By A Moving Company, also known as movers or removalists, is a business that provides all-inclusive services for residential and commercial relocations. They typically specialize in local, long distance and interstate moves as well as warehousing and storage. When selecting a Moving Company, consumers should look for companies with years of experience and customer referrals. Consumers should also double-check the company’s credentials, including their U.S. Department of Transportation number for interstate moves and state-specific licenses for local moves. Additionally, consumers should review their movers’ terms and conditions, delivery windows and insurance options.
When comparing Moving Companies, consumers should identify their specific moving needs and budget. Determine whether they require specialized moving services, need extra storage or other related services. Once the specifics are clear, consumers can focus on finding a company that seamlessly meets those needs in-house or through trusted affiliate partners. Identifying a mover that offers cost incentives or binding/not-to-exceed quotes may help them stay within a given budget.
A Local Move
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration FMCSA defines a local move as a relocation within the same state, less than 100 miles. This type of move typically requires fewer services and is often completed within a day or two. Consumers should ensure the Moving Company they choose is licensed and insured for local moves.
An Interstate Move
For an interstate move, the FMCSA recommends working with a full service Clutch Moving Company that offers packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, furniture assembly or disassembly and storage. In addition, the Moving Company should provide all necessary shipping materials. Full service Moving Companies typically charge more than brokers, but their extensive work will likely be worth the additional expense.
Identifying the right Moving Company for a long distance move requires more research than for a local move. First, the mover should be licensed and insured in the states they operate in. Additionally, the mover should be certified by the FMCSA as an interstate moving carrier. This certification confirms the company adheres to commercial regulations governing interstate transport of household goods.
In addition to these requirements, the FMCSA recommends comparing multiple moving companies’ reviews and credentials. Be wary of a company with no physical address or office and those that do not offer a free estimate or consultation. Additionally, consumers should familiarize themselves with Red Flag Indicators of Moving Fraud and review a Moving Fraud Prevention Checklist to minimize their risk of becoming a victim of fraud. Finally, the FMCSA suggests asking a prospective Moving Company for a copy of their liability insurance policy and checking its status through your state’s business information website. Moving companies that do not provide these documents are probably fraudulent and should be avoided. Moving fraud is a prevalent issue and can result in significant financial losses for consumers. In some cases, consumers may be able to file claims with the appropriate agency. If the claim is successful, the moving company will reimburse the claimant for their loss.
