If you are moving, it’s important to find a trustworthy moving company to ensure your belongings arrive safely and on time. The best way to find a reliable mover is to read customer reviews, and to ask family and friends for referrals.
The company you choose should also be able to provide insurance coverage to protect your items during the move, and should be available for emergencies like fires or natural disasters. They should also have a team of trained and licensed professionals who know how to handle the delicate tasks that come with transporting your personal belongings.
Check if the moving company is certified by the American Moving & Storage Association, which requires companies to follow certain standards and pass a background check. You can also verify their credentials with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Allied Van Lines has a strong reputation for its quality service and is often recommended by real estate agents, as well as by customers who have moved with them in the past. Allied’s movers are highly experienced and use high-tech moving equipment. Their staff also has access to specialized supplies to help with delicate items and packing, and they have a dedicated team to oversee the entire process.
Mayflower has been a trusted moving company for almost 100 years, and it’s one of the largest moving companies in the country. They offer a range of services and are licensed to move both domestically and internationally.
It’s important to remember that even a top-rated moving company can make mistakes, so you should always be prepared for a few hiccups along the way. You can also use online reviews to help you assess the performance of a particular moving company.
Avoid movers who demand large upfront deposits or who hold your property hostage in an attempt to extort additional money, says Katherine Hutt, a spokeswoman for the Better Business Bureau. A mover should not require an upfront deposit of more than 20 percent of the estimated cost, she adds.
A moving company that doesn’t have a DOT number is likely not legitimate, says Kurt Larson, a spokesman for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This number is required for interstate moves, and is listed on a company’s website. It should also be provided in advertisements.
Similarly, a moving company that doesn’t have a license for intrastate moves is probably not legitimate. This type of move requires specific regulations, including a license from the state where your home is located and an insurance policy covering damage to household goods while in transit.
To find out if a moving company is licensed to do intrastate moving, visit your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) website. It’s also a good idea to check the Better Business Bureau for complaints against the company.
Another helpful tool is the DOT’s carrier search, which allows you to see a list of all registered movers in your area and determine their certification status. You can also contact the DOT to see what steps the agency takes to enforce its rules and regulations.