A moving company offers a variety of services to help you move. These include packing, transportation and furniture assembly. They also handle storage and provide insurance to cover your items in case of damage or theft. When choosing a moving company, make sure to compare prices and services before signing a contract. Make a list of the companies you’re considering, and check their BBB rating and online reviews. It’s also a good idea to ask friends and family about their experiences with different moving companies.
You’ll likely find that the cost of a moving company depends on the amount and size of your belongings, as well as the distance between your old and new homes. Some movers offer flat rates, while others may charge per pound or per box. Typically, an inspection will be performed before your move to assess the quantity and quality of the items you’re moving. A moving company will then provide a written estimate that includes all fees and charges.
Some interstate moving companies are called van lines, and they manage moves moving company rogers ar through a network of affiliated agents. They handle paperwork processing, dispatching, shipment routing and monitoring, and claims settlement for their members. Companies like North American Van Lines handle local, long-distance and international moves for both residential and corporate clients. They also provide full-service and fragile packing, furniture disassembly and reassembly, and short- and long-term storage.
The moving company should be licensed and insured to transport your belongings, and its license number should appear on the website or in its advertising. In addition, if you’re moving across state lines, the company should have a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) number. Checking these numbers will help you avoid scams and a moving company that’s not properly licensed or insured.
Once you’ve settled on a company, get multiple quotes and read reviews. Look for a clear and detailed price breakdown, including fees for packing and assembling or reassembling your furniture. Also, be wary of a moving company that requires a large deposit or payment upfront, Michael says. Instead, put a small percentage of the total on a credit card and use that to dispute any charges should you discover wrongdoing.
Make sure that a moving company will provide you with a bill of lading, which is required by law. This document is your contract, and it should detail the services that the moving company will perform and when. It should also specify the movers who will be performing them and any additional services that you’ve requested, such as cleaning or debris removal. It’s also important to read the fine print of your move contract and understand any hidden costs, such as for parking or gas. You should also receive a copy of the company’s order for service, which is required by federal law and specifies the date and time of your move. If you’re not satisfied with a moving company’s order for service, consider filing a complaint with the BBB or the FMCSA.