How to Choose a Moving Company

How to Choose a Moving Company

Moving to a new home is a big step, and choosing the right moving company can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

Let’s dive into how you can find the perfect movers for your next big move as well as a few handy tips for moving along the way.

Understand Your Moving Needs 

First things first, you need to understand what kind of move you’re dealing with. Are you moving locally within the same city, or is this a long-distance move across states? The size of your household also matters. For example, moving a three-bedroom house is quite different from moving a small apartment. Knowing these details will help you narrow down your choices.

Determine Special Moving Requirements

Do you have items that need special care, like a grand piano, antiques, or fragile artwork? Maybe you have pets that need to be transported safely. Listing out all these special requirements will ensure you choose a moving company equipped to handle everything with care.

Set Your Budget

Moving can be expensive, so it’s essential to decide on a budget. This will help you filter out companies that are outside your price range and avoid any nasty financial surprises later on.

Moving Tip:  Don’t forget to budget for packing materials and moving boxes.  

When it comes to moving, the quality of your packing supplies can make a significant difference in protecting your belongings. Professional grade moving boxes and packing supplies are designed to withstand the rigors of moving and provide superior protection for your items. Unlike reused grocery store boxes that can be weak and prone to collapse, professional grade boxes are sturdy and come in various sizes to fit different items securely. Don’t skimp on packing materials—investing in high-quality moving boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper will help ensure that your possessions arrive at your new home in the same condition they left. You can find a wide selection of these professional grade moving boxes and packing supplies at your local Roomia self storage facility, or our online boxshop, making it convenient to pick up everything you need in one trip.

Research Moving Companies

The internet is a treasure trove of information. Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews and Trustpilot can give you a wealth of information about different moving companies.  Look for companies with high ratings and read through the reviews to get a sense of other customers’ experiences.

Check for Licensing and Insurance, ensuring that any moving company you’re considering is properly licensed and insured.

Ask for Recommendations

Never underestimate the power of word-of-mouth. Ask your friends, family, and neighbors if they’ve used any moving companies recently. Personal recommendations can often lead you to hidden gems that you wouldn’t find online. Your local Roomia Self Storage can also recommend frequently used and reputable moving companies.

Get Multiple Quotes

Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Get at least three quotes from different companies to compare prices and services. This will give you a good benchmark and help you avoid companies that are either too expensive or suspiciously cheap. This may also help you discover additional moving features and benefits that you may not have otherwise considered.

Request a Detailed Estimate

When asking for quotes, make sure you get a detailed, written estimate. This should include all charges and fees, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Some companies might offer to give you a quote over the phone, but an in-home estimate is usually more accurate.

Essential Questions to Ask

When you’re interviewing potential moving companies, don’t be shy about asking questions. Here are a few key ones to consider:

– How long have you been in business?

– What types of moving services do you offer?

– What is your policy on damages and losses?

– Can you provide references from previous customers?

– Are there any additional fees not included in the estimate?

Read Reviews and Testimonials 

Reading online reviews from platforms like Trustpilot and testimonials from previous customers can provide valuable insights into a company’s reliability and service quality. Look for patterns in the reviews. If multiple people mention the same issue, it’s worth noting.

Check for Red Flags

Unfortunately, the moving industry is not immune to scams. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

– Extremely low quotes compared to others

– Lack of a physical address or contact information

– Demanding a large deposit upfront

– Unprofessional behavior or lack of clear communication

If something feels off, trust your instincts and look elsewhere.

Understand the Contract

Before you sign anything, make sure you read the contract thoroughly. It should detail all services and charges, pick-up and delivery dates, liability and insurance coverage, and cancellation and refund policies. If anything is unclear, ask for clarification.

Ensure that any verbal agreements you’ve made with the moving company are included in the written contract. This protects you in case there are any disputes later on.

Plan Ahead for Moving Day

A few days before your move, confirm all details with the moving company. Make sure they have the correct address, contact information, and any special instructions.

Creating a moving day checklist can help you stay organised. Include tasks like packing an essentials box, arranging for pet care, and making sure someone is available to oversee the move.

The Self Storage Solution

When my family moved from our old house to our new one, our new home wasn’t quite ready, but we had to vacate our old place. That’s when self storage came to our rescue. We found a local storage facility that offered flexible storage units, which was perfect for our furniture and personal storage items.

Using self storage allowed us to move in stages, reducing the stress of moving everything in one go. Plus, it gave us time to organise and declutter before bringing everything into our new home. If you’re in a similar situation, consider renting a self storage unit to make your move more manageable.

NEED STORAGE? Make your life Roomia.

Choosing the right moving company can make a world of difference in your moving experience. By understanding your needs, doing thorough research, and asking the right questions, you can find a reliable company that fits your budget and requirements. And don’t forget, self storage can be a lifesaver during the moving process. With careful planning and a little help from professionals, you can make your move smooth and stress-free.

For a quote, visit roomia.com.au today.

Happy moving!