You want to take time to select the right moving company. You’ve probably heard horror stories about disreputable moving companies, so you don’t want to just pick any name out of the phone book. Get recommendations whether your move is local or you need a long distance moving company. Even if you are a tight budget, don’t let cheap moving companies influence your selection process. You’ll want choose from among the best moving companies to handle your particular needs.

Once you have a few recommendations make an appointment to have a salesperson or agent come out to give you an estimate. No one can give you an accurate figure of the cost of your move over the phone. You’ll want to get at least two to three quotes. Also keep in mind, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to start getting moving companies quotes– about two months in advance – since good companies book up.

You will find among the many local moving companies as well as long distance services vary. Some companies charge on an hourly rate; some by estimated volume based on the number of rooms in your current residence and others by the estimated weight of your load. Also ask about insurance since most moving companies will offer several options to cover broken, damaged or lost items. Coverage can vary from replacement cost to actual cash value or price per pound. If your own homeowners insurance cover moving damages, you’ll want some type of plan based on the value – both real and personal – of your household items.

Find out if there could be potential additional charges and under what circumstances so there won’t be any disputes on the actual move-in day. Common reasons for additional charges include lack of parking space. If the new location doesn’t have sufficient parking, the moving company will add ‘extra carry charges.” If your new location doesn’t have elevators and the movers need to carry your belongings up stairs, they may also charge for that. Any stops along the way to pick up additional items also will incur more charges.

Also ask how the company handles complaints, who your point of contact is how payment should be made. Most don’t accept personal checks but some accept credit cards.

Your Final Selection

Before making your final selection of moving companies, check with the Better Business Bureau or your state’s Department of Consumer Affairs to see if grievances have been filed against the company. Also check with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to find out if your potential mover is registered with the Department of Transportation.

Once you make your decision, the moving company will provide you with a written contract or estimate that outlines all the details of the move including proposed date of move, pick up and delivery address, and an itemized description of all costs and services. Before you sign the estimate or contract, make sure all the services you requested are included.