Time to move, and it can be exciting, as well as frustrating if you choose the wrong company to help you move. Knowing how to find the best moving companies in Philadelphia is important, and we have several tips to make sure you choose wisely.
When deciding on moving companies in Philadelphia, here are some tips on research to do and questions to ask the companies which you interview. (Do not settle on the first company you call; this is definitely a time when you want to shop around a little.)
1. Do your research
Check out the online reputation of companies you are considering. Almost all companies today have a website , and if they don’t, it should be a red flag. These sites will generally list services, testimonials, and perhaps a general idea of costs for different moves. Background information on the companies should be readily available, along with contact info so that you can ask further questions.
2. Referrals
Ask your family, co-workers and friends which moving company they recommend in your area, or even if they can tell you which companies to steer clear of.
3. Beware of Scams
There are websites set up solely to help you avoid scams, and “moving scams” in particular. You can read articles and message boards where other consumers discuss poor experiences they’ve had with movers. This can be invaluable as you choose a mover.
4. Follow FMCSA tip
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers tips to make sure you don’t release all your family heirlooms to a fly-by-night company. If the mover gives you an estimate without seeing your things, it is a bad sign. These estimates often end up getting bumped up considerably before the job is done. Also, if they demand a large deposit before the move, be leery.
If the company website does not make note of the license and insurance information, and a local address, think twice. Be extremely cautious if a rental truck shows up at your door on moving day rather than a branded company vehicle.
4. Get Reliability Information
The first step is to contact the Better Business Bureau. While this may seem like overkill, you want to find out their track record before they get your things on the truck. The BBB usually can give you information that will tell you if the companies you are considering have generated any reports or had any grievances filed, and how those were resolved. Almost all companies will have a disgruntled customer here and there, but you want to see how the company handled the complaint and that they left the customer satisfied in the end.
After you have narrowed down your choices to two or three companies with the above research, call up each of the companies you are considering and get answers to these questions.
1. How long have you been in business? (Make sure this matches up with the research you conducted.)
2. Are you licensed and insured? Ask to see copies of these documents.
3. Are your employees bonded or otherwise vetted?
4. Do you have references I can take a look at?
5. Do you guarantee your pick up and delivery dates?
6. How are any damages handled?
7. If you find any BBB grievances, ask them about it and how it was resolved.
As you call each of the moving companies, be aware of not only the answers you get to your questions, but any hesitations and differences in tone of voice. These can often tell you more than the actual answers you are getting from the company employees.
If you perform your due diligence upfront, and ask the right questions, you will far less likely to have any issues with your move. A smooth move is possible, and being proactive in finding the right moving companies in Philadelphia will nearly guarantee to make it smooth and hassle-free.