Moving — whether you want to go or not can be a very nerve wracking, time consuming and back breaking chore to undertake. There is the boxing and packing of items, the moving and lifting of boxes, the stacking, un-stacking and restacking of those same boxes. You haul them out to the truck, into the truck, out of the truck and into the new place. It's exhausting just to think about.
If you would prefer to actually enjoy your new location and would like to get there without a back injury, it is time to think about hiring a professional moving service. Whether you are moving a home or a business, across town or across the country, a pro can get the job done easier, faster and safer than you can. Here are some questions to ask the moving company when you start calling them:
- Have you been in business long (very important, especially if it is not a nationally known chain)
- Are you licensed, bonded and insured?
- Are you reasonably priced?
- What is your exact level of service? (Some companies will only allow their crews to bring items into the home and then set them down. Others will move heavy items into the correct room if asked to)
- Do you do breakdown and set up? (Breaking down some furniture is necessary to be able to fit everything in the truck. It involves unscrewing or taking apart the item).
- Are you a member of the Better Business Bureau or other professional organization?
Once you find the moving service that has all of the right answers to the above questions it will be time to discuss what you need from them and the rates for those services. In some cases it might be possible to lower the rate that you pay by doing some of the work ahead of time, including the break down. Some companies insist that the breakdown be done by their own crews or they will no longer insure the item.
When you speak to the moving company, ask for tips to keep your items safe, to save time and to make sure that nothing gets lost. Many companies offer their own tips in a brochure or on their website so that moving is less stressful and less of a strain for the entire family.