Moving to a new home or relocating is an exciting adventure many people look forward to, but it’s overwhelming most of the time. However, the overwhelming part can be avoided if you use the service of professional moving companies.
While it may seem easy to move, doing it yourself is a daunting task. Packing everything you have and figuring out how to transport it to your new home is often more hassle than it’s worth.
Hiring professional movers to pack, transport, and unload your belongings is helpful especially when you need a little extra help or do not have the time.
This post will answer all your questions about moving companies.
What is the cost of using a moving company?
The first step in determining how much movers cost is evaluating what exactly needs to be moved. Also, the distance, weight of items you want to move, and the number of movers required are other important factors to be considered.
However, moving companies’ costs can range anywhere from $300-$3000.
How do moving companies charge?
Moving companies have a wide range of charges. It is important to understand the key components of move charges. Being well-informed will help you make a good deal with a moving service provider.
There is no “standard” flat rate. Most of the moving companies charge on an hourly basis. Some providers may charge for the distance of travel, the weight of goods, or total time spent on the move.
Make sure you ask about all possible added fees, including mileage charges, trip charges, fuel surcharges, etc.
Do moving companies charge sales tax?
Sales tax is technically collected on behalf of the state by a company. The company then pays the collected amount to the state in accordance with state laws.
Therefore, it depends on the state you live in. If the moving company that you’re working with is required to collect sales tax, it will be added to your final bill.
Most of them operate locally, and many will charge sales tax on their services, if applicable. You should check with your moving company directly if you have any concerns regarding these charges.
Do you tip moving company packers?
In some states, professional movers are legally allowed to charge a fee for packing and unpacking. When this is allowed, customers will have to tip the packers upon delivery.
Some movers do not allow for additional tipping. It will be clearly stated when making the initial contact with the company.
However, your movers are working hard to ensure your items get to your new location safely. In addition to paying them – you’d like to show your appreciation with a tip.
If your move took several hours longer than anticipated because your belongings were unexpectedly difficult to pack up and load, tipping your movers may be a good idea.
Such a gesture will show your appreciation. It will also help ensure that you have an easy move next time around.
Can I tip moving company drivers?
Yes, you can tip moving company drivers. In fact, it is generally considered etiquette to tip 15 to 20 percent of the moving cost. This is highly recommended when the move requires special effort on the part of the driver.
Tipping your driver is a nice way of showing appreciation for their hard work and help during your move.
Many companies will have a tip option on the bill you receive either before or after your move. If you choose to tip the driver directly, it is best to have loose change on hand for a quick and easy transaction.
How far in advance should I book movers?
The best way to stop the guessing game is to book with confidence. All major moving companies post their schedules at least a week in advance.
However, it’s always a good idea to protect yourself against unfavorable weather and vehicle breakdowns. I recommend at least booking the first available appointment a month in advance or more as not all moving companies operates the same way.
If you think your move is urgent, there are some movers who are able to accommodate requests with much smaller notice. Get in touch with them to schedule your move.
What is an order for service?
It is a standard contract for services and supplies between the customer moving from one location to another, and the mover who will perform the relocation.
This is a quote to the customer outlining the services provided by the moving company, at a specified date and price.
This information should be carefully reviewed. Ensure it contains all terms and conditions necessary for completing any move before signing or accepting the order.
Are there any items that moving companies can’t move?
Yes. There are government regulations and specific items that movers cannot move. Some of these items include ammunition, explosives, flammable liquids/gases, and hazardous materials (pool chemicals, pesticides, acid, aerosol, etc.).
Remember, though, that each mover can determine its own policy for specific items during the booking process.
Ultimately, whether a mover will be able to pack and transport an item depends on how it is classified.
What’s the difference between a binding and a non-binding estimate?
A binding estimate is the most accurate of all moving type estimates. This estimate includes all of the costs, such as inspection fees, moving supplies, and transportation, that will be associated with the move.
There is also a provision that states the customer must accept this estimate as it has been written. If there are any cost overruns during or after the move. However, the customer is not responsible for these additional fees.
While a non-binding estimate is an approximation of your move based on your answers to the moving or relocation specialist. It is not a firm price, so it’s subject to change.
This type of estimate also allows for the moving company to charge more than the original quote if they find extra work that wasn’t initially accounted for.
Do I need to pay a deposit to a moving company before my move?
No. A reputable moving company would not require a deposit before you move.
However, they will require you to sign a contract that states your obligation and theirs for your move. For example, the amount of the total services being provided (such as packaging, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking) will be stated in your contract.
Instead, some companies charge a penalty if the customer cancels within a specific time frame before his or her move date.
Do moving companies charge extra for stairs?
No, stairs usually aren’t considered an “extra” when working with moving companies. Generally, the cost for stairs can be negotiated before the move. That may depend on how many and how big the stairs are.
A rule of thumb is to inform the movers when scheduling your move, of any items you will move up or down a flight of stairs.
This is why it is best to start your moving estimate process with moving companies that provide free estimates. Once you get to this point, you can figure out if the fees are going to cost you too much or not enough for the services that you need.
Does moving company provide boxes?
Most moving companies only provide the service to move you from one place to another. They do not provide boxes. If you are interested in the box, you need to go out and purchase it on your own.
However, movers typically keep a couple of different sizes of boxes in their vehicles. They do this in case they decide to pack something delicate. So, some moving companies offer boxes, and often also at a lower cost than other suppliers. All you have to do is inquire what choices you have.
Most of the time, people ask their friends and family if they can use their box available at home. For those who do not have that option, you can go for a bulk online purchase of boxes at a reasonable cost.
What is a bill of lading?
When you have hired a moving company to transport your belongings, you will usually be given out a bill of lading to confirm services rendered. The bill of lading has useful information as to what was moved, and the costs involved with this process.
The moving company is required by federal law, to give you a copy of this paper as soon as your belongings arrive at their final destination.
It protects you in case the goods arrive damaged. It will also disclose how the items are packed.
How much time do I have to file a claim, If there is loss or damage to my goods?
The time period to make a claim varies by state in which you reside and under which jurisdiction your claim must be made. Generally moving companies offer a claims period of thirty to sixty days after your move is complete.
If you fail to file a complaint within the approved time period, then you likely will not recover any additional money or possessions.
What types of insurance do moving companies offers?
Three forms of insurance are offered by movers to their customers. The first kind of protection is transit damage. As it includes damages caused by breakage, fire, or crash when the belongings are in the vehicle, this is the most general form of protection they sell.
The second kind of insurance is protection or coverage for your belongings. This includes things like water damage and theft. The last type of insurance is liability protection. This is a coverage to pay for all the costs that might occur if someone gets hurt while moving your stuff.
Conclusion
Using moving companies isn’t only cost-effective but will also save you a lot of stress and time. However, to have a successful move, you have to find the best mover that will offer you the quality moving services that you need. So, take your time and do your homework before hiring a moving company.