How to Choose the Right Movers

The average American moves almost 12 times in their life. Businesses also relocate to expand operations or take advantage of changing market opportunities. That's a lot of packing and shipping. With all of the stress inherent in a move, choosing the right movers is a must. A good moving company can help make the seemingly overwhelming task of getting things from point A to point B relatively painless. So, how can someone find the right movers? Use the same process that works when looking for any quality vendor.

1. Start With Research

One of the first questions on the list to ask any mover is about licensing. Is their license current and do they provide the number so customers can confirm with the licensing agency? When moving from one New York address to another, a local moving company is likely the best option. After all, national chains have all of the legalities taken care of for crossing state lines, but they may not have the same level of customer service available from a smaller company. Search for a moving company that matches the details of the planned move.

2. Read Lots of Reviews

It's important to know what other people say about a moving company. Many people have horror stories about a vendor. It can be pretty sobering to realize that a quick look at customer experiences would have revealed the potential problems ahead of time. Don't make that mistake with movers. These are the people responsible for the care and transport of cherished possessions and important business assets. It's worth a little extra time to find a company that comes highly recommended. Use a reputable review site to see what other people are saying about a moving company.

3. Get Multiple Quotes

The price shouldn't be the only factor in making a final decision, but it can certainly help narrow down the list. It's important to look at each estimate, in writing, and determine what's included. Some companies will include comprehensive coverage as part of the quote, while others might ask customers to buy separate insurance. Without full value protection, replacement could pay out as little as $0.60 per pound -- nowhere near the actual value of any broken or missing items.

4. Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Before handing over things of material value, ask a lot of questions. Does the moving company use day labor? Do they perform background checks on employees? How long have they been in business? Is there a guarantee that everything will be delivered on time? These are just a few of the questions to get answered before making a final decision about a New York moving company.