Did you know that people in the United States tend to move almost 12 times during their lifetimes? The odds are that you’ll move many times in the years and decades ahead.
Finding the right moving company is essential whether you’re planning a short-distance or long-distance move. But the stakes are higher if you move to another town or state. You won’t want to work with a fly-by-night company run by people with no fixed business address. Picking the wrong moving company could leave you in a huge bind if the mover doesn’t come through.
You might need to move to start a new job, downsize after your kids move out, or even after the breakdown of a relationship. Whatever your reason for packing up and relocating, you’ll want a good service provider to help you move.
What things should you look for in a dependable moving company if a long-distance move is on the agenda? Here are eight things to look for in a reputable long-distance mover.
1. Expertise in Executing Long-Distance Moves
It’s essential to choose a company that specializes in offering long-distance moves. Some moving companies provide short distance moves, some offer long-distance moves, and others offer both. It’s best to avoid a company that only provides short distance moves.
They might try to convince you that they can handle the assignment. But it’s best to look for a mover with expertise in executing long-distance moves. They should have staff members trained to do the job right, moving trucks that accommodate your needs, and tools to facilitate the moving process.
2. Variety of Services
You’ll also want to find a moving company that offers various services to its customers. Will you need help packing up your stuff? Do you need a storage unit? Do you need a large moving truck with a driver and multiple moving staff? Will you require any other related services? Do you need to find a company that can accommodate a short-notice move or an emergency move to another state? Find a moving company that can offer the services you need to make your move successful with minimum stress. The further the destination, the more services you may need.
You’ll also want to find a company that offers the right moving supplies like boxes, packing paper, tape, and other things to prepare your stuff ahead of moving day. You’ll have more stress than you’ll know what to do with if you don’t have the materials you need.
3. Solid Communication
You’ll want to find a moving company that is a good communicator. Good two-way communication is essential in any relationship between a business and a client. You don’t want a scenario where you need to share an update on your moving plans and can’t get in touch with anyone at the moving company.
If you get an update that the mover needs to know, you’ll want to contact someone quickly or have them call you back pronto. You can usually find out about a company’s communication skills by picking up the phone and calling them.
Another way you can find the information you need is by combing over customer reviews.
4. Look at Online Reviews and Testimonials
Read online reviews and testimonials to learn what other people say about long-distance movers. Check out third-party websites where people leave reviews about companies they’ve patronized. You can also learn about different moving companies by checking their websites and social media platforms. You’ll have more confidence in hiring a moving company that has provided outstanding service to other people in your situation.
5. Transparent Pricing
It’s also essential to find a company that offers transparent pricing. No one wants a nasty surprise upon getting the invoice. You’ll pay more for a long-distance move than a short-distance move. You’ll want to know whether the company you’re considering charges by the job or the hour. How many people will be assigned to help load and unload the moving truck? What other costs might apply? A reputable moving company will explain the pricing options and answer any questions.
While you’ll want a good deal, it’s not usually a good idea to choose a moving company strictly based on the cost. A bargain-basement quote often will mean a low level of customer service. Ensure you find a moving company that offers what you want at a competitive price.
6. Ask People You Know for Referrals
Word-of-mouth marketing is the most effective kind there is. This is because people are more likely to believe feedback from people, they know than people they don’t know. Do you know anyone who has planned a long-distance move in the past? Ask them whether or not they would recommend the mover who helped them move. You’ll feel more confident taking recommendations or getting referrals from people you know and trust.
7. Insist on an In-Home Estimate
You’ll want an accurate estimate when you contact a moving company specializing in long-distance moves. The representative you speak to won’t be able to give you a precise estimate merely by talking to you on the phone. While the representative might come up with a ballpark estimate by asking you how many rooms your home has and some other questions, the moving company will need to conduct an in-home assessment to give you a firm quote.
Don’t even think about hiring a mover that won’t send a staff member to your home to conduct a proper assessment. The company needs to know what size truck is necessary, how many things will be moved, and how long the move will take before giving you a firm quote.
8. Insurance Options
If you’re planning a long-distance move, you’ll want to consider insurance options. A lot more can potentially go wrong if you’re traveling to another city or another state than if you’re moving to a move nearby. Finding a reputable mover and getting the right coverage means you’ll be covered if there are any complications.
Planning Long-Distance Move Takes Effort
If you follow the advice above, you’ll increase your odds of finding the right long-distance mover. You won’t want to leave anything to chance since so much is at stake.
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