If you’re moving to a new home, hiring reliable local movers in your area is essential. However, finding a reputable company isn’t easy.
Make sure you ask for in-home estimates from Garden City movers before choosing one. It will help you get accurate estimates and avoid being overcharged. Also, request references and ask them about their experience with each mover.
Check Their Credentials
When choosing a moving company, you need to make sure they are licensed and insured. If you have any doubts, call their insurance provider and ask for a copy of their policy. If they can’t provide you with the proof of coverage, it is best not to work with them.
Also, check whether they are members of the movers’ association in your area. This is an excellent way to determine if a company has integrity and follows industry standards.
If you’re planning an interstate move, it is important that the movers are federally licensed. The FMCSA website has a handy search tool that lets you verify the mover’s USDOT number, motor carrier (MC) number and more. Having this information in hand can save you from being the next victim of a moving scam that ends up on the 6 o’clock news. Using an unlicensed mover can be costly for you and for the company.
Ask for References
While it may seem like a hassle, checking a movers reputation is crucial to making the right choice. You can do this by searching for online reviews and asking family and friends for recommendations. You can also check whether a moving company has a USDOT number and offers full value protection or Released Value Protection as part of their insurance policy.
All interstate movers must be registered with FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This unique number allows you to find information about a mover’s history, including crash investigations, safety ratings, unsafe driving incidents, and more.
When you’re checking a mover’s reputation, it’s important to remember that there’s no such thing as a perfect moving experience. Even the best movers can make mistakes. Look for movers with a variety of customer satisfaction stories, and avoid those with only glowing testimonials. This could be a red flag that the movers are hiding something.
Check for Scams
Scams are one of the most common obstacles people run into when moving. They can take the form of bogus home repairs or overcharging for services. If you spot any red flags, it’s best to avoid the company altogether and find another that has your best interests in mind.
Be wary of movers that ask you to pay a large deposit upfront. Reputable companies will only accept payment upon delivery of your belongings.
Also, make sure the movers you hire have a DOT number for interstate moves, Michael says. Thirty-three states require movers to have a federal DOT number to transport goods across state lines.
You can also check a mover’s credentials by visiting their office or checking online. Beware of movers that offer estimates over the phone or internet without sending representatives to scope out your property, Hutt says. It’s always better to get at least three written in-home estimates, he adds. Also, beware of movers that use a van or truck rented from a third party—a professional moving company will own its equipment.
Ask About Insurance and License
Licensed movers have to carry multiple levels of insurance including general liability, cargo, workers’ compensation and commercial auto. They also need to have a certificate of insurance (COI) which lists their different types of insurance policies in one easy-to-read document. COIs are especially important in New York City because many buildings will only allow movers into the building if they have a COI and the proper insurance coverage for moving items up and down stairs or through tight corridors.
All licensed movers have a USDOT number which you can use to search their operating status on the FMCSA website. Reputable movers will list their USDOT number on their website or will provide it upon request so you can research them for yourself. It only takes 10 minutes and can make all the difference in your move experience. It will protect you against unlicensed movers that do not meet minimum requirements like safety, financial responsibility and regulatory compliance.
