Things to Know While Choosing the Local Movers

If you are planning to relocate or move to a new place, the work would seem to be tiresome and time consuming. Moreover you would also have many things to do other than just packing and moving. So when you are moving across the town or across the state, you would surely want things to be done smoothly and easily. Here comes the need to hire local movers since they are professionals and efficient.

When you are planning to hire local movers to shift your office or home, it is always better to get in touch with some reputed local movers well in advance. Usually most of the local moving companies would consider any move within a hundred mile radius as a local move only. It would be an intrastate move and the moving company would charge on an hourly basis. If they are providing extra services, extra charge would be put in.

As you take the services from a local mover, the company would send two representatives and a truck. These professional workers would be capable of packing your belongings in a way that it would not be damaged while being moved. While looking for local moving companies, it is better to find someone in the close vicinity of your house other than one located far away. This is because a company closer to your house would deal with you in a more comfortable way. This would be good for you as well as for the workers. Moreover, since they are closer to your home, they would be easily available to guide you through the moving process and also help you out in case of any problems. Plus it is economical to hire local movers from your locality and you can save lots of money.

Certain things should be noted as the local moving company representatives come to your place. The first and foremost thing to be sought should be their license. They should complete the necessary document work with complete insurance. Make sure to ask for their proof of license before they start doing the work. Since the professional movers would be dealing with your personal belongings, it is good to ask for their identity proof in advance. You can be assured that your items would be treated nicely if have hired a reputed moving company. It is also important to check whether the movers are registered with the local authorities. This would ensure proper dealings if by any chance some dispute or damages occur.

Taking references from friends, family and neighbors is a good way to ensure the authenticity of the movers. Ask for references and see if anyone had already taken services from a particular moving company. You can also check for the testimonials and get reviews from Better Business Bureau even. It is advisable to verify and cross check at least three or four references. Also find out if any issues have happened and how the company has resolved it. It is extremely important to have everything in writing from the local movers. Estimates as well as well any information should be documented.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maryfollett_Adams

Moving And Relocating - Which Type Of Moving Service Is Right For You?

If you are moving or relocating, there are a number of different moving options you can choose from. However, which one suits your requirements best? This short article examines the pros and cons of a number of different types of moving service, thereby allowing you to decide which one is right for you.

The professional moving service

The professional moving service is the one that comes to mind for most people when moving house. With this type of moving service there is virtually nothing to do on your part. Your movers pack your belongings, do the physical moving and do the unloading at the other end.

The main advantage of this type of service is a lot of the hassle is taken out of the moving process for you. However this may also be a disadvantage if you prefer to pack your own belongings in order to take maximum care of them, or, if your are trying to move on a budget.

Renting a moving truck

Renting a moving truck is one way of doing the job yourself, instead of hiring a professional moving company as described above.

The main advantage to this type of moving is that you should be able to save a few dollars. It also means that you are totally in control of your moving schedule.

If you are considering this type of service, you should also be aware of some of the potential disadvantages. For example, you may need to get an additional driving licence and insurance to drive the moving truck. You should also make sure you feel confident about driving a vehicle of this size.

Moving Equipment

If you are planning to rent a moving truck, then you may also need to hire some moving equipment if the company does not supply it. For example, you will almost certainly require dollies for lifting, and depending on what else has been supplied, you may also need ramps, ropes, padding and strapping to protect you belongings. All of these items can be rented from moving companies if necessary.

Self-service moving

Self-service moving is an ideal option if you prefer to pack your own belongings but are not comfortable with the idea of renting and driving a moving truck.

With self-service moving, a large container is dropped off at your house by the company. When you have loaded it yourself, you then arrange for it to be picked up, sometimes several weeks later. A professional driver then turns up to drive your container to its final destination for you to unpack at the other end.

The advantages of self-service moving are that you do not have to worry about driving a truck, or arranging the additional insurance or licensing.

PODS moving

The acronym "PODS" stands for "portable storage on demand" and this type of moving is a cross between a moving truck and a storage container. It is very similar to self-service moving, but this particular company claims to have a number of distinct advantages.

