Millions of people move each year. While most moves go smoothly, some do not. Fortunately, you can prevent this from happening to you by hiring a reputable moving company. To do this, you must gather information about the companies you are considering, such as their MC and U.S. DOT numbers.

Experience

When customers choose a moving company, they will work with a business with a lot of experience. Unlike moving brokers, which hire third-party movers to handle the move, a full-service company will have employees trained and experienced in completing a local or long-distance relocation.

Additionally, a reputable moving company Austin has the equipment to handle and transport items safely. This includes straps, dollies, furniture pads, and protective floor and wall coverings that can reduce the risk of damage to items or the property. These tools can also help avoid back pain or muscle injuries during a move. As a result, hiring professionals can save money on medical bills and lost work days during the relocation process.

Equipment

The best furniture movers in Austin are fully equipped with all the necessary equipment for safe and efficient relocations. This includes moving dollies and hand trucks for transporting large items without risk of damage. They also provide comprehensive insurance coverage covering lost or stolen items during transit.

Always remember to read any contract carefully before making a payment. A reputable mover should have clear policies regarding deposits, cancellations, refunds, and other terms. This can help avoid any misunderstandings and potential legal action down the line. Additionally, you should verify the company’s licenses and credentials through federal or state resources. A reputable company will be more than happy to provide you with proof of their licensing and insurance. This can save you time and stress in the long run.

Reputation

It’s important to find a moving company that has a good reputation. Ask friends and family about their experiences, but also search online for reviews. If a mover has a bad reputation for overcharging or breaking items, it’s best to avoid them.

A reputable moving company will provide transparent quotes. Customers must provide an accurate inventory of their belongings during the quote process. This will help prevent surprise charges on moving days. In addition, customers should make sure the moving company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and has a Department of Transportation (DOT) number. The DOT number is used to verify the legitimacy of interstate moves and can be checked on the DOT website. 

Insurance

Whether moving from a walk-up apartment in Texas or an entire home in the suburbs, customers want to ensure their movers have the correct insurance coverage. The first step is to ask the moving company for proof of insurance. This can help avoid surprises on a moving day.

It’s also worth checking a company’s USDOT federal identification number to determine its level of liability coverage. Generally, this policy covers most household moves up to $0.60 per pound.

In addition, a company’s general liability coverage may be enhanced with an umbrella policy. This policy covers damages above what a company would typically experience in particular situations, such as an accident that causes seven-figure losses to a third party. It can also protect against damage caused by inclement weather, including hail and lightning.

Customer Service

Professional movers know that moving is stressful and are dedicated to making the process easy for their clients. For example, they offer a free quote that clarifies pricing and services, so there are no surprises on moving day.

They also help customers prepare for their move by providing checklists and guidance on packing and organizing items. This can save time and money and prevent injuries from lifting and loading heavy boxes. For customers who are moving to a new country, they have expertise in customs clearance and can help their clients avoid delays. This is especially important for a large shipment that needs to clear customs quickly.

Jane