A moving company is a business that provides transportation services for a fee. It is a good idea to compare prices and services offered by several companies before making a decision. A good place to start is by selecting three or more potential companies and calling them for a discussion of your needs and a general estimate. If you find a company that you really like, ask them to come out and provide you with a more detailed estimate at your home.
A reputable moving company moving company Garland TX will never charge more than what is quoted in its written estimate. It should also include a pamphlet that sets forth your rights and payment responsibilities during a move. It should also explain whether it is offering a binding or non-binding estimate and what kind of liability protection you will get with each kind of service. It is important to understand whether the company is licensed as a carrier or broker. You can check licensing status by looking up a moving company’s USDOT and MC number on the FMCSA website or by asking for it directly. Movers licensed as carriers have their own operating authority and will handle all aspects of a move while brokers contract moving services out to others.
Most full-service movers offer white-glove service, including packing, unpacking, and appliance servicing. In addition, they will take care of assembling and disassembling furniture and storing items in temporary storage when your new house isn’t ready for them to be delivered. Many also offer specialized services for certain items, such as pool tables or playground sets. These services may require dismantling and reassembly before moving and may be priced higher than standard moves.
When choosing a moving company, you should also look for one that has a proven track record of quality service and good customer reviews. Online reviews and references from friends or family are good places to start. The Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot are also excellent sources of information. A mover that doesn’t have a lot of positive customer reviews is a red flag.
It is important to know that all movers must be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. They must also carry cargo liability insurance and provide a copy of their operating authority and proof of insurance to the customer. The mover must also provide a telephone number where consumers can contact customer service, which should be open during all hours of the day and on weekends.
If you’re planning an interstate move, it is best to choose a mover that offers nationwide service and has high customer ratings. For example, Allied Van Lines is one of the top rated moving companies for interstate moves because its agents are located throughout the country and work with other movers to transport belongings. The company also has a 24/7 customer service phone number and online chat support. In addition, Allied has a variety of moving options, such as shuttle service and storage-in-transit (SIT), which can be helpful for moves that aren’t ready to be delivered right away.