Moving to a new home can be a stressful experience. If you are searching for a professional moving company in Casper, Wyoming, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Dams Moving, we will be sharing tips to consider when hiring a professional moving company. If you are interested in learning more, we encourage you to keep scrolling below to find out.
You must be cautious when selecting a moving company. With numerous moving companies available, choosing the best one can be a challenging task. You don’t want to end up hiring a scam moving company that overcharges you for their services. Here are the tips to consider when hiring a professional moving company.
Research Moving Companies
Moving scams are common nowadays. You must ensure that the company you choose to work with is legitimate. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find a reputable moving company:
- Create a list of moving companies: Begin by making a list of moving companies you’re interested in. You can ask friends and family for recommendations, and also search online.
- Check their websites: Visit the websites of your potential prospects. Look for information about their services, pricing, and coverage areas.
- Read reviews and testimonials: Investigate the company’s reputation by reading client testimonials and reviews. This will give you insights into the experiences of previous customers.
- Ask for references: Request references from the moving companies, and contact these clients to inquire about their moving experiences. Did they encounter any issues during their move?
- Visit the company if possible: If the moving company is located near you, consider visiting their office in person. This can help you gauge their professionalism and assess their equipment, such as moving vans or trucks.
- Check the Better Business Bureau: Research the company on the Better Business Bureau’s website to see if they have any complaints from previous clients.
- Verify licensing: Ensure the company has the necessary licenses to operate legally. This includes checking their motor carrier license information to confirm its accuracy.
- Interstate moving: If you’re moving to a different state, verify that the company is authorized for interstate moving.
By following these steps, you can better ensure that you’re selecting a reliable and reputable moving company for your relocation.
Request Estimates
When moving interstate, the charges can vary significantly based on factors such as the moving company’s pricing structure.
Some companies determine costs based on the weight of items to be moved, the distance to the new address, packing, unpacking, and additional services. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to obtain estimates from at least three different companies. Here’s how to go about it:
- Consult a relocation expert: Have a relocation consultant visit your home to assess your belongings and provide an estimate for the transportation costs.
- Estimate type: When considering a moving company, inquire about the type of estimate they offer. There are two common types – binding and non-binding estimates. A binding estimate ensures the final price won’t exceed the initial estimate, while a non-binding estimate could change based on the actual moving costs.
- Written estimates: Avoid accepting estimates provided over the phone. Request written estimates that detail the services to be provided and the associated costs before accepting any offers.
Obtain Insurance
When moving, especially across state lines, it’s essential to have insurance coverage in case your belongings are damaged during the process, especially delicate items that are more susceptible to breakage due to improper packing.
Different insurance packages are available, and your moving company should be able to assist you in selecting the most appropriate one. By having the moving company pack your items, you can ensure that you have coverage for any damaged goods.
The moving company will be responsible for a specified amount, which is usually determined by the shipment’s weight. This provides peace of mind that your items are protected during the move.
Review the Contract
When the moving company provides you with a bill of lading, it’s crucial to thoroughly check and understand the contents of the agreement before signing it. Retain a copy of the bill of lading, as it can serve as evidence in case of any issues. Once you sign the bill of lading, you are obligated to pay the specified amount. A comprehensive bill of lading should include the following:
- The mover’s name and address.
- Accepted methods of payment.
- Scheduled pickup and delivery times.
- Minimum and maximum payment amounts.
- Other essential payment details.
The contract must outline the company’s rates and charges, their liability for your belongings, the agreed-upon dates for pickup and delivery, and any claims protection.
Trust your instincts and ask questions if something in the contract appears unclear or questionable. If you notice any red flags, refrain from signing an agreement with that particular company. Be aware that moving company scams sometimes involve holding items hostage and coercing clients into paying additional, unjustified costs.
Move During Winter
If you have the flexibility to move during the winter season, you may find more competitive prices for moving services. On the other hand, if you opt for a move between June and September, which is the peak season for movers, it’s essential to call well in advance to request estimates. Be sure to carefully review the contract before signing it.
Check for Additional Services
A professional moving company like Dams Moving offers supplementary services, including packing, unpacking, the procurement of moving supplies, and pre- and post-move cleaning.
By taking advantage of these additional services, you can transform your moving experience into a stress-free and highly convenient endeavor. This allows you to focus on settling into your new home or even organizing activities like a farewell party to bid adieu to your neighbors.
Furthermore, it’s important to consider potential additional costs for moving specialty items such as a piano or valuable artwork. You may need to purchase extra insurance coverage to protect these high-value items during the move.
Don’t Pay a Substantial Deposit
A reputable moving company will not request a significant cash deposit upfront. Payment is typically expected upon delivery. Paying in advance can leave you vulnerable to potential scams, and there’s a risk you might not see your belongings again.
When making payments for moving services, it’s advisable to use a credit card as it provides you with a degree of protection against potential fraudulent activities.
Don’t Change Your Delivery Date
Once the moving company has collected your belongings, it’s important to stick to your scheduled delivery date. Altering the delivery date could lead to additional costs for storage. Make sure that you can move into your new home as planned to avoid incurring unnecessary storage fees.
Inspect All Your Belongings
Upon arriving at your new home, thoroughly inspect your belongings to check for any damage or losses. The moving company is responsible for any loss or damage to your items caused during transportation.
Examine your possessions to ensure nothing is missing or damaged, particularly the condition of boxes or packages. During the delivery, take time to cross-reference the inventory sheet to confirm that all items listed have been delivered as expected.
Are you in search of a professional moving company in Casper, Wyoming? Dams Moving is a reliable choice. We offer a range of services, including moving, packing and unpacking, providing moving supplies, and pre and post-move cleaning. Our services are available for both residential and commercial moves across the United States. Our professional team is comprised of skilled and efficient movers who can assist with packing and unpacking your items.
If you have any inquiries or questions about our services, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us at (307) 247-3928, and we’re available on short notice. When it comes to choosing a reputable professional moving company, Dams Moving is the right option. Why wait? Get in touch with us today!