Jeremy Kaplan
It is important to find a reliable moving and storage company in New York before you let them load your belongings into a truck. Alt. Image of two people shaking hands.
If you open your browser and type in these few magical words, the result will always be the same. But when you see all these advertisements, how can you tell which mover is truly reliable? We are all well acquainted with the high number of scams that happen on a daily basis. And no one wants to become a victim of a con artist. But, you are in the right place if you are in the market for a reliable moving and storage company in New York. So, keep on reading!
What to look for?
Get recommendations.
Ask your friends, family members and coworkers for recommendations. A reliable moving and storage company in New York has many satisfied clients, and you already know one for sure. If that option fails, you can check moving company’s online reviews. But, be careful! Even scammers can create their own websites, so make sure to check one’s reviews on outside sites as well as on the official one.
Background check and recommendations are mandatory when you are looking for a reliable moving and storage company in New York. Alt. Image of an office table.
A reliable moving and storage company in New York should be a member of BBB and American Moving and Storage Association.
After getting some recommendations, go online and do a background check to make sure if the moving company of your choosing is reliable. Go to the website of the Better Business Bureau and give a call to the American Moving and Storage Association. If the company in question is a member, it has agreed to abide by the organization’s published tariffs and to participate in its arbitration program. This membership is a sign that you are going in the right direction.
Find moving companies in your area.
Turn off your computer and start your search. Try to find moving companies that have been in business for a while. Find at least three moving companies to compare one against another. Go to their offices and meet their employees. Make sure to know that the company is who they say they are. Check out their trucks and storage units. Set up appointments for movers to come to your house and do an in-home estimate.
Look for moving companies in your neighborhood. Alt. Image of NYC.
Get the right estimate
Get a quote for your NYC move as soon as possible. A moving company should give you an estimate based on what they see in your home. Ask questions about the different services, extra fees, prices, insurance options, and everything else that interests you. Some companies provide services that another don’t, and you should know by now what you are looking for. Never hire a mover who gives you a quote based on cubic feet, or one that isn’t thorough enough. You want estimator to look into your drawers, closets, attic, garage, and backyard. Also, it is important to get an estimate in writing. This will prevent your mover to change the price when the actual moving day comes. Never sign blank paperwork, or anything that looks suspicious. Read the document, understand the fine print it and don’t worry about making movers wait.
Makings of a reliable moving and storage company in New York that should have by now:
- Full company name and contact information (address, phone numbers, e-mail and website address) should be familiar to you by now.
- Ask for their S. Department of Transportation license number.
- A reliable moving and storage company NYC will provide you with ‘’Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move’’ booklet.
- You should know for how long they have been in the business.
A reliable moving company has many years of experience. Alt. Image of some folders.
Red flags
- If the moving company is actually a moving broker (they hire others), hang up the phone and look for the another one.
- If you are within 100 miles of their office, movers are required by law to perform an in-home estimate. The company that refuses to do so should be crossed off your list of potential hires.
- A written estimate is also required by law, so make sure to get one.
- The company asks you to sign blank or suspicious documents.
- The company that requires cash up-front or large deposits.
- If the moving company doesn’t have any of the licenses listed above, they are probably scammers.
- The company has no physical address listed, or if the address listed is a rented mailbox.
A reliable moving and storage company in New York should not present any red flags. Make sure to look for them before they load your belongings into their trucks. After that, it will be too late.
Start negotiating
Negotiate with at least 3 moving companies before you sign a contract. You can negotiate with reliable moving and storage companies in New York, so don’t be shy. You don’t want only a reputable mover at a reasonable price, but also a great quality of service. Take advantage of moving quotes that you got and negotiate to get the best bargain. Be imaginative and flexible. They may offer to give you a lower price if you meet a few of their requests. If you stay flexible about the moving dates, there is a greater chance that you will get a better deal. They would rather lower the price than lose the job to their opponents. Use this as negotiation trick. You have nothing to lose while negotiating, so remember – don’t be shy.
Still looking for recommendations?
Capital City Movers NYC is a company that you are looking for! It has all the logistical support, services, and storage capabilities to relocate you anywhere you want, regardless of the size and complexity of the move itself. With experienced and highly trained employees, they are one of the most reliable moving and storage companies in New York. They understand how stressful moving can be, and their main goal is to have you as happy and satisfied as possible. Don’t wait, give them a call!
