Your Step-By-Step Guide to Finding, Hiring, and Working with Movers
From packing your belongings to transporting them safely, the entire process of moving can be overwhelming. Hiring professional movers in Sonoma County can help make this process faster and less stressful.
We’ve put together this guide to help you simplify the moving process by providing a step-by-step approach to finding, hiring, and working with professional movers. By preparing well in advance, you’ll have all the information you need to make your move as stress-free as possible.
Step 1: Assess Your Moving Needs
Before you start looking for movers, it’s essential to understand your moving needs. Consider the following questions:
What to Ask Yourself
How far are you moving?
What is the size of your move (number of rooms, amount of furniture)?
Do you have any special items that require extra care (pianos, antiques, etc.)?
What is your budget for the move?
Having clear answers to these questions will help you narrow down your options and find a moving company that can meet your specific needs.
Step 2: Research Moving Companies
With a clear understanding of your moving needs, it’s time to research moving companies. Here are some steps to help you find reliable movers:
Check Online Reviews
Visit review websites like Yelp to read customer feedback. Look for patterns in the reviews to gauge the reliability and professionalism of each company and consider how the company responds to both negative and positive reviews
Verify Credentials
It’s crucial to ensure the moving companies you’re considering are licensed and insured for both your protection and theirs. In the U.S., interstate movers should have a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Get Multiple Quotes
Request quotes from at least two different moving companies. This will give you a better idea of the average cost and help you identify any outliers. Make sure the quotes are detailed and include any potential fees.
Too Good to Be True
During your research be careful of offers that are too good to be true. In some cases, companies may offer a lowball rate which can then be inflated with hidden fees or additional charges.
Step 3: Ask the Right Questions
Once you have a shortlist of potential movers, it’s time to ask the critical questions. How each company answers will help you compare their services and customer service and direct you in choosing the best one for your move.
Here are some questions to ask:
What to Ask Your Mover
How long has your company been in business?
Can you provide references from recent customers?
What types of insurance do you offer?
Do you have experience with my specific type of move (long-distance, specialty items, etc.)?
What is your policy on delays and cancellations?
Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
Step 4: Review the Contract Carefully
Before signing any contracts, always review them thoroughly. Ensure that all the details discussed, including costs, services, and timelines, are clearly outlined. Pay attention to the fine print and ask for clarification on anything you’re unsure about. It’s crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities as well as those of the moving company before signing any legal documents.
Step 5: Prepare for Moving Day
With the movers booked, it’s time to prepare for moving day. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
Declutter
Moving is an excellent opportunity to donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer need. This will reduce the volume of items to be moved and potentially lower your moving costs.
Pack Strategically
Start packing early. Label boxes clearly with their contents and the room they belong to. This will make unpacking much easier. For fragile items, use plenty of padding and mark their boxes clearly as “fragile.”
Create an Inventory
Make a detailed inventory of all the items you’re moving. Though a bit tedious at first, this will help you keep track of your belongings and ensure nothing gets lost during the move. It’s also useful in case of damage or loss for insurance purposes.
Step 6: Moving Day
On moving day, there are several things you can do to ensure everything goes smoothly:
Be Available
Make sure you’re available to answer any questions the movers might have. If you can’t be there, designate a trusted person to oversee the process.
Final Walkthrough
Before the movers leave your old home, do a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind. Every room, cupboard, drawer, appliance, and closet should be inspected before you leave.
Keep Essentials with You
Pack a bag with essentials such as toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any valuables to keep with you during the move.
Step 7: Unpacking and Settling In
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, the process of unpacking and settling in begins. Here’s how to make it more manageable:
Unpack Systematically
Start with the essentials and gradually work your way through the rest of the boxes. Focus on one room at a time.
Check for Damage
As you unpack, check your items for any damage that may have occurred during the move. If you find any issues, document them and contact the moving company promptly.
Leave a Review
Once you’re settled in, take the time to leave a review of your moving company. Your feedback can help others make informed decisions and provide valuable input for the movers.
A Step for Every Moving Stage
Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following this step-by-step guide, you can find, hire, and work with professional movers who will make your relocation smooth and efficient. From assessing your moving needs to unpacking in your new home, each step is designed to ensure a successful move.
Get Moving with Schultz Bros. Van & Storage
Ready to make your move? Contact Schultz Bros. Van & Storage today for a free quote and let our team of experienced movers handle the heavy lifting.
With our reliable and professional service, you can look forward to a stress-free moving experience. Just call (707)546-1616 to get started.
