How to Find the Best Moving Services
When you move, you have a lot of options when it comes to hiring movers. Some companies provide full service moving and storage, while others specialize in specific services like packing, crating and furniture assembly. Some are certified by the Better Business Bureau, and some are members of industry organizations that require them to abide by certain standards of conduct. Choosing the right company for your moving needs depends on your budget and the amount of time you’re willing to spend managing the move.
There are some things that all the best movers have in common, including high customer ratings and insurance coverage. However, a few stand out above the rest. Safeway Moving, for example, has an incredible number of positive reviews for a long-distance moving company—nearly one star higher than some of the other top picks on this list. The best moving services London Ontario company also offers a variety of additional services, such as price-matching and 30 days of free storage. It’s worth noting, though, that the company’s positive reviews are largely based on one website.
While many of the best movers offer varying levels of insurance, all should carry liability coverage for the value of your items. In addition, some companies offer additional protection, such as guaranteed replacement cost. While these extras can add to the cost of your move, they can be well worth the peace of mind.
The rules of etiquette for tipping movers vary, but the general rule is to tip at least 15% of the total bill, says Sharon Schweitzer, founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide. When determining your tip, take into account how hard the workers worked. For example, if they had to lift heavy items or navigate tight spaces, the higher the tips should be.
To find the best movers, you should always get multiple quotes and compare them to each other. This will give you a good idea of how much each company is charging and what their service level is. It’s also a good idea to consider senior discounts. Many companies, such as Allied Van Lines, Mayflower and North American Van Lines, offer these, which can significantly cut the cost of your move.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the best movers tend to book up quickly, especially during the summer. If you can, try to move during the fall or winter to avoid the rush. If you’re moving within New York City, for example, many of the top NYC movers—including Piece of Cake Moving and Storage and Veteran Movers—have specialized services that cater to big-city moves. These include a range of discounts and flexible cancellation policies.
When it comes to interstate moving, check that your mover is licensed and insured in your state. Some states regulate interstate movers, while others don’t. It’s also a good idea for an interstate moving company to be a member of the American Moving & Storage Association. This ensures that the company has undergone a rigorous background check and adheres to a code of ethics.