We collect so many things throughout our lives and do not realize it until we have to pick it all up and move it to some other place. Furniture and other large objects become obstacles in this process, as we need the help of others to move such things. Friends and family often provide great help in the moving process, but unfortunately, they might not be around if one is moving across the country. Thankfully, there are people out there who do this type of thing professionally. Moving companies provide this service for a nominal charge and, in my opinion, it is worth the cost!
Looking through the phonebook in most cities, one can find a wide variety of moving companies to choose from. It is important to be very discerning when choosing someone to move one’s costly and sometimes priceless possessions. One should first ask their family, friends or co-workers if they know of a good company in the area. If provided with such a suggestion, one should call that company and inquire about pricing and availability. However, if a company is not recommended, the process becomes a little more involved. There are two things that one should look for specifically when hiring professional movers:
The first is whether or not the company is insured, and if so, what their insurance covers. Many companies will insure only damages that occur while one’s belongings are in transit, but not accidents that happen while the objects are in or around one’s home. Also, certain fragile items, such as antique furniture, may not be covered to its full, appraised value, but rather a pre-determined, generic value set by the insurance company for furniture. It is important to get all the facts from the company before even considering hiring them. In most cases, if the company one calls is not very forthcoming with information regarding their insurance, one probably does not want to hire them. Also, if a company charges an extra fee for insuring ones belongings, they too are probably not a good choice.
The second thing to look for when hiring a company to move one’s things is how they charge one for their services. Many companies will offer a flat rate based on the size of the moving van they are using and charge extra if everything does not fit. Other companies charge a rate based on the square footage of ones home plus the distance required to travel for the move. It is extremely important to get this information directly from the company before they are hired. One could end up with a surprisingly large moving bill if certain factors are not clear when the contract is signed.
Moving is a time-intensive and sometimes emotional process. If one can afford the cost, it is well worth it to have someone else deal with the labor and time involved with moving one’s belongings. However, moving companies should be thoroughly investigated before they are hired to make sure that one’s possessions are taken care of in such a way that one is satisfied with the results. Consult your local phonebook and good luck with your move!