Choosing Local Movers

Obviously, you want the best local movers possible for your upcoming move. Although there are many outstanding moving companies, there are also some bad companies. Annually, the Better Business Bureau receives literally thousands of complaints regarding moves.

The majority of the complaints have to do with lost, damaged, or destroyed goods. However, other complaints include overcharging, not showing up as scheduled, and even holding the customer’s belongings hostage until the agreed upon cost of the move is paid in full. To avoid any of these scenarios, it is essential that you know how to distinguish good local movers from bad ones.

• Careful Screening – Dig deep to find out if the local moving companies on your short list adhere to strict federal standards. Although local movers are only required to follow individual state laws as opposed to federal laws, superior companies will do both. In addition, professional companies will be in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.
• Written Estimates – A reputable moving company will have no problem sending a representative to your home to complete an assessment as to the goods being moved. Therefore, if a company refuses to do this and only offers an over-the-phone estimate, you need to consider this a major red flag.
• Insurance Coverage – By law, local moving companies are required to assume liability for the value of the goods being transported. An upstanding company will gladly show you proof of insurance coverage, whereas a questionable company will not. However, even when proof of coverage is provided, you should always contact the insurance provider to confirm the information provided.
• Employees versus Temporary or Seasonal Workers – You never want to hire a moving company that uses temporary or seasonal workers. Instead, the movers should be actual employees. The difference is that as employees, the moving crew is properly trained. Employees take great pride in the work performed and, therefore, go out of their way to ensure the customer’s completely satisfaction. With temporary or seasonal workers, only a brief introduction to moving is provided. This increases the risk of your goods being lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed.

• Large Upfront Deposit – Although a reputable moving company may ask for a nominal upfront deposit, most do not. Therefore, if local movers demand that you pay a significant deposit or state that they only accept payment in cash, see this as the warning sign that it is.