When you're planning a move, it's important to choose the right moving company. There are a lot of questions you should ask to make sure you're getting the best possible service. Here are some of the top questions to ask when choosing a moving company:
Is the company licensed through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)? This is important because it means the company is regulated and has to follow certain safety standards. Also ask for their MC#, DOT#, INSC and SCPSC/ORS#.
Is the company a broker or carrier? A broker just arranges moves, while a carrier actually performs the move. You'll want to know whether the company will be doing the physical work of moving your belongings or if they're just arranging it. While it can be slightly more costly, most people prefer to work with a carrier rather than a broker. A carrier has a higher degree of personal accountability for your move and belongings than a broker.
What insurance coverage does the company provide? Make sure you're aware of what insurance the company has in case something goes wrong during the move. If the company doesn't have insurance, they aren't operating legally and you should choose a different company.
What are the hidden fees? Most moving companies will charge extra for things like fuel, service charge, materials or stairs, so be sure to ask about all the potential charges before you sign a contract.
How are prices calculated? Moving prices can be calculated based on things like weight, distance, and time. Be sure you understand how the company calculates their prices so there are no surprises later on.
Does the company guarantee delivery dates? Find out if the company guarantees their delivery dates or if they're just estimates.
How are loss and damage claims handled? If something goes wrong during the move, you'll want to know how the company handles claims.
Asking these questions of any potential moving company you might consider using will help you weed out the good companies from the less reputable companies. When you are planning a move, whether local or long distance, you want to know that the moving company you're working with is top-notch and has the necessary credentials to handle your move in a professional manner. Asking these questions will help you judge if a potential mover is the right one.
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