20 Tips: How to Hire a Long Distance Moving Company

20 Ways to Guarantee You Choose the Right Movers

When it comes to a Grand Rapids long distance moving company, it may feel intimidating. However, you can take some measures to ensure you are making the best choice for what you need. You can make things easier by asking four very important questions and following some practical advice when hiring your mover.

 

Ask every long distance moving company you interview these 4 important questions before you hire them:

• Is the long distance moving company asking you for an upfront payment before your move?
• Does the long distance moving company have a brick and mortar location (and not just a post office box) on its website?
• Does the company list licensing information on its site, such as their DOT number?
• What is the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and are they certified with AMSA?

If the answer to any question above is no, then you could be dealing with an unscrupulous company, or be falling victim to another type of scam.

Here is a list of the steps to take to ensure you make an informed move when choosing between moving companies.

Where to start

• Start your search for a long distance moving company by asking your friends, family members, and coworkers] about Grand Rapids movers they’ve used and liked.
• Contact a real estate agent you trust to get a minimum of three moving companies that have actual brick-and-mortar locations in Grand Rapids.
• If you are still using a phone book, remember—just because a long-distance mover has a large ad does not necessarily mean it is reputable.
• Once you have made a list of potential movers, contact the companies via phone to get the full company name and “doing business as” names, contact information, and Department of Transportation / MC license numbers.
• Visit the the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website, and search for the company using the DOT and MC license numbers to see safety information, any orders to cease operation, licensing, and other information. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer groups in Grand Rapids or Michigan.

Getting estimates

 

• You need to set up either an in-home or virtual estimate, which should be provided free of charge. An established long distance moving company WILL NOT give you a quote over the phone, or without inspecting your items, residence, and moving logistics.
• Don’t rely on a quote provided sight-unseen over the telephone or via email. When moving across state lines, your charge is based on how heavy your items are, and the distance between your old and new location. You are better off meeting directly with the mover’s representative to to be certain that you both understand what is involved.
• During the on-site assessment, be sure to show the estimator everything that is to be moved. Don’t forget about your stuff in the basement, or the major pieces of furniture you’ve you may have sent away for maintenance. Don’t be afraid to ask questions either. The salesperson should also ask you questions – about your future residence, the timing of your move, etc..
• Request information on “valuation” options. Valuation offers protection from loss to your items. The valuation option you choose sets the basis upon which any issue will be adjusted and the maximum liability of the moving company. The liability of a mover for breakage is based upon the mover’s fees, as well as federal laws and regulations, and has certain constraints and omissions. Valuation is not assurance; it is simply a rate-based level of mover's obligation.
• Be careful of quotes that are significantly lower than the rest. "Unrealistically low" price quotes could result in significantly lower-quality service, or they could be an indication of a mover who plans to "up" the price in a "bait and switch" moving ploy. Some "rogue" movers are known to take household goods "ransom" and demand extortionate amounts before returning the possessions.

Go with a name you know

• There are plenty of quality named van lines in Grand Rapids to choose from. If you are unfamiliar with a particular long distance moving company, and you have no recommendations from friends or business associates, be very careful! Don’t be persuaded by an “affordable” price from a lesser-known company; remember, you’re entrusting your mover with nearly all of your personal possessions.
• If you're looking to hire a moving company, it's important to consider the attentiveness of the salesperson is. Can you trust your representative will be there to help you through your relocation? Are they able to provide additional support resources such as a dedicated support team?
• If you're in the market for a mover, it's a good idea to take a drive past the mover’s facility. This will give you a sense of their level of quality and professionalism. It's essential to hire a service provider that meets your needs and requirements.
• Long distance moving companies are required by law to provide you with a digital copy, or make it available on their website, “Your Rights and Responsibilities.” In this brochure, the “110 percent rule” is explained. The rule states that under a non-binding agreement, the mover cannot require you to pay more than the amount of the original estimate, plus ten percent, at the time of delivery. You are obligated to pay any remaining charges over the 110 percent amount within the following 30 days.

Timing is important

• Make arrangements for your move well in advance – at least 4 to 6 days before the moving date. If possible, try not to move during “peak” times.
• Throughout the year, the last every month is a busy time for movers, because of ending rental agreements and preferred closing dates.
• Summertime – May to mid-September, when children are on summer break, are “peak season” for movers. Schedule summertime moves as far in advance as possible…and again, try to stay away from month-end moving dates. Busy times moves should be planned at least six to eight weeks in advance to make sure the dates you’re looking for are available.

If you fall victim

Unfortunately, a few customers will fall victim to malignant movers this year. Fortunately, there is a company called MoveSaver available to help. Those who believe they may have been defrauded should contact MoveRescue at 800-832-1773. Consumers who call this number will talk to an agent who will evaluate the situation and guide the caller through the appropriate next steps. MoveRescue, which is supported by a coalition of law firms throughout the United States, and sponsored by premier van lines, serves as a central source for customers who need legal advice or fraud awareness resources. In some cases, MoveRescue even offers “Shipment Rescue” for items being held by rogue movers.

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