The fact is that moving across the country is a very stressful event for most consumers. If you are involved with moving a long distance, you are probably fully aware of this fact. Certainly, moving is more than just looking in the yellow pages or going online and selecting the first interstate mover that you come across. Of course, it’s important to make sure that they are licensed to perform interstate moves. Interstate moving companies are regulated by a governing organization that requires the company to have a license from the FMCSA or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This license number should be displayed in all their advertising.
1. Cutting Moving Costs
There are several ways to cut moving cost considerably before you even start contacting a moving company about your interstate move. Getting organized, tossing trash, and getting rid of unnecessary items is a way to cut moving costs simply. The fewer items that you include in the move, the less likely that you’ll get scammed or receive hidden costs that drive the cost of your interstate move sky high. Another key to cutting moving costs and hidden fees is to select a moving company that is licensed and regulated by the FMCSA.
2. Selecting Movers
Select competent, experienced, and licensed interstate movers. Get started by asking friends, relatives, and neighbors for referrals. Find other movers online by using reputable sites like Moving Companies Long Distance. Visit their websites and write down as much information as possible about the movers. For example, how long have they been in business? Are they licensed? Do they subcontract to other companies? Are the workers trained to pack and load items carefully? Do they offer insurance? Look over the information and narrow your list down to two or three movers that you are going to contact for estimates or quotes.
3. Binding Estimates and Non-Binding Estimates
Now, you are going to gather estimates and quotes, to make sure that you hire the right mover. First, decide if you prefer a non-binding or binding estimate. Next, ask for an estimate in person, never over the phone. Over the phone, estimates are usually very sketchy along with the company that offers the estimate. In-home estimates are more accurate. The mover will come to your location and probably provide a binding estimate or a non-binding estimate. A binding estimate is an assurance that the cost for the move will stay the same whether the items are heavier or lighter than estimated. However, this only covers items on the list. Non-Binding estimates are merely projected cost, but the actual cost might be quite different.
Final Notes
It is important for you to realize that most interstate movers offer their customers’ non-binding estimates. Still, there is no reason for you to panic about extra fees or hidden costs. Simply make sure that you only include the items that were on the estimated list to stay on track.