Some of these advantages are as follows: very competitive prices, special lifting equipment (so as not to disturb the contents of the container, once packed), and easy access to storage if required.

Storage

Whenever you are planning to move, you should always consider whether you require storage, and make plans as appropriate. It is always better to be prepared, rather than have to make plans later in a panic.

International moving

If you are moving overseas, then you will need the services of an international mover. Not only can this type of company help you with the physical transfer of your property, they also offer many value added services as well.

Conclusion

It is important to evaluate what your moving requirements are before deciding which type of moving service to opt for. Do you have a budget to stick to? Do you have any time constraints? Are you happy to drive a moving truck? Etc. Armed with answers to questions like these and the information above, you should be well on the way to making the right decision when it comes to deciding which is the best moving service for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Craske

Finding a Competent Moving Services Provider

People faced with a relocation often wonder just how best to choose a moving services provider. Although getting moving quotes from several companies is a good indicator of the kind of service you might expect from a moving services provider, it is not the only element on which people should base their decision when choosing a mover. In fact, there are a number of ways to determine just how competent your moving services provider is and just how much support you will be given during your move. Let us take a look as what you can look for in a moving services provider.

Marketing

The way in which a company markets itself is a good indicator of what you can expect from a relocation services supplier. Everything from the advertising used in print and online media to the uniforms worn by the movers who show up at your door point to a professionalism and reputation that a moving services provider will want to protect. A company does not have to be big to provide exceptional service - it does need to display a pride in their service that is reflected in how they present their business to the public.

Politeness

The first impression most people have of a moving services provider is the one made by the agent who fields your call of inquiry. Whether you contact the moving services supplier online or look them at in a traditional print directory, you will have to pick up the phone and call them at some point to finalise your contract. When this happens, the way in which you call is fielded will say a lot about the mover. If the person taking the call is polite, informed and interested, then you can expect good service. However, if the agent is rude, bored and cannot answer basic questions about services and cost, then you should definitely consider taking your business elsewhere. Agents should be aware of what is happening and if they are not, then it means that the company tolerates a poor performance from its employees.

Cost

Cost is generally a reflection of the size of a moving company. The larger companies tend to give higher moving quotes while the smaller, more local companies tend to have lower estimates. The larger companies tend to have a much stricter corporate structure in place when it comes to policy and procedure than smaller companies and so there is a better chance of getting good service. Naturally, that does not mean that you will not get good service from a smaller moving company, but it does mean that you cannot expect the same kind of service from both moving services providers. Smaller companies tend to offer more personalised service, which is a big bonus for some people who prefer a softer touch in their dealings with their relocation provider.

Word-of-mouth

If you do not hear flattering things about your moving services provider, then you can expect similar service for your relocation. While it is true that what sometimes works for one person will not work for someone else, if you hear complaints about a service then you might want to find out what other people have to say as well before making a decision. Looking up the moving services provider online will generally result in forums where you can see what others have to say about their service.

Finding a moving services provider can be a tough decision to make. However, if you get several moving quotes and do just a little bit of research then you will definitely make the right decision.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_J._Freeman

How to Find Reliable Movers

Having moved three times from one place to another, I guess I can say that I know what it feels like to be planning a move, packing your things, having them transported to your new place, and then unpacking them again. It's really not a fun chore, but still something that should be done.

Well, it helped us unload some of our stuffs, too, to be given to charity (like some old clothes and toys); we even left some of our furniture in some of the houses since we know that we wouldn't be needing them. With the home owner's permission, of course. They were glad they had additional furniture for their house.

It's important that once you decide to move, you get a very reliable, reputable mover, like the Toronto Movers. I am just sad that we are quite far from them now, since they'd have done much better than the one that we got the last time! It wasn't really that terrible, but there were some mishaps that wouldn't have occurred if we've gotten a much better (though most probably more expensive), moving company. But now that I know, I believe that choosing the best possible movers for you and your things is more important than the amount since that way you will encounter less stress.

Some things to look for in a good mover are the following:

* The moving company should first of all reliable. Check their status on BBB, through the internet, ask for references and do not omit to inquire on other people experience with the considered mover on dedicated forums. Almost everyone has a record with e-opinions and BBB and the selected moving company should be able to reflect on their status with these organizations.

