to provide you with a more accurate final price. Here are some common factors that moving companies consider when creating an estimate:

● Volume or Weight of Goods: The amount of belongings you have to move is a significant factor in determining the cost. Moving companies may calculate the volume (cubic feet) or weight (pounds) of your items. The more items you have, the larger the truck or container needed, which can affect the cost.

● Distance: The distance between your current and new locations plays a major role in estimating moving expenses. Longer distances generally result in higher transportation costs.

● Type of Move: The type of move you’re making can impact the cost. For instance, a local move within the same city is usually less expensive than a long-distance or interstate move.

● Packing Services: If you choose to have the moving company pack your belongings, this service will be factored into the estimate. Packing materials, labor, and time required will contribute to the cost.

● Special Items: If you have large, heavy, or delicate items such as pianos, antiques, or artwork, moving companies may charge extra due to the care and equipment needed to transport these items safely.

● Additional Services: Any extra services you request, such as storage, temporary housing, or additional stops during the move, will be included in the estimate.

● Season and Timing: The time of year and the specific date you plan to move can impact the cost. Moving during peak seasons (typically summer) or on weekends may be more expensive due to higher demand.

● Insurance and Liability Coverage: The type of insurance and liability coverage you choose can affect the estimate. Basic coverage might be included, but if you opt for more comprehensive coverage, it could increase the overall cost.

● Accessibility and Challenges: The ease of access to both your current and new locations can affect the cost. If there are challenges like stairs, narrow hallways, or limited parking, the moving company might charge extra for the additional effort required.

● Labor Costs: The number of movers and the hours they work can impact the estimate. Larger teams or longer hours will increase the cost.

● Fuel and Transportation Costs: Fuel costs and the type of transportation (truck, container, etc.) needed for the move will be factored into the estimate.

● Additional Fees: Some moving companies might have additional fees for things like tolls, driver’s accommodation, or extra stops during the move.

Beware of Red Flags

During your research, be on the lookout for red flags that could indicate an untrustworthy or unreliable moving company:

● Unusually Low Quotes: If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Extremely low prices could be a sign of hidden fees or subpar service.

● No Physical Address: Legitimate moving companies have a physical address and a presence online. Avoid companies that only provide a P.O. box or lack an official website.

● No Written Agreement: A reputable moving company will provide a written contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the move. Avoid companies that only offer verbal agreements.

● Lack of Transparency: If a company is hesitant to answer your questions or provide clear information, it’s best to steer clear.

Interview Moving Companies

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, take the time to interview the moving companies you’re considering. Prepare a list of questions to ask, including:

● How long have you been in business?

● Can you provide references from recent customers?

● What insurance options do you offer?

● What measures do you take to protect belongings during the move?

● How do you handle potential delays or changes in the moving schedule?

A professional moving company will be happy to address your questions and concerns openly.

Check Insurance Coverage

Accidents can happen during the moving process, so it’s essential to understand the insurance coverage offered by the moving company. Reputable movers typically offer various levels of coverage to protect your belongings in case of damage or loss. Make sure you fully understand the terms of the insurance and what is covered before making a decision.

Visit the Company’s Facilities

If possible, visit the facilities of the moving companies you’re considering. A physical presence can provide insights into the company’s professionalism and the condition of their equipment and vehicles.

This step can help you feel more confident in your choice and ensure that you’re entrusting your belongings to a reliable company.

Request References

Reaching out to references provided by the moving company can give you firsthand accounts of the customer experience. Ask previous customers about their overall satisfaction, the professionalism of the moving crew, and any issues they encountered during the move. This step can provide additional clarity and help you make an informed decision and ensure you’re selecting a top-rated company.

Review the Contract Carefully

Before you sign a contract with a moving company, review it carefully to ensure you understand all terms and conditions. Pay attention to details such as pickup and delivery dates, payment methods, and any potential additional charges. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification before proceeding.

Choosing a moving company is a decision that should be made with careful consideration and thorough research. By assessing your needs, conducting comprehensive research, and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can find a reliable moving company that will help make your transition to a new home as smooth as possible. Remember that investing time and effort into selecting the right moving company can lead to a stress-free and successful relocation experience.

At SimplyHomes by Camillo we partner with Bellhop, a trusted moving company that combines technology with a talented team of workers to provide a unique, cost-effective, and stress-free experience. Bellhop will customize your reservation based on your neighborhood, the size of your move, and your preferred time frame. Contact SimplyHome today to learn more about this resident benefit, as well as exclusive discounts and offers for SimplyHome residents.