Finding reputable commercial movers in Garland, Texas, requires careful research and consideration. How much does a mover cost in Garland? It depends on several factors, including the distance of the move, the volume and weight of the items, and any additional services such as packing or storage.
If you want to be sure that the company handling your move is reliable and reputable, follow these helpful steps:
Conduct an In-Depth Investigation
Thoroughly research any moving company you’re considering. A dependable moving company will be open about their experience, qualifications, and customer feedback. So, if it’s hard to find details about a company, that could be a red flag.
Investigate online reviews, Better Business Bureau ratings, and news articles. Read social media comments and see if they are adequately addressing customer concerns. Consistent positive or negative comments can give you a clearer picture of the company’s reputation. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration also provides a database of interstate movers with details like the company’s headquarters location, contact information, licensing status, and any history of customer or safety complaints.
Make Sure You’re Not Hiring a Broker
Unlike moving companies, brokers are not licensed to transport your possessions; rather, they sell your booking to an actual moving company. This adds risk as you can’t choose the company handling your belongings, and assigning liability in the event of damage can be an issue.
Brokers often provide inaccurate phone estimates, leading to unexpected costs. It’s safer to partner directly with a moving company.
Check Licensing and Insurance
Any reliable moving company will have proper workers’ compensation insurance and a license from the US Department of Transportation (you can check this online). Don’t hire movers without these credentials, as it could mean they work part-time, can’t afford insurance, or just haven’t bothered to get it.
This is important to consider because if a worker gets injured while moving your belongings and the company isn’t insured, you could be held responsible for their medical costs. Ask the moving company for an ‘Insurance Certificate’ to prove that they are insured. If they hesitate or provide outdated information, consider it a warning sign and move on to a different company.
Reputable interstate movers should also have a U.S. DOT number, which can be verified on the FMCSA’s website. Ask about valuation options–full-value protection might be more expensive, but it can offer peace of mind.
Look for Professional Accreditation
Professional accreditation is an essential factor to consider when choosing a moving company. Trade associations conduct a rigorous vetting process before granting a company membership or their approval seal.
One esteemed group is the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). If a moving company carries the AMSA’s ProMover logo, this means that the company has met specific standards and ethical guidelines set by the association and adheres to industry best practices.
The ProMover accreditation ensures that the moving company abides by a strict code of ethics, is transparent in its business practices, and is committed to reducing moving fraud. AMSA provides helpful resources on their site, Moving.org, where you can directly search for approved moving companies.
Visit The Company’s Physical Address
A legitimate brick-and-mortar location is a positive sign of a company’s stability and commitment to local customers. After completing your online checks, visit the moving company’s physical office. A reliable mover should have a business address and be happy to discuss their services with you in person.
Steer clear of companies without a physical address, as they could be hard to locate if issues arise. During your visit, observe whether the office is neat, clean, and clutter-free. Pay attention to the staff’s attitude–are they friendly and professional, or are they rude or distant? Check the condition of the moving trucks. Are the trucks well-maintained, or do they appear noticeably worn out?
Review the Cancelation Policy
A moving company’s cancellation policy can reveal several red flags. Excessive cancellation fees should raise suspicion. It’s not unusual for companies to impose a fee for cancellations close to the move date, but exorbitant charges could indicate a less trustworthy company.
If the company doesn’t provide any refund, particularly for unrendered services, it should be viewed with suspicion. Before committing to any contract, make sure you clearly understand the company’s policies. If anything appears unfair or suspicious, it may be better to seek out somebody else.
Are you thinking of relocating? Let North Dallas Moving and Storage take the stress off your shoulders. Our team of skilled, reliable movers will expertly handle the planning, packing, and transporting of all your valued possessions. Fully licensed and insured, we’re committed to providing you with a hassle-free moving experience. Get in touch with us to get a free quote today!
