Questions to Ask Moving Companies

When you’re ready to talk with movers about your upcoming move, you need to be prepared for the conversation. Part of your preparation should entail a ready list of questions for moving companies who want to earn your business. The questions below will kickstart the conversation and ensure you get the answers to pick the right mover.

Do you work for the mover or are you a broker?

Brokers can match customers with moving companies. But keep in mind that a broker can’t give you a binding estimate and a broker isn’t responsible for loss or damage.

Do you give binding quotes?

A mover may give a binding, or “not to exceed” quote upon reviewing your items in person. Brokers typically don’t give binding quotes. If a mover or broker attempts to give you a binding quote over the phone, don’t accept it. Make sure your possessions are inspected in person.

Does my quote include extra charges?

If any of these issues below apply to your move, you may face additional charges:

• Stair charges
• Long carry charges
• Appliance charges
• Parking charges
• Storage charges
• Fuel charges
• Charges for awkward or extremely heavy items. Ask your movers if they have equipment to handle such items.
• Will my items be transferred?

In long distance moves, your items may be transferred to another truck. This extra handling increases the chances of damages.

What forms of payment do you accept and on what terms?

Don’t hire movers if they only accept cash. Make sure you and the movers are in agreement on the amount due upon delivery versus the deposit amount, and whether your deposit is refundable.

What type of insurance is included in your quote? Can I get more insurance?

Basic coverage is 60 cents per pound but your moving company may offer an upgrade. You can also work with third-party insurance providers to cover the move.

What is the process for damaged or broken items? Who’s responsible?

Make sure you understand what your moving company is responsible for in terms of broken items. Ask about the mover’s reimbursement policy.

ref:  http://www.realtor.com/advice/move/questions-ask-moving-companies/

By:  Realtor.com Team

Thanks for visiting.  Be sure to check my web site for current listings.

Ken Gordon Real Estate

Ken Gordon

Ken Gordon Real Estate

RE/MAX Interactive Realty

Start Planning Your Next Move Now

When moving season arrives, thousands of people across the country pack up their belongings and moving to a new home. Whether it’s from one apartment to another, kids headed off to college or families transitioning into a new home, moving can be an incredibly taxing and time-consuming ordeal.

Fortunately for those on the move, there are ways to plan ahead and alleviate some of the stress associated with the process of relocating.

Did you know there’s a busy season in the moving industry? The period from Memorial Day to Labor Day is the busiest time for movers and and premium accommodations fill up fast. It’s an incredibly competitive industry, making it is important to plan head, compare quotes, and book early in order to get the best rate and service possible. If you’re planning a move during this timeframe, get started early to find a moving company and secure the right price for your next move.

Your destination and living situation plays a big part in how to plan your move. For smaller moves across town, simply renting a truck for a day or two can be a practical solution. Longer moves, especially for families, involve more logistics and, as such, can be more complicated. In those cases, hiring a full-fledged team of professional movers to assist in the packing and unpacking process is ideal. Either way, it doesn’t hurt to explore all of your options and get quotes from both truck rental agencies and professional moving companies.

Another moving solution that’s become quite popular in recent years is a portable storage container or moving pod. Containers can be a time and money-saving option. The moving container is delivered to your front door and you’re in charge of packing your belongings. When you’re finished, the moving company will pick up the moving container and will either move your belongings or store your moving pod until you are ready to ship.

ref: http://www.realtor.com/advice/move/start-planning-next-move-now/  By: Neal Leitereg

Thanks for visiting.  Be sure to check my web site for current listings.

www.kengordonrealestate.com

Ken Gordon

Ken Gordon Real Estate

RE/MAX Interactive Realty

321-684-9900