When moving to a new home, choosing the right moving company is important. A simple online search for a moving company will yield hundreds of results. We’re sure most are reputable, but finding the right one – with the right kind of equipment and services – is something that requires a personal touch.
Checking customer feedback doesn’t paint a complete picture in most cases; asking the right questions usually fills in the blanks. Here are some of the things you should ask before hiring a moving company in Washington, DC:
- Do they have insurance? Generally, you should never hire a company that doesn’t have insurance because moving your belongings uninsured is risky. If your choices are limited, consider adding a third-party supplemental moving insurance.
- How long have they been in the business? A good track record under the same business name shows their capacity to deliver on their promises. After all, you will want to hire movers in Sterling, VA, that consistently transport their clients’ belongings without incident – no amount of insurance will replace a unique artwork or a family heirloom.
- Are they licensed? Specifically, ask for their USDOT Number, which is a unique license number assigned to commercial vehicle owners. This is especially important if you’re moving to another state.
- Do they have online reviews? In addition to the aforementioned customer feedback, check the company’s standing with the BBB (Better Business Bureau). Also check reviews in social media sites like Yelp, Citysearch and Trustlink.
- What do their rates really cover? Don’t be lured by “low” rates. Ask for a breakdown and read the website fine print. Related questions that you can ask:
- Are fuel costs and incidentals included?
- Does protective material cost extra?
- Will you be charged for overtime?
- Would they give you a better rate if you moved on a different day?
- What are their policies on delivery time frames? This is especially important if you’re moving out of state. Inquire about their consolidation policies. Consolidation is when your belongings are combined with other clients’, which are then shipped together. This saves money, but will take significantly longer. The company should also be upfront with explaining their policies on delivery windows (as opposed to an exact delivery date) so you can make preparations – like hiring temporary storage in Sterling, VA – in case of delay.
If you would like to know more about what makes a reliable and trusted moving company, call Around Town Movers today at (703) 682-5922 or use our contact form.
