Reputable Moving Companies

A moving company is a company that assists companies and individuals to relocate their goods and personal belongings from one location to another. They utilize various forms of transportation based on the types of items transported. Some companies also assist their customers with packaging, loading and storage of these articles. Companies that are more affluent offer DIY training for customers who choose to rent moving equipment to do the relocation themselves. There are many moving companies available. These companies advertise in hardware industry magazines, newspapers and on the internet or trough any medium to capture their client’s eye.

How to Choose a Moving Company

Moving companies offer services to their clients for a fee. Since an exchange of money involved, individuals must be very meticulous when choosing their moving company. Although not cast in stone, here are some tips that can help you to choose a moving company that suits your need.

• Consultation: Not all individuals like the idea of letting people know when they are moving. However, it is highly recommended that before choosing a moving company to seek the advice of friends and well-wishers on the best moving solutions available in your area. These friends can tell you of their personal experiences and of the professionalism of each company. Individuals can also check with their local business bureau and consumer affairs organization and get an insight of the company’s operation.
• Certification: It is advisable for clients to choose moving companies that are certified by the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). Membership to AMSA is voluntary, but it is an association of Movers and Van Line companies that have come together to establish standards for the industry. Their code ensures complete disclosure of moving information to their customers including written estimates of charges, timely delivery of service and prompt response to complaints. They have also established an agreement to arbitrate disputes up to $5000 involving loss or damages during moving.
• Make a list of Movers: Shop around and compile a list of moving companies. Then at least six weeks before you move, ask them to come in and give an assessment of your moving needs and the estimated cost. Never take an estimate just by word of mouth. Only take written estimates with detailed explanation of how they arrive at the final cost. They must also tell you their method of pickup and delivery, and the type of protection, if any, they offer.
• Interstate and International Moving: Find out what affiliations the company has established to facilitate international and interstate moving. They must be able to give you a description of the custom laws and other taxes that will affect your relocation.
• Bill of Rights: Any reputable moving company has a consumer booklet to present to their clients. This is a book entitled” Your rights and Responsibilities When You Move”. It explains the mover’s responsibilities to the client and vice versa. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration also mandates the distribution of this booklet as guidelines to movers.

How to Avoid a Swindler

Moving is a stressful encounter. The last thing anyone needs when moving is for someone to run off with his or her stuff. Individuals must seek as much information about the companies they propose to use when moving. Sales representatives must be able to furnish you with information such as the company’s name, address, how long they have been in business, DOT and MC license numbers, company’s website and email address.

One other basic rule is that if anyone else turns up other than the workers of the moving contracted company, then terminate the contact immediately. Chances are that they have siphoned off your information to third parties. For online payments, use a popular financial transaction verification tools to verify the transaction.

Some of the major reputable moving companies are:

• U haul
• Allied Van Lines
• Mayflower Moving Company
• United Van Lines