A moving company (also known as movers or removalists) is a service that assists people and businesses move their belongings from one location to another. Some large companies are national with a network of local branches or affiliates, while others are independent, locally owned and operated businesses. Regardless of how they operate, all moving companies offer some similar services. These include packing, loading, transportation, and unpacking. Some also provide specialty services such as furniture disassembly, storage, and car transport. Additionally, some offer extras like real-time GPS tracking and supplemental insurance.
In order to choose the best moving company beaverton, customers should consider their specific needs and budget. They should read reviews and ratings from multiple sources, and look for a company that is licensed and insured. Additionally, they should ask for in-home estimates based on an inventory of their belongings, and avoid companies that only offer over-the-phone quotes.
When choosing a moving company, customers should pay attention to red flags that can indicate problems. These include a lack of licensure or insurance, unmarked trucks, and poor online reviews. Additionally, if a moving company has a history of complaints with consumer protection agenciesa, it may not be worth hiring.
The best moving companies will be able to handle a wide range of relocations. They will have a network of local agents that can help with moves within a particular region, and they will be able to coordinate international moves through their headquarters. In addition, reputable movers will be able to provide a free estimate for their services.
Once a customer has selected a few potential moving companies, they should contact them for a consultation. The moving company should send an inspector to the home to assess the items to be moved, and then provide a written estimate for the cost of the move. This estimate will be based on the weight of the items and the distance they are traveling. For example, a person moving a studio apartment across town will have a much smaller load than someone who is moving a family across the country.
Choosing the right moving company can be overwhelming for many people, especially since they are entrusting their valuables to strangers. To help make the process easier, customers should do their research by reading reviews and ratings on multiple websites. They should also ask for references from friends and neighbors, and check with their building’s doormen or superintendent for recommendations.
In addition, it is a good idea to find out if the moving company has a track record of reliability and honesty. While there will be occasional negative reviews, a pattern of bad experiences should be a major red flag. Finally, customers should always be wary of a moving company that requires a large deposit upfront. Typically, a company should only require a small deposit or nothing at all until the move is complete. Lastly, customers should be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau and, for interstate moves, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.