Warning Signs When Choosing Cross Country Moving Companies
Moving across the country is such an emotionally draining event, and the last thing you need is to choose a company that does not handle your move well. When you are looking for cross country moving companies, take some time to meet with them and do a little background research. Heed the warning signs or gut feelings you have about some cross country moving companies you meet with. If their estimates seem too good to be true, they probably are.
All reputable cross country moving companies will be insured and licensed. For interstate moves, companies will also have a registration number from the US Department of Transportation. When you call cross country moving companies to set up initial meetings for estimates, ask for those details. If they do not offer them or the data does not match up with what you see on their web site or elsewhere, that is a red flag. Most good moving companies will want to meet with you in person at your home to see first hand how much household goods you plan to move. It is very difficult to provide an estimate of weight over the phone. If any cross country moving companies will not meet you in person, cross them off your list of contenders. Moving companies are required by the federal government to give you a 'Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move' pamphlet. If a mover does not have one and does not ever send one to you, cross them off your list. Good cross country moving companies will give you a list of references. If you call those references and most will not answer or return your calls, that is a warning sign. If a moving company wants to only deal in cash or asks for a large amount of cash up front, that is another red flag. When you call the main number for the company, make sure the office staff is responsive and informed. If they seem unorganized or unprofessional, you probably do not want to hire them.
After you meet with some cross country moving companies and you do not see any warning signs, do a little background research. See if there are any reviews on the web about the company. Make sure there are no unresolved disputes filed with the Better Business Bureau. And ask around to see if anyone has any experience with the cross country moving companies you are considering. Heed the warning signs and follow your instincts.