Planning a move, large or small, is a complicated process that can bring on plenty of mixed emotions. Along with the excitement of moving into your new home is the stress that comes with the logistical headaches of any move. Whether you’re moving across the country or staying within the same city, you can easily get lost in trying to organize, pack, and arrange all the moving parts that come with loading and unloading a truck.
Choosing the right company to handle your move can be your best friend during this time, significantly reducing the burden on your shoulders. However, hiring the wrong company will significantly increase your stress level and will likely cost you more money than you expected.
Find the right moving companies San Jose by asking these five questions to avoid aggravation, hidden costs, and missed timelines.
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Are You A Licensed Moving Company?
Make sure the company is licensed through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and has a US Department of Transportation number, which is required for any interstate operator. If you’re moving within the same state, make sure they’re licensed within your state. These licenses don’t prove their service quality, but they show you’re dealing with a legitimate company and not a scam.
Do You Carry the Right Insurance?
Your carrier’s insurance covers any damage to your belongings caused by the movers. Most movers carry basic coverage for $0.30 per pound for in-state moves and $0.50 per pound for interstate moves. Some offer supplemental full-value coverage for an extra fee. Before you move, check your renters’ or homeowners insurance policy. Your belongings may already be covered for moves.
How Do You Calculate Your Costs?
Choose a company that is clear and open about what they charge and why. Typical cost variables include labor rates, shipment rate, transportation distance, and seasonality. Some may also charge for fuel costs. Don’t hire someone who won’t give you a cost breakdown and explain the factors that impact their quote.
What Other Fees Do You Charge?
Many moving companies charge hidden fees they don’t include in their estimate or hide in the contract’s fine print, and you won’t know about them until they present you with your final invoice. Ask specifically if there are fees outside of the usual costs for labor and transportation.
Note that if the company is trying to hide its fees, you may not get a straight answer from their representative. Always check any company’s online reviews to see what past customers have said about any surprise fees.
What Other Services Do You Provide?
The right moving company can ease the stress of moving by providing services beyond loading and unloading and reassembling furniture. Most offer a packing service as well as storage, while some will even include an option for post-move cleaning. Note that these services aren’t cheap but may be worth it to make you move much easier.
When planning your move, don’t get sucked into choosing a company based solely on the lowest quote. You want to choose a provider that is licensed and insured, is open about their costs, doesn’t charge any hidden fees, and can provide you with all the solutions you need for your move.
