When hiring a local moving company, make sure to ask the company for documentation of their insurance coverage. Many states require local moving companies to carry liability coverage and cargo insurance. However, some states do not require any insurance coverage at all, and local movers are typically not required by law to carry this type of insurance. If you're concerned that your move will be damaged, check out the moving company's website and ask to see their insurance coverage. cheapest local moving company
Before choosing a moving company, you should check their licensing with the FMCSA, or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This organization monitors complaints made against moving companies. You can also read reviews online to get an idea of their reputations. Make sure to avoid companies without a local address or a phone number that goes to voicemail. If they do not provide their insurance information, you should find another moving company.
The FMCSA is the federal agency that oversees interstate moves. While there are other rules for intrastate moves, these two organizations are unified in their responsibility for safety. Any professional moving company must have liability insurance and be registered with the FMCSA. These regulations help consumers distinguish between legitimate movers and scams. For local moves, however, the laws may be slightly different. Make sure the company you're hiring has a USDOT number.
Most local moving companies carry liability insurance to cover the drivers. This insurance covers both property damage and bodily injury liability. The former will cover medical expenses and loss of income if an accident occurs during a move. The latter will cover any damages that occur to the moving van itself. These policies can be particularly important if the moving van driver is in an accident. Standard auto liability insurance won't cover the entire bill, but umbrella insurance can.
Before hiring a local moving company, be sure that the company you choose has all of the required licensing and insurance. The best way to ensure the safety of your property is by choosing a company that is licensed and insured in your state. Check out the reviews and ratings of moving companies in your area to get an idea of which ones are worth hiring. You'll find that local moving companies are more affordable than the national competitors if you're looking for a local mover.
Another good sign is if the moving company has been accredited by a consumer protection agency or moving trade association. This accreditation helps ensure that they adhere to certain standards and are safer, more reliable and trustworthy. In addition, insured movers include insurance in their prices. Long-distance moving insurance costs about $.60 per pound of weight per article, and local moving insurance covers half of that weight. In general, movers with insurance are less expensive than those without.
The state of New York requires moving companies to have insurance coverage to protect customers' property and belongings. Standard moving policies include General Liability Insurance, Cargo Insurance, Workers Compensation Coverage, Commercial Auto Insurance, and Professional Liability Insurance. Some companies have umbrella policies that cover the entire cost of moving, such as $5 million. Umbrella insurance policies are also required by law for buildings located in New York City.