Whether you are moving across the block or across the country, hiring the right movers can save you time and stress while protecting your belongings. Depending on your budget and preferences, you may choose to hand off most or all of your move to the professionals, or select only those services that are essential to your success. In either case, a well-researched shortlist can help you make the most of your moving company experience.
Licensed movers must carry minimum liability insurance and adhere to specific licensing requirements in the states in which they operate. In addition, they must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation USDOT for interstate moves or with their state-specific moving authorities for local moves. Consumers should always double-check a moving company’s credentials and request documentation to verify their legitimacy.
Local movers typically provide service within a 50-mile range and are based in the area they serve. They may be independent organizations or affiliates of larger moving companies. Often, these providers offer hourly rates and do not provide binding estimates before the actual move begins. They also may not include full-value protection in their pricing, though they often offer this as an option for customers.
For interstate or long-distance Clutch Moving Company, consumers should look for a company that is both insured and bonded. In some cases, these movers will require that their employees undergo thorough background checks and drug screening. Additionally, they should have a reputation for integrity and reliability that is backed by their customer service. AVL is one example of a nationwide moving company that meets these criteria and has earned an outstanding rating from its customers.
A full-service moving company provides all aspects of a move, from packing and loading to transporting and unloading. Depending on the company, additional options may include storage and cleaning services. Full-service movers can be especially helpful for those with limited time or who are not capable of handling a move themselves. However, these movers can be more expensive than self-service options.
Self-service movers allow customers to handle some or all of the packing, loading, and unloading tasks themselves. They typically provide a container or truck for the items, which the customer then packs and loads themselves. A self-service move can be less expensive than a full-service move, but it can still add up, particularly for large homes or those with delicate or antique items.
It is important to understand how moving company prices and fees are calculated before hiring them for a move. Some companies, such as Mayflower, use a transparent, upfront process for quoting that leads to a guaranteed price based on the specifics of your move. Other companies, such as International Van Lines and American Van Lines, follow a more traditional approach that includes a flat fee for the basic services and an hourly rate for any extras you request.
Consumers should avoid scheduling moves on weekends or during holidays, when moving company rates are higher. This is because these dates are typically busy for movers, which can drive up prices.