Mortgage/Loan Application Checklist:
12 Questions to Ask BEFORE You Hire Movers:
1. Are you FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) licensed?
Anyone can say they are FMCSA licensed, so be sure to do your research. This accreditation is imperative as this government agency regulates operations and safety for both consumers and commercial vehicles and ensures you are not falling prey to a scam. Be sure to look for MC and U.S. DOT federal ID #’s on the company’s webpage. Verify the company’s authorization status by punching either number into FMCSA’s database.
2. Are you a carrier or a broker?
Working with a broker might result in a lower price as brokers allow companies to bid on your move. The risks: the crew will likely be from a company other than the one you spoke with, miscommunication is a common frustration and additionally accrued fees on your actual moving day are likely to occur.
A carrier will handle all aspects of your move from quote to actual delivery of your belongings to your new residence. Working with a carrier will cost you more, however it is worth the savings in hassle and frustration in the long run.
Make sure you know how your selected mover operates and whether they will be handling every aspect of your move from start to finish.
3. What are your insurance coverage options?
Inquire as to whether insurance packages are available that would cover any lost or broken items during your move. Basic liability coverage is required for all moving companies at no charge to their clients and usually covers items at a rate of $0.30/lb. intrastate and $0.60/lb. Interstate. Inquire about basic liability and full value protection packages and pricing.
4. Are your estimates binding?
Binding estimates ensure that your price does not increase at a later date before or during your move as long as you don’t modify your inventory at the last possible second. While there are great companies who do not give binding estimates, there is certainly an advantage to ensuring that your quotes are binding.
In addition, do your research to ensure there are no hidden fees buried in the legal jargon of your contract. Be sure to check customer reviews, yelp and Google for feedback from past clients. If you see consistent, repeated complaints, it might be a sign to move on. One or two, however, is probably more indicative of a cranky customer or a bad day.
5. How are your prices calculated?
Most movers calculate prices based on shipment weight, season, hourly labor rates and distance, however others might tack on fuel and specialty surcharges. Understanding the basis for pricing will assist you in knowing how to budget and catching possible mistakes on your final bill. In addition, ask if the company price matches competitors.
6. Will you do EVERYTHING?
Don’t ever assume ANYTHING. Make sure your moving company will pack, load, crate, take apart & reassemble your furniture, transport specialty items (jacuzzi, piano, etc.), handle storage, ship your car, clean, etc. and find out if they price on an a la carte system or if services are included in the base quote.
7. Do you require your employees to complete a background check?
If the answer is “no,” move on (pun intended). Background checks ensure companies aren’t hiring employees who were fired for theft, burglary or drug use. Ensure the moving company will send only credible, safe people into your home to handle your belongings.
8. How are claims handled?
Inquire about the process for submitting loss or damage claims and how those claims are processed by the moving company. Once again, research reviews to note complaints or praise regarding the company’s claims process.
9. Do you offer shipment tracking?
Ask if the company provides “real time” updates, GPS tracking or a number to call for updates. While not everyone offers this service, it is a nice perk that goes a long way in putting your mind at ease.
10. Do you guarantee your delivery date?
While companies can provide educated estimates for arrival dates, not all companies guarantee their delivery dates. A guarantee of arrival on the delivery date is a commitment to you issued in writing on the part of the moving company stating that you will have your belongings on a specific date. Just remember that if it isn’t writing, then you don’t have the guarantee.
11. What is your cancelation policy?
Inquire about deposit retention and other fees associated with canceling your move in the event that your job situation didn’t pan out, you decided to stay put or other life events might detain you a bit longer than planned. Don’t sign a contact until you understand the cancelation policy.
12. What form of payment do you accept?
Not all companies accept checks or credit cards and others might offer a discount if you pay for your move upfront in full. Some companies provide discounts for military personnel, seniors and AAA members or seasonal discounts. Learn about your payment options in order to best budget for moving services.
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If you have questions or need more resources for moving to Florida, call Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty - Phil Aitken Home Team.