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Tips on choosing the right Moving Company in New York City
By Amir S. Hadar
Once you have made up your mind to relocate to a new place, the next important and daunting task is to find a good and reliable residential moving service. Understand that relocating is not an easy task to accomplish alone, and therefore, in most case, choosing a good reliable residential mover or residential moving specialist, becomes a true necessity. Hiring a moving company, though sometimes pricey, reduces the risk factor associated with transporting heavy and/or expensive furniture, and puts lesser strain on your nerves.
As you begin your hunt for a reliable moving company, certain questions come to mind; concerns which should be properly addressed by any potential mover. Be assertive while seeking answers to the following: -
+ Is the mover licensed by your state? Call your local regulatory agencies and make sure. For Interstate moves, contact the Federal Motor Carrier Administration.
+ Does the mover carry all the necessary insurance coverage? Check with your building for any requirements.
+ Will there be any additional charges assessed for stairs, weekend, or holiday moves? Does the mover charge extra for any supplies used? What will those charges be?
+ Are there any hidden costs? Ask before booking.
+ For a long distance move - What will be the estimated delivery time and how will you be notified?
+ If you pack yourself, what type of packing material will be acceptable?
+ What will be the mode and time of making payments?
+ Besides other responsibilities, will the movers disassemble and reassemble all items requiring such service?
+ If you have purchased liability insurance, what will be the claim procedure?
+ How long has the moving company been in business and what is the level of experience of their movers, packers and drivers?
+ Does the company offer storage facilities? If so, at what cost?
+ Make sure you notify your mover of any specialty items such as Pianos, antiques or fine arts.
Finding any moving company in New York City is not very difficult - Selecting a good mover is. Your confidence in your mover can save you from a bundle of heartache down the line. Therefore, please consider the following parameters when choosing a residential relocation specialist -
1.Reputation of Moving Service
The best source for finding the right mover is your friends and family. Listening to what other people have to say. It is absolutely necessary to ask for references from your friends and acquaintances when scouting for prospective movers. Reference from a satisfied customer is one of the best ways of gauging a mover. Another smart move to do will be to ask your prospective mover for references and contacting them directly. Some movers will post such references on their web sites. Be aware however, that the mover will obviously only advertise his 'good moves'.
Consumer targeted groups such as your local Better Business Bureau, are also a good way to see what type of track record your mover has. Keep in mind however, that a larger company who performs thousands of moves each year is more likely to have more complaints then your typical 'mom and pop' type mover. It is how the mover has handled his complaints and whether they have been handled and/or resolved which should give you and idea of the mover's ethics and practices. In general, looking up any mover's complaint record, gives you an insight as to the mindset and business philosophy of the company. In any case, always obtain price quotes from at least 3-4 prospective companies, to compare pricing structure and service value.
When searching for movers on the Internet, never involve a broker, as history has shown that the cost estimates which they provide is often misleading. They further have zero control over the mover they hire, and you will never know just who shows up at your door on moving day.
2.Moving Estimates
Having selected 2-3 compatible moving companies, ask them to provide you with an on-site survey and written estimate. Most movers will do this free of charge. Never accept estimates over the phone, unless you are just moving a few pieces, and there are not any factors present at any of the locations which will present a problem for the mover such as a very narrow stairs case, or doorways. Residential moving is an involved and sometime complex task incorporating many variables; therefore, it is almost impossible to get accurate quotations without having the mover survey the property and belongings.
Involve yourself in the estimation process, as it will help the mover to better understand your requirements and hence, provide for a more accurate estimate. Always perform a self-evaluation before inviting anyone to your place for a cost estimate. Inform your mover about any unusual situations on either end of the move. There may be factors may change the scope of the work to be done and thereby influence the final cost of the move. It is important to know how many flights of stairs are involved on each end and whether there are unusually small elevators and/or services elevators involved. A long carry of your furniture on either end will also influence your final cost, so make sure to tell your mover about this as well. It is your responsibility to make sure that you choosing the proper mover for your move. A mistake in choosing a mover will cost you time, money and lots of aggravation.
