When you’re moving to a new home, there are many things to keep in mind. Choosing a reliable moving company can help reduce the stress of moving day, and ensure your belongings are safely delivered to your new house. To narrow down your options, start by asking for recommendations from friends and family, and then shop around. Check out reviews, ask questions about pricing and services, and make sure the companies you’re considering have a valid license and insurance. Look out for red flags like unmarked trucks, poor online reviews, or a lack of physical offices.
As one of the largest movers, Allied Van Lines has the resources and expertise to handle local, long-distance, or interstate moves. The company also offers a wide range of specialty services, including packing, antique and fine art transport, and auto shipping. Customers rave about the company’s excellent customer service and affordable pricing, and the company was even named a Top Moving Company by Newsweek and Statista.
For an accurate quote, a good mover will want to do either a virtual or in-person walkthrough of your home before providing you with a cost estimate. This will allow them to better understand what they’re estimating, which can prevent unexpected charges on moving day. They should also be able to provide you with a bill of lading, which is a written contract that includes everything from the estimates and services you’ll be paying for to your pick-up and delivery dates. Make sure you read this carefully and don’t sign anything until you fully understand it.
In addition to checking licensing and insurance requirements, you should always get a written quote before hiring a moving company. Any reputable mover should be willing to do this, and they should have no problem providing you with a list of verifiable referrals from previous customers. They should also have a website and phone number that you can call to get more information about their services.
If you’re planning an international move, a full-service moving company is often your best bet. While the most prestigious national van lines can be pricey, they offer a range of specialized services that other movers may not. For example, International Van Lines (IVL) provides tailor-made packages that include international moving and storage, full-service packing, pre-trip planning, and a streamlined claims process. In addition, IVL is known for its customizable pricing, allowing customers to select the services that best fit their needs and budget. It’s also a ProMover, meaning it meets the American Moving and Storage Association’s high standards for moving companies. This program requires movers to pass background checks and adhere to strict ethical practices. IVL’s top-notch service and tailored pricing is well worth the extra investment. In fact, it’s earned them the highest customer ratings of all major movers. While there’s room for improvement such as their bidding process and reliance on third-party contractors, its commitment to quality makes it a solid choice for your next relocation.