There are good and bad things about moving to a new place or state. Getting everything organized, packing up your things, and figuring out how to move everything can seem like an impossible job. It can be a lot easier if you hire a professional moving company, especially long distance movers. But it’s important to know what to look for in a reputable moving company and how to hire one before you hire one.
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1. Do Your Research
The first step in hiring long distance movers is researching companies. A simple online search for Chicago long distance movers will give you a list of potential candidates. While the internet offers a lot of options, it’s important to dig deeper. Check out Google, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, and other well-known sites for reviews and scores. Testimonials from previous customers can give you insight into the company’s reliability, professionalism, and customer service. Make sure the company you are considering is licensed and insured. You can check this through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for long-distance moving companies.
2. Get Multiple Estimates
Once you’ve narrowed down a few companies, request estimates. It’s always a good idea to get at least three quotes from different movers. Be wary of significantly low estimates, as they may indicate hidden fees or subpar services. One way a good moving company will give you a price is by asking how heavy your things are or how far they need to be moved. Most companies will offer either an in-home or virtual estimate, which will give them a better idea of the scope of the move.
Make sure the estimates are in writing, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if something doesn’t seem clear. This will help you avoid unexpected costs later on.
3. Understand the Services Offered
There are different kinds of moving companies, and it’s important to know exactly what your price covers. There are a lot of different services that long distance movers might offer, such as full packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, and even short-term storage. Before you hire a moving company, make sure they know about any special services you might need, like helping you move heavy furniture or valuable items.
If they do things like take apart and reassemble furniture, they might charge extra. Make sure you ask about any extra costs. You can avoid being shocked by extra fees when the bill comes by knowing what is included in your quote.
4. Check for Insurance and Licensing
When hiring long distance movers, it’s essential to ensure that they are licensed and insured. Getting moving insurance covers your things in case they get lost or broken during the move. Most professional moving companies, including, offer basic liability insurance, but this may not cover the full value of your items. You might want to ask about other coverage choices, like full-value protection, which can give you more protection.
You can verify a moving company’s license through the FMCSA’s website, where all interstate movers are required to be registered. If the company is unwilling to provide proof of insurance or licensing, it’s best to look elsewhere.
5. Create a Moving Plan
Once you’ve chosen the right movers, work with them to create a moving plan. This includes confirming the move date, understanding the timeline for packing and delivery, and addressing any specific needs or requests. For example, if you need to store your items temporarily before unloading, ensure this is clearly stated in the plan. Communication is key, so make sure you are on the same page as the moving company about every detail.
6. Prepare for Moving Day
Preparation is crucial when it comes to the moving day. Start by decluttering your home, getting rid of anything you no longer need or want to take. The fewer items the movers have to transport, the easier and more affordable the move will be.
Label your boxes clearly to make unpacking more efficient, and create an inventory list. This will also help ensure that nothing gets lost or misplaced during the move. On the big day, be available to supervise the process and answer any last-minute questions from the movers.
7. Final Check and Payment
Before finalizing the move, make sure that the company delivers all of your belongings and that everything is in good condition. If there are any damages, document them and report them to the company immediately.
Most long distance movers will require payment upon delivery, so be prepared to settle the bill once your items have arrived at your new home. Some companies may offer different payment options, so be sure to ask about this ahead of time.
Conclusion
There is a lot less stress in long-distance moving if you hire the right moving company. You can make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible by doing a lot of research, getting quotes, and learning about the services that are available. You can get help from long distance movers, but you need to pick a company that fits your wants and your budget. Your move can be an exciting new part of your life if you plan it well and talk to the people involved.