Make sure to ask each prospective mover about the validity period of any estimate provided, and whether a flat price, or a 'not to exceed price' are an option.Make sure all of your agreements with the mover are provided to your in written form.
3.Size & Distance of your Move
Size/weight of your shipment, are prominent factors which add up to the final cost of your move. Identify items which may be sold, donated, or disposed off, so that you don't end up paying to move things that are no longer useful to you. A reputable mover will always provide you with a weight estimate of your move, thereby assisting you in determining the size parameters of your move. In addition, the distance between your starting and destination point are both big determining factors in the overall price. Expect to pay much more for a cross county move, then for a move within the same town.
Make sure that for a long distance move, your mover provides you with a detailed inventory of your items. The mover will note any and all damages or adverse condition of the furniture at origin. Make sure to note and changes to or damagers to the furniture at the destination. Making these notations will greatly help you in the event of a claim.
4. Moving Time Frame
Remember to set aside plenty of time for planning and preparing for your move. Start such preparation about 8-10 weeks prior to your prospective relocation date. Also, be aware that moving during the summer, which is the peak season for most movers, will make a bigger dent in your wallet. If at all possible, schedule your moving date for an off-peak period. Be sure to give yourself more time in securing an appointment with your mover if your move does have to happen during the end of any month, or during the months of June, July and August.
5.Insurance Coverage & Claims
A good reliable mover will offer you a few options when it comes to insuring your goods. Always acquaint yourself with the insurance choices provided and choose the one which best suits your needs. Inquire about the claim procedures and coverage for loss or damage to your goods. Providing an accurate monetary value of your belongings, will allow you to comfortably settle any claim disputes in the even they do happen. If you have chosen the option of Insurance Vs. Valuation Coverage, make sure you get an insurance certificate reflecting all required liabilities. A good idea is also to ask for proof of Worker's Compensation coverage which will help absolve you of any liability in the event anyone gets hurt on your property during your move.
6.Full service v/s Customized service
Depending upon your budget, needs and convenience, you may choose from the host of different services provided by a moving company. Full service is always more costly, as everything from packing to delivery and placement is handled by the mover. On the other hand, picking services customized to your requirements can be more economical.
Custom package involves self-packing and moving or heavy lifting by movers. Most movers will offer a wide array of packing supplies for a fair price. You may shop those around as well, but keep in mind that most movers will usually deliver such supplies to your door, free of charge if you meet their required minimum purchase. This will save you the hassle of going out and lugging these supplies around yourself. A good mover will offer useful tips on what should (or should not) be packed in any of your boxes. Do not fall victim to low hourly rates at the cost of quality of service. With mover as with anything else in life, do not forget the old rule of thumb, -you get what you pay for.
7.Viable Payment Options
Some movers will accept credit cards, but most movers will require Cash, Certified/Cashier Check or Postal Money Order as payment. Payment is generally collected prior to the unloading of the moving vehicle at destination. When choosing your moving company, make sure that you confirm the mode and time of the payment. If your wish is to pay using a personal check or a debit card, make sure that you verify whether your mover will be amenable to such payment arrangement.
Residential Moving with Alpha Moving & Storage Company...
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Alpha has recently been recognized by Weichert Gold Services, and provided with an award for providing "Outstanding Relocation Services" to their many clients. Alpha is truly a name you can trust for providing you with one of the best resources for home and residential moving services in New York & New Jersey. With AlphaMoving.com, you get host of free services, which may include no additional charges for moving large, delicate, or priceless Items such as pianos, refrigerators, computers, or antiques. We do not charge for stairs on local, hourly rated moves.
If you want to make your household moving a smooth and hassle-free event, Alpha is your one-stop solution. Get Free Estimates and enjoy the complete moving package at most affordable pricing.
Remember that residential moving involves a good amount of stress. To ensure a successful move, you should turn to the people who know moving -Alpha Moving & Storage. Your search for a good reputable mover is now officially over.
About the Author
Alpha Moving & Storage was established in 1994 by Steve A. Hadar, its current President and CEO. With a fleet of 20 late model trucks and vehicles, 50,000 Sq. Ft. of warehouse space, and 100 trained and professional employees, Alpha is ready and able to take on any relocation related task.
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