What to Look for in a Moving Company

Moving companies are a type of business that specialize in transporting people’s belongings from one location to another. This can be done with a moving van, or even with shipping containers for long-distance moves. Most movers are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, while others operate independently in each state.

Licensing and accreditation requirements vary from state to state. However, a company that is reputable should be able to provide you with any information you may need regarding their licensing and accreditation. This can include license numbers, registry information and past complaints.

Full service movers typically charge a little more than self-service movers, but you’ll save time and money because they have trained staff who can pack, disassemble furniture and transport your belongings. They also take inventory and plan the move ahead of time, so you can focus on your new home.

They can also help you find and purchase packing materials if you don’t have them. This moving company is a particularly good option if you have fragile items to pack and ship, or if you’re moving into a smaller home.

A moving company’s pricing can vary widely, but getting multiple quotes from several reputable companies will ensure you get the best price for your move. You can also look for reviews on review sites like Yelp or Google to get a feel for what customers think of their experiences with different moving companies.

Insurance – Make sure your moving company is fully insured! This is a great way to protect yourself against the possibility of damage during your move, and it can be purchased from your mover at a premium or from an insurance company.

Disputes – Your moving company is required by law to respond in writing to any complaint you have about their services, and they must resolve your dispute in a timely manner. If you’re dissatisfied with their response, you can take them to small claims court. If you win, they must pay you for any damages or repairs.

Arbitration – Your moving company is required to use an independent arbitration system if you have a dispute. An arbitration is a process of resolving disputes outside the courtroom, in which you and your mover present evidence and arguments to a neutral third party.

The process can take as little as 60 days, or as long as 120 days, depending on your agreement with the movers and how quickly you file a claim. The arbitration decision is legally binding on both parties, and can include payment in full, a compromise settlement or a denial of your claim.

IMRG Interstate Moving and Relocation Group is an interstate broker that connects consumers with a network of reputable movers, including national and local providers. Its expedited quote process results in same- or next-day binding estimates, and its customer support is excellent.

ProMover Certification – A ProMover certification from the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) is a great indicator of a reputable company. The designation requires a moving company to meet certain standards of safety and service.