* The considered moving company must know how to properly arrange your things in the truck so that your plants won't get crushed, your boxes don't get squashed and your furniture does not get scratched. The company must assume the responsibility for all and any eventual damages, scratches left on the walls of your house.

* They must have a fully equipped furniture van: moving blankets, shrink wrap, moving dollies, floor runners are a must. An industry standard are the wardrobe boxes that are either included in the price or come at a rental fee.

* Their service crew should be professionals and fully qualified.

* The mover must be very clear as to how you will be billed, offer you either an hourly rate (seemingly a standard in the moving business) or a flat rate.

* The moving company has to reflect on eventual large/heavy items relocation: pianos, large rear projection TVs, appliances are causing a lot of troubles while loading/unloading and are the reason for extra charges (if you are going by an hourly rate).

* Though the moving company should do their best for protecting your belongings, ask if the company is bonded and if so, request a copy of the insurance, make sure the service rendering contract you sign with the mover makes reference to this insurance.

I know these are just some of the things to consider while you are moving your things, but believe me, anything less than this and you know that your moving day could turn out to be a disaster! So don't gamble, do what you know is the right thing to do!

Published At: Isnare.com Free Articles Directory - http://www.isnare.com/

Get Moving Insurance before Moving

There are different kinds of Insurance that pertain to moving:

Released Value Insurance, the most basic coverage provided by moving companies. Estimated by weight it covers US$0.60 per pound of objects.
Declared Value Insurance offers coverage of US $ 1.25 per pound, coverage is on the total weight of your movables. If any objects are damaged, the insurance is based on the depreciated value of the object to the maximum value of items shipped.
Lump Sum Value, this insures based on the actual value of goods shipped and not by weight. The specific value of items must be declared on the bill of landing.
Full Value Protection, covers all damage or losses. Objects will be replaced, repaired, or cash for value of object will be offered.

Tips:

Decide which objects are to be moved and which are to be stored.
Prepare a detailed list of objects to be moved along with weight and value.
It is advisable to take insurance over and above that offered by the movers.
Ask for advice on which insurance would benefit you the most.
Get estimates from insurers.
Remember a customer has to file a complaint within nine months of the move.
A mover is legally obliged to acknowledge a claim within 30 days and offer settlement within 120 days.
Even if there is damage a customer is obligated by law to pay for the move. After which the customer should address the claim procedure to receive compensation.
Ask the mover to explain clearly the insurance cover offered by them, the exclusions, and limits.
Always read carefully the small print on the mover's contract and insurance papers.
List antiques and valuables separately and take extra coverage for them. Extra premium is generally charged for fine china, paintings, and so on.
If any goods are damaged, never unpack/remove them from their boxes until all procedures for claims are completed.
Check whether your homeowners insurance covers moving. Purchase an insurance that best covers the value of the property being transported.

Find out what can be insured. Normally, jewellery, cash, as well as items not packed by movers are not covered. Goods like fuels, fertilizers, acids, ammunitions, paints, aerosol cans, corrosives, as well as flammable substances will invalidate insurance and should not be moved.

It is important to know the laws of the state or country where you live and the place you are moving to.

Experts recommend transit insurance as a good supplement to moving insurance. It will generally cover the gaps left by the insurance policy.

Clever coverage can save hundreds of thousands of dollars and insurance is available on the net, through the mover, a move-it-yourself company, or homeowner's insurance companies.

Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/ - Free Website Content

Make the Right Move

America is always on the move-literally. Experts estimate that one out of five households move to a new residence each year. If you do the math, that amounts to a whopping 1.5 million moves every month. Those are some amazing stats, especially if you consider how trying and stressful such moves can be. It's a wonder that one household-let alone millions!-can pull it off.

If you're part of this statistic and on the verge of a big move, though, don't be daunted by the whole process of packing up your stuff, loading it, and dragging it to your new home. There is a way to move without losing any valuables, too much money, or your mind, whether you're moving across town, or across the continent. With some common sense, some help from professionals, friends, and loved ones, and the essential "Do's and Don'ts" list in this article, you can be successful and avoid all of the mishaps and stress that usually come with moving.

