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What to Expect From a Moving Company

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A moving company is a service that helps customers transport their belongings to another location. It is a useful option for people who are not able to move their items themselves due to physical limitations, lack of time, or other reasons. Customers can find moving companies online, through the phone book or by asking friends and family for recommendations. They should always compare costs, ask movers lots of questions and get estimates in writing so they can be sure to understand the charges and aren’t overcharged. Customers should also check whether a company is licensed as a broker or carrier with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and evaluate reviews from several sources.

A full-service moving company provides boxes and containers, packing and wrapping materials, dollies, belts, padding, ropes, and a truck or van for transporting the customer’s moving company north york belongings. These companies are typically licensed and insured, and customers should ask about the insurance options. They should also be aware that the company may try to sell them additional services such as storage and/or cleaning of the home afterward, and they should avoid letting the salesperson pressure them into purchasing these extras.

Full-service movers charge by the hour and usually send two employees to the house. The number of hours charged depends on the size of the household and the amount of items to be transported. They might also charge extra for stairs or other challenges at the residence. In addition, the cost of moving varies depending on the season. Weekends, holidays, and summer are busy times for movers and may have higher rates.

The moving company should give the customer a nonbinding estimate of the costs, which will be valid for 30 days. During that time, the customer can change the original estimate. The company should notify the customer of the date, time and place of the weighing. The customer can choose to be present during the weighing, or they can request that the mover weigh the shipment at their convenience.

The company must also provide the customer with a copy of the “Order for Service” that lists all charges and specifies how much to pay at delivery. The customer should read the document carefully and keep a copy. If they have any concerns about the cost or any other terms of the contract, they can contact the mover or call the FMCSA to file a complaint. Customers should also ensure that the company has a current DOT and MC number, which can be found on the FMCSA website. This information will be useful if they are moving across state lines and want to check for safety issues or complaints against the company. Customers should also look at the mover’s insurance coverage, as many offer comprehensive policies to cover lost or damaged items. Then they can decide which company offers the best value for their money.