What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Moving Company?

Whether you are planning to move to a new city or country, consider hiring a long distance moving company in Sonoma County. An experienced moving company can help you plan your move. They can provide you with guidance every step of the way. A mover’s team consists of seasoned professionals trained to safely handle fragile items. So, when you hire a professional moving company, you have peace of mind that comes with knowing your items are in safe hands.

Every mover isn’t worthy of your trust. Many moving companies make tall claims, but do not have what it takes to deliver the goods. It is therefore important that you do not take movers’ words at face value and do your research to determine if your preferred mover is worth serious consideration.

Here are some things to consider when selecting a moving company in Sonoma County.

Services Offered

When assessing a moving company, consider the services offered. Some movers offer basic services, while others provide additional services. If you need help with packing and unpacking your items or assembling and disassembling your heavy furniture, look for a moving company that offers these services. To get the complete list of services offered by a mover, go to their website or call their office. Communicate your needs to the mover you are considering helping them determine which services to include in your service package.

Additional Services Offered by Moving Companies

Some additional services offered by moving companies include storage services, vehicle transportation services, and furniture assembling and disassembling services. Some moving companies provide moving supplies including different types of moving boxes, box tape, and stretch wrap to save their customers the hassle of finding durable boxes and other packing supplies.

Licensing and Insurance   

Ensure that the moving company you are considering has a valid license and is insured. Do not hesitate to ask for a copy of license and insurance and verify them if required. Remember if you hire an uninsured moving company and someone on the mover’s crew gets hurt while working on your property, you may be forced to foot the bill for the injured person’s treatment and rehabilitation. On the contrary, if someone on an insured mover’s team meets an accident and sustains an injury while working on a customer’s property, the mover’s insurer takes care of the claim.

Also read-Reasons Why You Should Hire Licensed Movers

How to Check a Mover’s License?

Moving companies are required to be registered with the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT). Typically, movers will display their USDOT number on their website or share it with their customers upon request. To check a mover’s license, enter their USDOT number into the FMCSA website’s search tool. Once the tool processes your request, it will provide you with important information about the company, including its registration status, fleet size, and compliance details. In the Safety Rating Data section, make sure to verify that the mover is labeled as “Authorized for HHG” (Household Goods), indicating that they hold a valid license for residential moves.

Reputation

Before hiring a Sonoma County long distance moving company to handle your move, check its online and offline reputation. Make sure the company has a proven track record of success and is equipped to ensure a hassle-free moving experience.

How to Check a Moving Company’s Online Reputation?

To check a mover’s online reputation, go to their accounts on popular social media sites. See what people are talking about them and if their customers are satisfied with their services. Check the business’s BBB rating and head to trusted independent third-party review sites to read customer testimonials.

How to Assess a Mover’s Offline Reputation?

Talk to your friends, colleagues and family members who have used the service in the past. How was their experience? Do they recommend the company? Also, consider interviewing the mover’s references.

Pricing

Get estimates from at least three providers. When comparing two quotes, consider every cost element. If you have questions about a cost element, do not hesitate to get back to the provider. Ask if there are any other costs involved than the ones mentioned in quotes. Pricing is an important factor to consider, but do not make a decision solely on the basis of it. More often than not providers with unrealistically low bids are amateurs ill-equipped to manage moves.

Experience

Look for a mover with at least five years of experience of managing both local and interstate moves. It’s a reasonable assumption that the longer a mover has been in business, the better equipped they are to manage moves. An experienced mover knows what can go wrong during a move and plans well in advance to ensure smooth sailing.

Equipment and Fleet

Check whether the moving company possesses a fleet of well-maintained trucks and the essential equipment for managing long-distance relocations. A well-equipped team can take care of all moving tasks in a more efficient manner for a hassle-free move.

Memberships and Affiliations

Consider moving companies that are members of respected national industry associations. To become a member of a reputable industry body, movers must meet certain standards and prove their expertise. Members are expected to commit to lifelong learning and should make the effort to stay on top of emerging industry trends.

Some Red Flags to Look out for

Most trustworthy moving companies typically do not request a cash deposit prior to the move. If the moving company you are considering puts pressure on you for an upfront payment, walk away! After requesting an estimate, assess the mover’s professionalism. Do they show up late to meetings, appear uncertain about their capabilities, or are unable to answer your questions? If so, consider another moving company.

Schultz Brothers Van & Storage has been helping businesses and individuals plan interstate and international moves for more than 100 years. Our moving experts plan moves down to the last detail. To request a free estimate, call (707) 546-1616.