We'll start with the positive-the Do's on our list. Make sure to check off all of these before you even start stuffing boxes with your stuff. Do:

Line up help for packing and moving your stuff. It depends on your budget whether you hire professional movers or call in the volunteer brigade (your friends and family). Either way, round up somebody.

Have a chat with your post office, making sure they know to forward your mail to your new address. In many cases, you will need to fill out a mail-forwarding form.

Purchase brand-new moving boxes from your moving company or truck-renting company. They're worth the money. Bugs and vermin can stow away in old boxes. No need to give them a free ride to your new digs.

Sort through your stuff for old valuables you don't need anymore to sell. Be honest with yourself, and you may be able to pay for your move with the money you make-especially if you sell them at convenient and easy marketplaces like online classified sites.

Drop off old valuables that aren't worth selling at a Goodwill or other charity thrift shop.

Think comfort and safety on move day. Pack a first-aid kit with medicines and hygiene products, as well as a change of clothes and light snacks.

Now onto the Don'ts. Avoid these missteps, and your move will feel like an exciting adventure, not painful torture. So don't:
Take on the entire move without any help and worse, without any planning.

Forget to find out your local post office's rules for transferring mail. And while you're at it, don't let it slip your mind to change your address, as well.

Move without your kids and pets or leave them home alone during trips to and from your old and new residences. For pets and small children, your best bet is a sitter.

Grab a few used vegetable boxes from the supermarket or grocery store. They may be cheap, but bugs and dirt may be hiding inside them. You want to start in your new home with a clean slate, not an infested one.

Haul old kitchen junk, like worn-out plastic containers and chipped glasses, with you to your home. You can save yourself a lot of heartache, and muscle aches, if you use the move as a chance to get rid of this kind of stuff.

Pack expired canned foods, leftovers, and perishables. Anything that can spill, go rotten, and cause a mess in any way is not worth the effort. Again, think clean slate.

Throw a garage sale, sell what you can, and save the leftovers for the garage sale you tell yourself you'll have next spring. Truth is, this stuff will probably be clogging your storage space for years to come. If you want to sell it, try an easier and more profitable way, such as online classified ads.

Forget to unpack box after box after you move in and then when you can't find something (because it's buried in a box somewhere), go shopping for it. Unpack as quickly as possible. You won't feel at home in your new place until you do.

These Do's and Don'ts will help you have a "moving" experience when you settle into your new home. But instead of tears of frustration and anguish pouring out your eyes, they will be tears of joy.

Article Source: http://www.articlegeek.com/ - Free Website Content

How to Select the Best Local Movers?

Most of us will be always in a confused state when we have the list of best products with us. We will be in chaos to select, which is best. Similarly today many local movers and moving companies have been started and definitely you will be in a dilemma to select the best one. Don't worry; we will see how to select the best local mover in your state or city.

Step no 1:
Select the best Chicago mover, if you are in Chicago. Have a conversation with your friends, neighbors and relatives about your move and about the Chicago movers. If you think that the realtor can help you, no issues, you can also consult them about moving.

Step no 2:
Have a list of best three moving companies with you and enquire about their service and experience in the market.

Step no 3:
Then, see whether they have the appropriate insurance and license to travel within the state or city you preferred.

Step no 4:
See whether they have any moving complaints, the reputable Chicago mover will not have any complaints and if they had so, see how they resolved the problem.

Step no 5:
Don't prefer the company that doesn't have the real address and website because they would have been scammers and will try to cheat you.

Step no 6:
From that, select the best two and then, see their online estimates and other services such as packing and storage facilities.

Step no 7:
From the selected two, select the one and see the wide variety of rates used by them.

Step no 8:
If you are interested in music and having musical instruments especially piano, see that they also act as piano movers. Sometimes the concern may first accept and then try to reject it. So intimate to them well before.

Step no 9:
Make sure that they provide you proper moving supplies and order boxes for your packing.

Step no 10:
Tell them about your moving loads so that they can bring the moving pods depending upon your requirement.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johnson_McKenzie