A lot of people find it hard to figure out how to hire a long-distance moving company. It can be hard to decide which company to trust with your things when there are so many to choose from. Picking the right moving company is important for a smooth move, whether you’re going from one state to another or across the country. When hiring a long-distance moving company, people often make these mistakes. Read on to learn how to avoid them.
1. Not Doing Enough Research
One of the most common mistakes people make when hiring a long-distance moving company is not conducting enough research. While it may be tempting to go with the first “cheap long distance moving company” you come across, this can lead to problems down the road. It’s essential to thoroughly research companies, read customer reviews, and check for proper licenses and insurance. Make sure the company has experience in long-distance moves and is licensed by the Department of Transportation (DOT). A trustworthy business will have a history of making safe and quick long-distance moves.
Tip: Do some research on the business. Look at their website, read reviews, and ask for references. A trustworthy business will have a past of giving good service.
2. Overlooking Insurance and Protection Options
Being moved over long distances increases the chance that your things will get damaged or lost. Many people make the mistake of overlooking the insurance and protection options that moving companies offer. While moving companies are required to provide basic coverage, this may not be enough to fully protect your valuable items.
Tip: Ask the moving company what kinds of protection they offer. You might want to buy extra insurance for your things, especially if you’re moving fragile or expensive things. Getting insurance for a small amount of money can save you a lot of money in fixes or replacements in the future.
3. Not Getting an In-Home Estimate
Many long-distance moving companies offer online or phone estimates, but these can be inaccurate. While they might be convenient, they don’t give an accurate picture of the scope of your move. Relying solely on an estimate over the phone or online can result in unexpected costs or fees. The moving company can figure out how much furniture, boxes, and other things need to be moved by coming to your home for a quote. This makes them give you a better quote.
Tip: Always request an in-home estimate. This ensures the moving company knows exactly what needs to be moved, which can prevent hidden fees and surprises on moving day.
4. Not Asking About Additional Fees
When hiring a long-distance moving company, it’s crucial to understand the full cost of your move. Many “cheap long-distance moving companies” offer low base rates but add hidden fees for things like fuel charges, long carries, or packing materials. If you’re not clear about what’s included in the initial quote, you could end up paying much more than you expected.
Tip: Always ask for a breakdown of all costs, including any potential additional fees. Make sure you understand what’s included in the quoted price, and get everything in writing before committing to a contract.
5. Failing to Plan Ahead
It’s important to plan ahead for long-distance moves because leaving things until the last minute can cause stress and misunderstanding. Booking a moving service too close to your moving date might result in limited availability, especially during peak moving seasons. Furthermore, moving companies may not be able to accommodate special requests, such as moving large or fragile items, if they are already booked.
Tip: Plan your move well in advance. Ideally, you should start researching moving companies at least 6-8 weeks before your move. This gives you time to compare services and find the best company for your needs.
6. Not Communicating Special Needs or Requests
If you have special moving needs, such as moving large furniture, fragile items, or a collection of delicate antiques, it’s important to communicate these requirements to the moving company upfront. Failing to mention any special requests can result in mishandling or damage.
Tip: Be clear about your special needs when contacting moving companies. Whether it’s a bulky piece of furniture or fragile art, make sure the company is equipped to handle these items properly.
Conclusion
Hiring a long-distance moving company involves more than just picking the cheapest option. By avoiding these common mistakes—doing thorough research, requesting accurate estimates, understanding all costs, planning ahead, and communicating special needs—you can ensure that your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Spend some time looking for a professional moving company you can trust. They will take care of your things and let you enjoy your new home without any extra stress.
