Moving is the 3rd most stressful experience people endure, so doing a little homework and applying some common sense is well worth it. Jim Rueda, the owner of Moving Right Along Moving & Storage, suggests the following:
Steps To Take:
- Check that the mover prints his license # and local address on forms or advertisements.
- Walk or drive by the offices or warehouse to ensure their existence and to see if they are in poor condition.
- Or visit online through google earth
- Be aware how the mover answers his phone. He should clearly state his company name and not with a generic “movers” or “moving company”.
- Check out the mover’s trucks – a company with nothing but the company name on the doors or a rental truck may signal a firm that frequently changed names to avoid customer complaints.
- Ask the mover for a Certificate of Insurance. (A detail of his coverages)
Beware If:
- The mover demands a deposit before the move.
- Mover refuses an onsite inspection.
- You can’t meet or speak with the owner.
- Estimate falls far below others.
- The mover claims that all goods are covered by their basic insurance.
- The mover can’t give you names and telephone numbers of satisfied customers.
Make sure that the mover you choose can provide you with a WORKMAN’S COMPENSATION CERTIFICATE (This is the coverage that prevents you from being sued in the event that someone gets hurt) and also a CARGO INSURANCE POLICY (this proves that your furniture is really insured if something gets lost or damaged).
Important resources to verify a mover’s license # and reputation:
DOT – (800) 786-5368, www.newyork.bbb.org and www.safersys.org for insurance and safety records.
Reach us at (718) 738-2468 should you have any additional questions, concerns or would like to receive our packing tips e-mail.
DON’T FORGET — A LOAD WITH US IS A LOAD OFF YOUR MIND
