How To Tell If You Can Trust Your Mover.
By Mimi Bullock
Moving is much more personal and involved than it sounds. You're not just throwing a few things in boxes, you're transferring all your precious belongings from one address to another. To make this transfer successful you need the right team. Here's how to choose the mover that's right for you.

The Right Stuff


When you begin choosing a moving company, ask yourself whether this company can provide the services you need. More specifically, is your move local, cross country or international? Are you moving unusual objects like large artwork or an exhaustive home library? Is your moving candidate prepared to handle, wrap and transfer your specific type of move? Are you moving your home or your office? Will you be moving expensive office equipment or medical supplies?

Your mover needs to have the right stuff! You don't need to be the first move or the first attempt at a unique type of move for any moving company. Choose a mover who has experienced loading, transferring and unloading your specific type of furniture or equipment. The mover who normally moves only couches won't know a thing about the proper handling of a grand piano. Some movers list their specialties on their Web site, but it never hurts to ask specifically. Also, if they are moving you internationally, are they prepared to assist you in obtaining all the proper paperwork? Is your potential mover licensed? Does the mover carry or offer insurance? Consider these questions when choosing the mover that's right for you.

Experience Required

Don't depend on the 'likability' factor alone when picking a mover. You want a professional! If the mover takes pride in his or her work, it'll show. Ask for references and rely on experience before anything else. How many years does the mover have in the moving business? How long has your potential mover worked in your area? Does he or she have more than one office? A real key question to ask your mover is whether he or she will be subcontracting your move. Believe it or not, it happens. Be sure the mover you hire is the one who will show up on the big day.

Movers with a Reputation that Proceeds Them

If your mover will be handling your most precious possessions, you'll want to know if he or she has butterfingers. Does your potential mover or moving company have a good reputation? Or have you heard from former customers complaints of late arrivals and broken items? You absolutely want to hire a moving company that has your best interest in mind. Ask neighbors, acquaintances and co-workers about movers they recommend. Listen to the advice of people you trust and choose a reputable company. If you don't know anyone who has used a mover recently or your specific potential candidate then check local review blogs online. Don't rely alone on which mover has the best glossy ad. Ask for references and feedback from previous customers. A good moving company is one that cares about you, your belongings and providing you with the best quality service. Movers who care will be those who endure to the end of the move. They'll understand your anxieties and be prepared to answer legitimate concerns.

Quality of Labor and Equipment

In the South, you'll hear the saying, "You can judge a man by the truck he drives." When it comes to moving, this is true no matter where you live. Do your mover's trucks look well cared for, whether they are new or older models? Are they running properly and do they have all the proper paperwork? Professional movers use hydraulic lifts and often times chart how they will pack your materials. What materials will your mover be using? If you want a green, eco-friendly move, you don't want a mover who uses Styrofoam peanuts. Your mover may give you a choice on packing materials, but you won't know until you ask!

Choosing the right mover isn't an impossible dream. But you do have to do your homework. Take a deep breath and don't get in a hurry to sign on the dotted line. It'll be worth it when the last box is unloaded and nothing is lost or broken!
Mimi Bullock is a copywriter for Yodle Local, a business directory an online advertising company. Find more moving tips and info at Yodle Local. How to Tell If You Can Trust Your Mover.

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