Questions to Ask a Moving Company Before Hiring

​Moving can be a stressful time, and its vital that you do everything you can to minimize complications on moving day. A lot of decisions need to be made leading up to moving day, all of which can affect how smooth the day goes. The decision that has the largest consequence on your moving day experience is what moving company you hire. There are thousands of moving companies around the country and choosing the right one near you is key. Hiring professionals at a good cost can change your moving day experience from a difficult and stressful one to an easy and quick one. This is why it is important to get all the necessary information about every moving company you talk to. Here are 6 questions you should ask prospective moving companies.
 
What is your registration number?
The answer you want from this is their USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number. This can be looked up on the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Service Administration) website. Every company that operates in multiple states should have this registration. With that said, moving companies that only work within one state may not have this number. This helps check the legitimacy of a moving company.
 
What is the estimated cost and are there any extra fees?
Most companies base their cost on a rate per pound and a distance rate. Be wary of companies that offer rates based on cubic feet. It is much more beneficial, and reasonable, for you if a company offers rates based on weight if moving a long distance. You should also keep in mind that you must get this estimate in writing, with every charge listed out. Each part should then sign this agreement. This is to ensure they stay true to these rates when billing time comes around. During all this, make sure they include any additional fees your move may incur. This involves you telling them about any large items and any possible obstacles in getting items to and from each area.
 
What liability coverage does your company offer?
The last thing you want is for something to happen to your belongings during the moving process and for you to have to replace it all. Liability coverage is essentially insurance in case this were to happen. Licensed moving companies are required to offer two types of liability, Full Value Protection and Released Value.
 
Full Value Protection: The cost of this coverage varies by company, but the coverage plan makes the moving company fully liable for any items damaged or lost during the move. Released Value Protection: This protection is typically offered for free, but covers your items at a lower cost, typically around 60 cents per pound. There is also the option of purchasing insurance through a third-party company. You should also check to see how much your home insurance covers.
 
Can your company provide every service I need?
Not every moving company offers all of the services you may require. For example, some moving companies may provide a truck and movers, but no cleaning services. Due to this, it is important to inquire up front what all services they provide to know if they can do everything you need. 

Can you provide referrals and recommendations?
While these can also be found online, most legitimate moving companies will gladly provide letters from clients who had a positive experience. You can typically assume these are legitimate and not fraudulent. 
 
Where do you source your movers from?
Not every moving company employs their own movers. Sometimes they outsource this to third party subcontractors. If this is the case, ask who the subcontractor is and try to get in contact and find information about them. If the company employs their own movers, ask about how they handle their background checks. Background checks are the best way to ensure that the people coming to your house can be trusted.

If you're looking for a moving company in the North Royalton and surrounding areas, Me and My Truck can help answer all your questions!