To prevent an abundance of moving stress, you need to hire a quality mover. This requires more than just searching “moving companies St Louis MO,” however.
Services
First, you should determine what services you need. For example, are you moving in town or across the country? Will you be moving general goods, or do you have items that require specialized packing materials and equipment, such as cars, gun safes, hot tubs or pool tables? Will you need temporary storage? Identify anything that may be out of the ordinary in your move.
Look for movers with the specialization and equipment to move all your things. Tell them during your walk through about any unusual moving requirements.
Research
Find out how long each company has been in business. In addition, learn about the licensing and insurance. Check out the testimonials and references as well as the services offered on the company’s website. Also, verify their addresses.
Look over the company’s website carefully, but don’t stop there. Check their rating and unresolved claims on the Better Business Bureau. You may also check the American Moving and Storage Association. Ask for their Department of Transportation number and verify it. Find about any professional accreditation or memberships.
Estimates and Fees
Ask for a walk-through estimate from at least three companies. Ask about their fees or deposit requirements. Some companies may charge to move your things up stairs or using elevators or on narrow streets.
Consider charging any up-front costs to a credit card so you are able to dispute any charges if something goes wrong during the move.
Contracts
Moving contracts are based on the estimate you receive. However, they may be non-binding, where you may be charged up to 10% more than your original estimate; non-binding to exceed, which prevents the company from charging you more than they estimated; and binding estimates, which guarantee your price for moving your things and any additional services, such as unpacking, that you request during the estimate process.
Don’t let moving stress overwhelm you. With a little time and effort, you can have a smooth, somewhat stress-free move.