Are you getting ready to move? Sitting on the couch wondering where to begin and how you will ever fit your life into boxes and a truck in such a short time? And then give up and get a glass of wine and re-watch Downton Abbey? No, just me? Haha. Procrastinating definitely doesn’t help! I know, I’ve moved 5 times in the last 7 years! Just writing that makes me tired. But I digress. Tackling moving is daunting, but I am here to let you know that little steps each day make a big difference! And if finding a moving company in Your Foothill Community is on your to-do list, worry not because your guide is here! Moving from Claremont to Upland? Or from Rancho Cucamonga all the way to Pasadena? Either way, you’re going to need to fill a truck with all of your belongings and likely hire people to handle your most prized possessions. If that makes you nervous (who wouldn’t be?!) then check out this video to help you narrow down your choices of moving company. And if you’re moving into or out of the Foothill Communities, I am here to help with any questions you might have. Give me a call or text anytime at 909-833-1631. I am here for you!
Today, I’m going to show you how to choose a moving company.
I’ve moved with my family 5 times in the last 7 years, so I like to think I know a little bit about hiring moving companies!
The moral of the story is… Always do your homework!
The Better Business Bureau processes thousands of moving company complaints each year related to overcharging, theft, damage to property, and missing items.
Here are 3 things to do before you choose your moving company.
1 – Screen, Screen, Screen!
Before trusting a complete stranger to handle the treasured armoire you inherited from your grandmother, do your homework.
Screen every mover for quality and trustworthiness.
Look them all up on sites like Yelp, Google, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau.
If they have any negative reviews or major complaints, move on.
2 – Get an estimate (in writing)
Moving companies are notorious for overcharging.
To avoid any discrepancies before the final bill arrives, make sure to get an accurate quote in writing.
For accuracy, be honest, and tell them how many rooms you have, the square feet of the home. If you’re a minimalist, tell them. If you’re a packrat, tell them.
For assurance, get the estimate in writing. Sometimes, moving companies offer attractive, low quotes by silently charging you separately for other nominal services. But if you get everything in writing, you’ll be able to see the fine print and compare apples to apples when deciding among other companies.
3 – Check the insurance policies
Insurance is what will allow you to file a claim against the moving company if something is lost, damaged, or stolen.
Insurance is required in most jurisdictions, but it’s up to you to confirm the liability amounts. So make sure that you do!
If you’re looking for a good moving company, I have lots of great referrals!
I also have one more big important tip- we had a box or two misplaced in one move years ago. Even though I knew what was missing (my whole set of pots & pans!) they would not refund me because we didn’t have a written inventory of how many boxes we had and their contents. I know it seems like a lot of work, but if you can, make a list of what’s inside each box as you pack it. Then the night before the moving truck arrives, count the boxes you have. It will be worth it if something special or expensive goes missing! I’m also thinking if making notes about this seems too difficult (which is why I probably didn’t do it) maybe just make voice notes on your phone recorder app? That way the information is there if you need it but you don’t waste too much time writing things down!
If you’re thinking about making a move, I can help you through the process. Just send me a message or text me at 909-833-1631. No pressure, no sales tactics, just the help and guidance that you need!
Thank you so much for joining me today, I’ll see you in the next episode!!!
