Moving is undoubtedly one of the most stressful life events, whether you’re relocating across town or to another state. The pressure of packing up your entire life, coordinating logistics, and ensuring everything arrives safely at your new home can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where the right moving team comes in.
A reliable moving company can make a world of difference, turning a daunting task into a seamless experience. However, finding the right team of movers requires more than just picking the first one you come across. By considering a few key factors, you can ensure your move is stress-free and well-handled.
1. Research and Recommendations
When choosing your local moving services, thorough research is crucial. Here are some steps to guide your search for the best movers in New Hampshire:
Online Reviews and Ratings
The internet is a powerful tool for vetting moving companies. Look for reviews on popular platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Reviews can give you insight into other people’s experiences with the company, highlighting any potential red flags or positive aspects you might not have considered.
Pay attention to how the company responds to negative reviews, as this can reflect its commitment to customer satisfaction.
Word-of-Mouth Referrals
Personal recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues are invaluable. If someone you trust has recently moved, ask them about their experience. Word-of-mouth referrals can help you find movers who are tried and tested, reducing the risk of unexpected issues. You may even get insider tips about hidden fees or services that are worth considering.
Check Licensing and Insurance
A reliable moving company will be properly licensed and insured. Always verify that the movers are registered with the appropriate state or federal regulatory bodies, like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) if they are handling interstate moves.
A licensed and insured company gives you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are protected in case of any damage or loss during the move.
2. Get Multiple Estimates
When it comes to pricing your move, it’s always wise to gather several quotes. Here’s what to keep in mind:
In-Home Estimates
A reputable moving company will provide an in-home estimate, which involves an assessment of your belongings. This allows them to give you a more accurate quote based on the size of your home, the amount of furniture, and any specialty items you might have.
Avoid companies that only offer estimates over the phone or online without seeing your home first, as this could lead to an inaccurate price.
Compare Quotes
Once you have several quotes, compare them carefully. While it’s tempting to choose the lowest-priced option, don’t forget that price should not be the sole determining factor. Make sure each estimate includes the same services and coverage so that you’re comparing apples to apples.
Look for transparency and clarity in the breakdown of costs, including any additional fees.
Beware of Lowball Offers
Be cautious of movers offering unusually low estimates. While it might be tempting to save money, lowball offers can often signal a lack of experience or hidden fees down the line. A legitimate moving company will provide a fair estimate based on your needs and will be upfront about potential extra costs.
3. Evaluate Services and Specializations
Movers offer a range of services, so it’s important to ensure the company you choose meets your specific needs. Here’s what to consider:
Packing and Unpacking Services
Some moving companies offer packing and unpacking services, which can be a major convenience. If you’re short on time or don’t want the hassle of wrapping delicate items, consider hiring a company that provides these services. Ask about the materials they use for packing (e.g., bubble wrap, moving boxes, etc.) and whether they’ll help with the unpacking at your new home.
Specialty Item Handling
If you own valuable or fragile items, such as pianos, antiques, or artwork, make sure the moving company has experience handling specialty items. Not all movers are equipped to deal with these types of items, so find a company that offers specialized services and has the right equipment to protect your belongings during transport.
Storage Options
If you need to store your items before, during, or after your move, check if the company offers storage solutions. Some moving companies have short-term or long-term storage facilities available. Ensure that the storage units are secure and climate-controlled, especially if you’re storing sensitive items like electronics, furniture, or artwork.
Long-Distance or International Moves
If you’re planning a long-distance or international move, you’ll need a moving company with experience in these types of relocations. International moves involve additional logistics, including customs, shipping regulations, and timing, so make sure your moving company has the expertise to handle such a complex job.
4. Assess Communication and Customer Service
Good communication is essential when dealing with movers. Here’s how to evaluate a company’s customer service:
Responsiveness and Availability
A good moving company should respond promptly to your inquiries and be available to answer questions at each step of the process. Test their communication by calling or emailing them before committing to see how quickly and thoroughly they respond. You don’t want to be left in the dark about your move.
Professionalism and Courtesy
Movers should be polite, professional, and respectful of your time and property. Pay attention to how the staff interacts with you during the estimate process. Are they courteous and willing to explain details of the move? Professionalism is a good indicator of how the company will handle your belongings on moving day.
Clear Contract and Terms
A reliable moving company will provide a clear and detailed contract that outlines the terms of service, including the price, the services provided, and the timeline. Be wary of any company that doesn’t offer a formal contract or tries to rush you into signing something without explaining the details.
5. Trust Your Gut Feeling
Your intuition can be a powerful guide when choosing a moving company.
Intuition and Comfort
If you feel comfortable with the movers, it’s usually a good sign. Trust your gut and go with a company that makes you feel at ease. You’ll be entrusting them with your belongings, and it’s important that you feel confident they can handle the job.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be on the lookout for any red flags during your interactions with movers. If a company is unprofessional, vague, or doesn’t provide clear answers, it might be a warning sign. Additionally, if you feel pressured to make a decision quickly or are promised unrealistic results, it’s best to walk away and look for a more trustworthy team.
Choose Fit 2 Move
Choosing the right moving team is crucial to ensuring a smooth, stress-free move. The time you invest in finding the right movers will pay off when your belongings arrive safely at your new home, and the entire moving process feels effortless.
Fit 2 Move is a veteran-owned moving company based in New Hampshire. We are serving the seacoast, central, southern, and lakes region of New Hampshire as well as southern Maine and northeastern Massachusetts. Contact us!
