How do you know what moving company is right for you?
When the moving company is Little Guys Movers, of course. Okay… maybe I’m a bit biased. But as a Co-Founder and Original Little Guy myself, I want nothing more than people to have a great moving experience, whether they work with us or not. So back to our original question – how can you find a great moving company?
Here are some important things to think about, ask, and consider when trying to find the right moving company for you:
Personality
Whether you get your estimate over the phone or in person, you can get a good feel for a company by the personality of the representative. It’s possible the estimator will be the actual owner, but whether you’re talking to an owner or an employee, the demeanor of the individual you are dealing with could be a good way to gauge what it’s like to work with the company as a whole.
Moving Reviews
In this day and age, online reviews are everything. The good and the bad: it’s all out there if you look hard enough. One negative review doesn’t necessarily mean the company is bad, so scan 5-10 reviews in order to get a good picture of what your experience may be like. Additionally, ask friends and family for their experiences and recommendations. Nothing beats an endorsement from someone you trust.
Location, Location, Location
How long has this company been working in the area? If they have been established for some time, it’s a good indicator that they are reliable – companies that disappoint people don’t stick around very long. Also, consider looking up the company’s address and driving by their location. This can be very telling about a company, the vehicles they use, and their operations in general.
Damage Policy
Let’s face it – sometimes accidents happen. For that reason, it’s important to know upfront what the moving company’s damage resolution policy is. It’s ok (and important!) to straight up ask about this so you can be sure that you understand it completely. Read up on your options and what the moving company is legally obligated to provide in this explanation from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Staffing Policy
It’s best if a company employs full-time or part-time staff members as opposed to temporary workers. A moving team is stronger when everyone’s been properly trained. Inquire about the moving company’s staffing and training practices to get a good feel for how they run their operation.
The Estimate
In order to get the most accurate moving estimate possible, your moving company needs a comprehensive understanding of what all the job entails. So…
- Don’t hold anything back. Be thorough and forthright about everything that needs to be moved.
- Be suspicious of estimates based on little-to-no information from you.
The fewer questions a moving company asks about the scope of work, the more likely the final cost will be different than the original estimate come moving day.
And this should go without saying – but seriously, get a copy of your estimate (paper or digital), as this will help your position if anything happens to change the price later.
Once you’ve decided on a company, there are still a few things to consider before the big move:
Tipping Etiquette
Friends ask me all the time if they should tip their movers. It’s very simple – if they work hard and care for you and your belongings, it’s a great idea to share some love. Depending on the size and scope of the job, a tip from $10-$100 per person is appropriate and awesome, but don’t underestimate the value of lunch or drinks for the crew as well.
Valuables
This also seems like a no brainer, but it’s definitely best to keep smaller, highly valuable items (like jewelry, money, and guns) packed away and in your control at all times. Theft is actually quite rare, but why risk it? Putting those items in your trunk and moving them yourself is the best idea.
Kids and Pets
Sure, kids and pets are cool. But the environment on moving day can be hectic and busy, with multiple people sharing the front door, dolly loads of boxes coming and going, trucks backing up, etc. My point being – make sure those little loved ones are contained and out of the way as much as possible. (Looking for more tips on how to move pets? We got you.)
Hopefully this is helpful to you as you find the right company for your upcoming move. We’d love for you to consider working with Little Guys Movers, and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have.
— Chris Hawley, Co-Founder and Original Little Guy