20 Tips: How to Hire a Long Distance Moving Company

20 Ways to Guarantee You Choose the Right Movers

If you're hiring a Auburn Hills long distance moving company, it may feel intimidating. However, there are a few steps to ensure you are making the right decision for what you need. You can simplify by asking 4 very important questions and following some practical advice when choosing your mover.

 

Ask every long distance moving company you interview these four critical questions prior to hiring them:

• Is the long distance moving company asking you for an upfront payment prior to your move?
• Does the long distance moving company have a brick and mortar location (and not just a PO Box) on its website?
• Does the company include licensing info on its website, such as their DOT number?
• What is the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and are they certified with the American Moving and Storage Association?

If the answer to any question above is no, then you could be dealing with a “rogue mover”, or be falling victim to another type of scam.

The following is a summary of the steps to take to be certain you make an informed move when deciding between moving companies.

Where to start

• Start your search for a long distance moving company by asking your friends, family members, and business contacts] about Auburn Hills movers they’ve used and liked.
• Contact a real estate agent you trust to find a minimum of 3 moving companies that have real, physical offices in Auburn Hills.
• If you are using a phone book, remember—just because a long-distance mover has a large ad does not necessarily mean it is reputable.
• Once you’ve made a list of prospects, contact the companies via phone to get the full company name and “doing business as” names, contact information, and DOT / MC license numbers.
• Check out the the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website, and search for the company using the DOT and MC license numbers to see safety information, any orders to cease operation, licensing, and other information. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer groups in Auburn Hills or Michigan.

Getting estimates

 

• You need to set up either an in-home or virtual estimate, which should be provided at no cost. An established long distance moving company WILL NOT give you a quote via a phone call, or without reviewing your belongings, house, and transportation logistics.
• Don’t rely on an estimate provided sight-unseen over the phone or over the Internet. When moving across state lines, your charge is based on how heavy your items are, and the distance between your old and new location. You are better off meeting in person with the mover’s representative to make sure that you both understand the scope of the work.
• During a virtual assessment, be sure to show the assessor everything that needs to be moved. Don’t forget about possessions in the basement, or the large furnishings you’ve you may have sent away for repairs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions either. The representative should also ask you questions – about your future residence, the timing of your move, and so on.
• Request information on “valuation” packages. Valuation provides protection from breakage to your items. The valuation package you choose determines the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and the maximum liability of the mover. The liability of a mover for breakage is based upon the mover’s fees, as well as federal laws and regulations, and has certain constraints and exclusions. Valuation is not assurance; it is simply a price-based level of mover's obligation.
• Be wary of quotes that are substantially lower than the rest. "Low-ball" price quotes could result in poor service, or they could be an indication of a mover who plans to "increase" the price in a "scam" moving ploy. Some "dishonest" movers are known to take household goods "captive" and demand exorbitant fees before returning the possessions.

Go with a name you know

• There are a lot of quality reputable van lines in Auburn Hills to choose from. If you are unfamiliar with a particular long distance moving company, and you have no referrals from friends or business partners, be very careful! Don’t be swayed by a low price from an unknown firm; remember, you are entrusting your mover with almost all of your personal possessions.
• If you're looking to hire a moving company, make sure to consider how attentive your point of contact is. Can you trust he or she will be there to help you through planning your move? Do they provide additional support resources such as an additional support representative?
• If you need to hire a moving service, it's a good idea to visit the mover’s headquarters. This will give you a sense of their level of quality and professionalism. It's essential to select a service provider that meets your expectations.
• Long distance moving companies are required by law to provide you with a digital copy, or make it available on their website, “Your Rights and Responsibilities.” In this brochure, the “110 percent rule” is explained. The rule states that under a non-binding agreement, the mover cannot require you to pay more than the amount of the original estimate, plus an additional ten percent, at the time of delivery. You are obligated to pay any remaining charges over the 110% amount within 30 days.

Timing is important

• Make arrangements for your move well in advance – at least four to six weeks before the moving date. If you can, try not to move during “peak” times.
• Year-round, the last each month is a busy time for movers, because of the expiration of leases and preferred closing dates.
• In the summer – May to mid-September, when children are on summer vacation, are “peak season” for movers. Schedule summer moves as far in advance as you can…and again, try to stay away from month-end moving dates. Peak periods moves should be planned at least six to eight weeks in advance to ensure the dates you need are available.

If you fall victim

Unfortunately, some consumers will fall victim to malignant transportation providers this year. Fortunately, there is a group called MoveSaver available to help. Those who feel they may have been cheated should contact MoveRescue at 800-832-1773. Homeowners who call this number will talk to a consultant who will examine the situation and direct the caller through the appropriate procedures. MoveRescue, which is supported by a group of law offices throughout the United States, and backed by leading van lines, serves as a central source for people who need legal support or fraud awareness resources. In some cases, MoveRescue even offers “Shipment Rescue” for items being held by rogue movers.

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