Do you need to hire a moving company? Consider this tips before signing a contract.
What do you need to make the right choice? How to choose someone you can trust to handle the packing and moving of your precious belongings? What it will cost? What is the best way to compare move estimates?
Even if you don’t know when or where you are moving, we recommend to select a mover and get approximate costs. Great way to find good moving companies is to ask friends for referrals. Contact at least three professional moving companies to provide estimates in advance.
But first – Do your homework!
Before meeting with any moving representatives:
– Get rid of items you don’t intend to move, or at least mark or set them aside.
-Know your destination or at least area.
-Set an approximate date for the move.
-Decide whether you want an estimate for packing.
-Determine whether you will need storage, and for how long.
Second – Meet the mover.
Make sure you give each prospective moving company exactly the same information, and ask them the same questions. That way you make a fair assessment of their qualifications and costs. It will also minimize confusion when you are ready to make a choice.
When the representative arrives, ask your questions. In addition to the rates and experience, find out how they handle special items, such as artwork, pianos. Do they provide packing supplies and at what cost? Indicate which items you intend to pack or move yourself and which items will not be moved, such as appliances or furniture you intend to leave or sell. Go through all rooms of the house, including the attic, basement, garage or shed.
Be very specific which service you are considering: moving, packing, or storage.
Find out if the estimate is binding or nonbinding!
In a binding estimate, the total cost is guaranteed based on estimated quantities and specified services.
A non binding estimate is the company’s approximation of the of the final cost, which will be recalculated with the actual weight, actual labour and other figures when available.
Third – Interpret the estimate.
Even the moving companies will have different estimate forms, look for the key information:
Rates for packing and unpacking services. Weight, long distance fees/mileage and their charges. Costs for storage, including weight, cubic feet and length of time. Cost for additional services, insurance cost and coverage details, payment terms.
Importantly – Compare apples to apples.
When estimates are in, you analyze each company’s bottom line and compare following:
weight amounts; packing material amounts, rates for hourly labour, volume, weight and mileage. Are there any free or discounted items, such as packing supplies, storage or mid month rates?
And now you are ready to make a decision.
You can base your choice on the lowest total cost, but also consider:
- Personal referrals or experiences with the company.
- Any discounts offered.
- The company’s professionalism and reputation.
- Your dealings with them: has the representative been responsive, communicative and positive?
And lastly:
Interviewing moving companies and obtaining move estimates are the keys to a smooth move.
Call us today at 416-253-7641 or visit at www.ssonsmoving.com to schedule your free in home estimate. We will move you to your place with a happy face!
