The Heavy Lifting: Tips for Hiring Movers

You’ve found your home, negotiated the deal, and secured your mortgage. You’re moving toward closing day, so it’s time to schedule your movers. Don’t just pick the first ones that show up at the top of an online search. After all, they will be in your house handling your personal stuff! Use these tips for hiring your movers.

Resist Doing It Yourself

Yes, it may seem like you could save big money getting some friends or that crazy brother-in-law who works for beer to help you move. Avoid this decision. Buying a home and moving is already fraught with stress. Being responsible for moving every item you own is bound to make it worse. Not to mention, more things will undoubtedly get broken.

Do Your Research

See if friends and neighbors who have moved recently would recommend their movers. Read the reviews of movers online to make sure there aren’t glaring red flags that you want to avoid. Narrow it down to a handful and visit their websites to see how long they’ve been in business and other ways they ensure they are dependable and trustworthy.

Ask for Quotes

Reach out to three or four companies, explain what you need moved and your timeline, and ask for them to send you a binding quote. Some will want to visit your home, while others will be happy to work over the phone. Give them plenty of time to get it together, especially if you’re moving during the busy months.

Only Work With Insurance-Covered Movers

Clearly note how the company handles things that may go wrong. Do they replace items they break or damage? What about if they damage the home? How is it handled if one of the movers gets hurt while in your employ? If the quote doesn’t cover these scenarios, ask about them and get answers in writing.

Understand Extra Fees

Will that large piano or heavy dining room table add costs to your move? Reading the fine print of the contract and asking questions before booking your movers decreases the chances of nasty surprises on moving day.

Sign the Contract

Once you settle on the moving company and price, sign and send in your contract. Get confirmation they received it and set a date and time for them to be at your home.

Follow Up on Time and Date

Mistakes can happen, and the last thing you need is to be standing there on moving day without a moving company in sight. Three days before your move, call or email to confirm they still have you on the books at the day and time you had agreed upon. This will alleviate the stress of worrying about no-shows.

Choosing a moving company can be confusing because there are plenty to choose from at first glance. Narrow them down by doing your research, and read the contracts carefully so you aren’t surprised by the service or cost in the end. Happy moving day!