Top Tips for Choosing a Moving Company
You need to move your home. Or your business. So, you want to make sure that you have a reputable, reliable moving company that will take care of your belongings as if they were their own. However, how do you figure out which company is the best one for you?
Here are some tips and steps to take to help you evaluate that seemingly unending list of removal service providers and decide on the right one for your needs.
Start as early as possible
Rushed decisions increase the risk that you may miss something. Start as early as possible so that you can make comprehensive plans and head off any missteps or issues before it is too late or becomes too expensive. This is especially important if you are planning an international move.
Ask around
Moving is a major undertaking, but it is not that uncommon. Chances are you have friends, family, and colleagues who have been through a move. Ask them about their experiences. Which company did they use? How was their experience? Would they recommend those movers for you?
Ask about licensing and accreditations
If you are moving locally or internationally, check the firms for their licenses and accreditations. Being certified by an organization like the International Association of Movers means the firm has to maintain a certain level of quality. This adds another layer of confidence in the moving company.
Get at least three quotes
Even if you have a company that comes highly recommended, you should still see what else is out there, if only to confirm the level of service and pricing. Three is always a good number of estimates for a comparison.
Make sure the estimates are for you
If a company offers you an estimate without even offering to come and walk through your home or business, you should beware. They should not rely on your description of things. They need to send someone to inspect everything you plan on taking with you and make a complete inventory. Pricing usually revolves around the size and weight of your belongings – for example, a four-post solid teak bed is going to cost more to move than a plywood bed frame.
Ask and be asked questions
As they do their walk-through, see what kind of questions they ask. They should not assume that everything they see is going to be packed up. And do not forget to ask questions of your own. Are there things they will not move, like firearms, foodstuffs, or plants? This is especially key if you are moving to another country – some places have strict import and quarantine laws that may mean leaving behind some items.
Get everything in writing
And “everything” means “everything”. Especially for your valuables. There is always a risk of damage or loss, even with the most reliable firms, so you want to make sure everything you value is listed in case you need to file a claim. Also, check the timelines and policies for payments, cancellations, and breakages. If you do not understand any terms or conditions, ask. A reputable company, like Allied Thailand, should be more than happy to explain.
Check estimate terms and pricing guarantees
Estimates are just as they imply. Estimates. However, this does not mean that the moving company can just start piling on extra fees once you hire them. There are usually terms attached to the estimates, such as they cannot charge you more than 10% above the original estimate for added services or that the estimate is the maximum that they will charge you. This goes back to getting everything in writing and asking questions to make sure you understand.
Find out about possible extra fees
Avoid getting caught off-guard. If there are possible additional charges, whatever they may be, they should also be detailed. This way, if you end up needing them, you will have an idea of what the total cost will be when the move is finished.
Will the company handle the entire move?
In some cases, and often with international moves, the company you hire may not have a presence in the destination. If so, has the moving company explained how things will be handled? Will there be a single point of contact for you throughout the whole process, or will you be handed off to someone else at another company? And can the moving company vouch for the destination agent? Are there safeguards in place for you?
Ask about different times
If you have some flexibility in your moving dates, ask the moving companies if you could save any money if you wait. Depending on where you are moving to, there may be “peak” moving periods that you can avoid when the movers are not as busy so their fees may be lower.
Deposit or payment in advance?
There are different payment arrangements that moving companies may present. Some may ask for a deposit to book their services and schedule and then get the balance on delivery. Others may insist on the full amount of the estimate in advance, while others may be amenable to payment upon delivery. These are terms you should find out as soon as possible, and they should be an important part of your decision.
Carefully compare and take your time
Once you have received estimates and discussed them with the (at least) three moving companies, take your time. Do not fall for hard sells or pushy agents who want you to sign off on their estimates. As mentioned before, this is a big undertaking, and you want to make sure that you not only make the best decision for your budget, but you want to make the best decision for your peace of mind. Even at this point, do not be afraid to make follow up calls and get clarifications. You should not make any assumptions.
Allied Thailand proudly offers world-class moving services to and from destinations around the world. As part of a network with more than 600 locations in over 40 countries, our team is happy to answer any questions and help make your business or residence move as smooth as possible. Contact us today to find out more.