Moving can be a hassle, but the right company can help make it as painless as possible. The best movers are licensed and insured to handle moves, know New York City’s idiosyncratic rules and regulations, and offer options that let customers customize the move experience. They’re also experts at handling specialty items like car shipping, fragile pack or specialty services and storage.
In addition to up-front pricing, the best movers also provide excellent customer service. They respond to online reviews, provide an accurate home survey and pricing estimate, and are transparent about their fees. They also offer a variety of payment options and flexible scheduling to accommodate busy customers. And, they’re committed to safety and ensuring their employees have proper training to protect the items in their care.
Full-service moving companies calculate costs based on the weight of the items to be moved, but there are other factors that can impact the total cost, too. For example, many companies require a home walk-through in person or via a virtual survey to ensure an accurate quote and avoid hidden costs. In addition, customers can expect to pay more if the move involves multiple flights of stairs, requires access to tight corners or elevators, or includes high-value or large items such as a safe or hot tub.
While some customers opt for a DIY approach to their mn moving company, others want the assistance of professional movers. In these cases, a moving broker is a good choice. These companies act as middlemen and hand the move over to a carrier to complete the transport. They’re also more likely to be transparent about their pricing and provide a variety of moving insurance options, including customizable full value protection.
The best movers also have an easy claims process. They provide a simple form on their website, and they have dedicated telephone numbers for different types of questions. For instance, they have a specific number for international movers, and they also offer a specialized claims team for high-value or antique items. They’re also more likely to offer a fixed or binding estimate.
A full-service moving company that’s a member of the Better Business Bureau receives additional points for transparency, and the best movers also have a variety of add-on services. For example, some provide free wardrobe boxes on moving day, and others include a flat rate with real-time price accuracy on their MyFlatRate app. Additionally, some movers have an online calculator that estimates how much a move will cost and offer vehicle relocation and storage services. A few movers even offer free moving quotes and estimates for a home inventory. Allied Van Lines, for example, has nearly a century of experience and offers a full selection of full-service moving options as well as add-ons. Its standout feature, however, is its streamlined process for reporting damage, loss or theft to the BBB. The company also provides a detailed list of tips and resources on its website, such as packing guides and information about shipping wine collections.