7 Important Questions to Ask Moving Companies Before Hiring One

If you’ve decided to hire the expertise of professional movers, how do you know you can trust them with all your worldly possessions? 

The key is to do your research beforehand, as with any significant life decision. Here are some questions to ask moving companies before you hire them.

Questions to Ask Moving Companies

1. How Long Have You Been in Business? 

Just because a moving business has a long business history doesn’t always mean their services are superior. But generally, the longer a company has been in operation, the more experience they have in different types of home moves. The only way to gauge this is through a proven track record of success and satisfaction. Don’t be shy to ask for references so you can research their track record.

2. What Company Licenses Do You Hold?

Confirm that the moving company has the proper licensing.

Federal law mandates that professional moving companies that work across state lines be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Interstate movers should provide a copy of their federal tariff if you request it.

In addition, check with the FMCSA to see if that particular moving company is up-to-date with their operating license.

3. Is Your Business Fully Equipped? 

Make sure that the moving company you’re considering has all the necessary equipment for the job. This includes the right size moving truck(s), hoisting equipment, moving dollies, etc. Ideally, they should also have an inventory of specialist moving tools for specific items.  

4. What Are Your Rates?

A quality moving company will provide you with a quote for your move, and discuss any add-ons with you. The last thing you want is to learn that there were hidden fees connected with your move.

5. What Do You Charge for ”Extra” Services?

Extra services may include things like packing services, flight charges, long-haul transport fees, shuttle services, and storage-in-transit — not-to-mention fuel charges, fees for the disassembly, and assembling of furniture, handling special objects, etc.

Do a thorough check of what the company considers ”extra” services and how you’ll be charged. 

6. How Do You Prevent Damage to My Belongings? 

Preventing damage to your household goods should be a top priority for professional movers. So, how do they accomplish this?

Ask about preventative measures; how do they protect furniture and fragile items? To add to this, how do they protect both your new home and old home from damage? This includes areas such as the walls, skirting, railings, floors, and door frames. Do your research on all their preventative measures. 

7. Can You Provide References?

Ask your prospective moving company for references from residential moves like your own.

Also, do your own research and check Google, the Better Business Bureau, and Angie’s List to find a variety of reviews to provide you with a true impression of their business practices.

Looking For Reliable Movers? 

If you found this article on questions to ask moving companies insightful, then explore the rest of our blog for all the moving advice you’ll ever need. 

If you’re looking for reliable and professional movers, whether it’s residential or long distance, get in touch with us at Arrow Moving & Storage for a quote.

 

How to Move a TV Without Damaging It in Transit

There are over 120 million TVs in American households. If you’re moving soon, then chances are, you’re planning on bringing one or more TVs with you.

However, these are very fragile electronics that cost a bit to replace, so you want to make sure you move it correctly.

Read on if you want to know how to move a TV without damaging it in transit.

Prep the Set

Before unplugging, disassembling, and packing your TV and accompanying electronics, take some photos of the set-up with your phone. Note how the cables are attached and plugged in. When you arrive at your new home, refer to the images for easy reassembly.

Then unplug the TV and various electronics such as the cable box, DVR, or Roku. Dust off your TV and accompanying devices thoroughly with a soft microfiber cloth.

Pack Accessories Separately

If your TV has an attached base, remove it. Put the screws from the base in a baggie and keep it with the base.

Take any related accessories like the remotes, wires, and cords and put them in a separate, labeled box, so they’re all easier to find later. By removing all the loose parts, you’ll make your TV easier to pack and transport, as there’ll be nothing to get loose and possibly damage your TV.

Use the Original Box

The best way to move a TV is in the original box it came in. After all, the manufacturer shipped it safely in that box, which means it’s meant to withstand the ruggedness of transport.

If you’ve saved the original packaging, then that’s the best TV shipping box to use. Moving a TV will be most manageable with this, as all you’ll have to do is fit it into the styrofoam parts, slide it back into the box, and tape it back up.

Use Specialty TV Moving Boxes

If you didn’t keep the original box, you could always buy flat-panel TV kits. These are available through your mover and other stores that sell boxes. Flat-panel TV kits are designed for various sizes and are specific to your TV’s dimensions. For most, they will hold TVs that are up to 70 inches wide and 1 to 4 inches deep.

Also, these come with foam edge protectors, which means once you slide your TV in the box, it’ll be well-protected for the move.

Avoid Using Regular Household Items

You might be tempted to save a bit of money by using regular household items to pack your TVs, such as a blanket or throw wrapped around the unit. But the reality is, a broken TV will negate the money you save by doing this in the end.

Moving a TV Safely

By knowing how to move a TV safely, you’ll be able to get your valued possession from point A to B in one piece.

If you need the help of some professional movers, then get in touch with us today. We can help both residents and businesses.