When you are looking to hire a moving company, you need to know how they work and how much you should expect to pay. You may have to pay extra fees if you need to move a large or heavy item or if you live in a house with elevators or stairs. These fees are not usually disclosed by companies.
Lessons from hiring a moving company
Make sure you get an itemized quote when hiring a moving company. This way, you can compare movers and compare their prices. Also, make sure you allow plenty of time for the move. Dawn, who writes a blog for Quicken, recommends that you plan the move well in advance.
Before hiring a moving company, determine the size of the crew and number of trucks needed for the move. This will help ensure the company can complete the job within the required timeframe. Avoid moving on the last day or two of the month. This is because moving crews are often overbooked.
Costs for hiring a moving company
A moving company can help take the stress out of moving. These services will pack, transport and unload your possessions, and even provide insurance. Though some people worry that leaving their possessions in strangers' hands can be dangerous, most moving services have experienced professionals who know how to handle your possessions with the utmost care.
You should be aware that the costs of hiring a moving company can vary widely. You should discuss cancellation policies with any moving company you are considering. There may be hidden fees. In general, cancellations should be made at least seven days in advance. Otherwise, you could find yourself paying a cancellation fee of $50 or more.
Precautions to be taken by the customer
Before you hire a moving company, be sure to understand all factors that could affect the quality and safety of your move. For instance, the company should be able to transport and deliver your goods without damaging them. It should have a team that can handle customer inquiries. Any concerns or problems that may arise should be addressed by the customer service department.
It is important that you inquire about the licensing and insurance coverage of the moving company. It should include information about the packing materials used and the protection measures taken during the move. Furthermore, you should ask about the crew that will be packing your items. The moving crew should be experienced and well-trained.
Hourly rate charged by moving companies
The hourly rate is an important factor to consider when hiring a moving company. Although the cost of hiring movers can vary widely, the average range is between $40 to $100 for single-man moves and $200 for two-man teams. The size of your home as well as the number of boxes that you need to be moved will affect the price.
Even if you are only moving for a short distance, local moving companies charge an hourly fee. Local moving companies charge an hourly rate for minimum three hours of work. However, each company may charge slightly differently, and some may bundle their services into one hourly rate.
Moving companies must obtain safety certifications
Moving companies must follow industry-specific safety regulations to operate legally. These guidelines typically cover the transport of large household goods, motor vehicles, or other large items. These guidelines can be different in each state but they all protect motorists and consumers. Interested consumers can verify a company's safety record by requesting a list of certifications and licensing.
Many movers have an OSHA Safety Certificate certification. This is the most common safety certificate required by moving companies. This certification is earned through the Delaware Technical Community College. This certification does not require you to take an exam and can be obtained with as little as two years' work experience. Once you have this certificate, it's valid for life, so don't be afraid to apply for one.
Estimate contract
When hiring a moving company, it is important to negotiate the terms of the estimate contract. You can ask for a binding quote, or you can request an estimate that's not bound. In either case, you should have a written contract to protect yourself against price changes. In addition to ensuring that your moving company does not overcharge you, a binding estimate will ensure that you get the services you expect at the price they quote.
You'll need to sign an estimate contract before allowing a moving company to move your belongings. It must be in writing, and it should detail all of the charges. The contract should be dated and signed by both parties. A non-binding estimate may increase your bill by 10 percent.
Moving companies require insurance
You should ensure that your belongings are protected when you hire a moving company. Generally, moving companies carry liability coverage, as well as full valuation insurance. This coverage limits the movers' legal responsibility to the value of the possessions they are transporting. Additional insurance may be offered by some movers to provide additional protection, such extra protection against damage or loss. These policies may have different deductibles.
A moving company must have at least $1,000,000 in professional and general liability insurance. They should also have a minimum $500,000 in cyber liability insurance. The amount of this insurance will depend on the type of services the company provides.