“I have made the decision to move across the country. I am looking for a cross-country mover that is reliable, efficient, and affordable. I have looked online and found a few movers that meet my criteria. I will call them to get pricing information and see if they can schedule a time for me to come and take a look at their facilities. I am hoping to find a mover that can help me with the entire process, from packing up my belongings to delivering them to my new home.”
Does this sound like you right now?
If so, you are not alone. Every year, many people find themselves in the same position as they prepare to move across the country. It can be a long, arduous, and challenging task, but it doesn’t have to be. If you know what to look for when selecting a cross country mover, you can make the process much easier on yourself.
Cross-country moving contains many variables to consider, but it can be a smooth process with the proper planning. One of the more vital aspects of organizing a cross-country move is choosing the right moving company. There are many things to contemplate when selecting a moving company, but here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Price
It is imperative to get an estimate from several different movers and compare prices. Be sure to ask about any hidden fees, such as fuel surcharges or packing fees.
Hidden Fees
Hidden fees can include fuel surcharges, shuttle rates that vary depending on your shipments size, long carry fees, and bulky charges. If a mover says all it includes is “unlimited miles” but charges for storage and exceeding some weight threshold, that would be considered a hidden fee.
When looking for a mover, it is essential to ask what you can expect to spend. Some movers may take the lazy path of lying by omission and then blame you for not reading the fine print in the quote clearly enough.
Read Up On Your Contract
While you are responsible for reading everything you are expected to sign, the movers have an equal responsibility to be transparent with you.
After all, they stand to lose just as badly in the forum of public opinion if you write a scathing review following your move! Ensure that you get an estimate in writing and know what is included in the price.
Shop Around For Variety
Movers are often in high demand, so it’s important to start your search early. Be prepared to get estimates from at least three different companies and always read the fine print. A reputable firm will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
Experience
It is important to opt for a moving company that has experience with long-distance moves. They will have the knowledge and resources necessary to make your move go smoothly.
Cleaner Doesn’t Mean Experienced.
When selecting a cross-country mover, be sure to do your research. Many times, it can be easy to be fooled by a company’s shiny new trucks and clean uniforms. However, just because a company looks prim and proper doesn’t mean that they are experienced…it just means they know how to look presentable!
Make sure to ask for references and read online reviews to get an idea of what others have experienced with the company.
The Longer, The Better
A company with only a handful of years of actual experience may not be the best option. Instead, look for an enterprise that has been in business for at least the better part of a decade and has a proven track record.
You can ensure that you select the best cross-country movers by doing your research.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure the moving carrier you select is licensed and insured. This will safeguard your belongings in case something goes wrong during the move.
When selecting a cross-country mover, be sure to ask for proof of licensing and insurance. A credible company will be only too happy to supply this information.
Certificate of Insurance
Your apartment building may request a certificate of insurance from your mover. Your mover should have no qualms about providing this document. This certificate proves that your mover has liability insurance if any damage is done to your belongings during the move. Be sure to ask your mover for this certificate before hiring them.
Are Your Goods Insured?
When selecting a cross-country mover, it is important to ask them how your belongings will be insured. Many movers will offer full value coverage for an additional cost.
However, some movers will only offer basic liability coverage. It is important to establish that you are fully protected in case of damage or loss if you are transporting precious items.
Reputation
Check the mover’s reputation on the Better Business Bureau and online review sites.
Experience VS Reputation
Experience means that someone has done this before. Reputation means people say they are good, and then you can decide if they are or not when they come.
Movers may have many years of experience, but that does not always translate into having a good reputation. Some movers may have a poor reputation due to poor customer service or damage to belongings. It is essential to research different movers and read reviews before selecting one.
Consumer Advocacy Sites
There are a few online resources that you can use to research a mover’s reputation. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is one of the most well-known resources, and it allows consumers to rate and review businesses. You can also peruse online review sites like Yelp or Google Reviews.
DOT Movers Directory
The Department of Transportation’s Movers Directory is the ultimate measuring stick for determining if a particular mover is right for you or not. The directory provides comprehensive, unbiased information on movers across the country. It also allows you to compare quotes and read reviews from other customers.
Services offered
Be sure to ask about the services offered by the mover, such as packing, loading, and unloading.
Movers can offer a range of different services, depending on what you need:
Full Pack Service
Some movers offer full pack servicing, which will include packing up all of your belongings for you. This can be practical if you find yourself strapped for time before your move date and can afford to fork out a little extra to have the professionals box up your worldly possessions for you.
Wooden Crating
They may also offer wooden crating for valuable items, which will provide extra protection against damage during transit.
Some items, such as fine china or glassware, may require wooden crates for protection. Valuable artwork will certainly require wooden crating. In fact, your insurance provider may insist upon it, so be sure to ask your mover about this service ahead of time.
Padding and Blanketing
Other items, such as furniture, may not require wooden crates but will be packed tightly with blankets, bubble wrap, and padding. This will help to safeguard your furniture from any bumps or bruises during the move.
Loading and Unloading
Be sure to ask about the mover’s loading and unloading procedures. Some movers will provide their own staff to load and unload your belongings, while others will subcontract this work to a third party. It is important to know who will be handling your belongings and what kind of training they have received.
Storage
If you need to set aside your belongings for a period of time after the move, ask the mover about their storage options. Many movers offer short-term and long-term storage solutions.
If you’re looking for a cross-country move, it’s important to ask your mover if they offer storage free of charge for a period of time. This will give you the opportunity to get settled in your new home before you have to fret about finding a place to store your belongings.
Special Requirements
If you have any special requirements, such as requiring a certain type of truck or storage facility, be sure to let the mover know.
If your driveway can only be accessed by a particular sized truck, tell the mover ahead of time so they can be prepared. This will help ensure that your moving experience goes as smoothly as possible.
Timeline
Be sure to ask about the mover’s availability and how long they think the move will take.
You might be surprised that the national average time for a cross-country delivery is 1-14 business days. And when you start talking to your movers, it’s important to ask them why their estimate is different.
Expedited Delivery
If you are in a rush to have your items delivered, you can request expedited delivery from your cross-country movers. This will ensure that your items will be delivered by the date you need them. However, it is important to note that there will be an additional cost associated with this service.
Moving Company Policies
Be sure to familiarize yourself with every moving company’s policies, such as their refund policy and insurance coverage.
Booking Deposit
When selecting a cross-country mover, it is important to be aware that they may all demand different deposit amounts to reserve your move. Some movers may require a deposit amount as low as $100, while others may require up to 50% of the total cost of the move. It is important to be aware of these differences so that you can budget appropriately and select a mover that is within your price range.
Cancellation
When selecting a cross country mover, it is important to be aware of their cancellation policies. Some movers will require you to cancel your move at least a certain number of days in advance, while others may not have any cancellation policy at all. It is important to be aware of these policies before you sign any contracts, as you don’t want to be stuck with a mover that you can’t cancelled.
Re-Scheduling
If you have to postpone your moving plans for any reason, it’s essential to work with a cross-country moving company that is flexible with your schedule. Some companies may charge you extra if your plans change, but Green Planet Movers will not.
We appreciate and understand that things come up, and plans sometimes have to be changed. We are here to help you every step of the way, so please don’t hesitate to contact us if something comes up.
Making The Right Decision On Your Cross Country Mover
When it comes time to select a cross-country mover, it is important to do your research. By asking the right questions, you can be sure that you are making the best decision for your needs.
If you have any questions, please don’t delay in contacting us. We would be happy to help you in any way we can.
Green Planet Movers has many years of experience in the moving industry. We are a family-owned and operated business, and we take pride in our reputation for providing quality service. We firmly believe that communication is essential for a successful move, and we will work with our clients each and every step of the process to ensure that your move is as stress-free as possible.
