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Monday, August 15, 2011

Moving Within a State: Hiring Do's and Dont's

There are some do's and don't's that you should keep in mind when hiring a moving company to ship your household goods within the state. These tips will help protect you from fraudulent or rogue movers.

First, let's look at fees.

Intrastate/Local Moving Company Fees

Intrastate movers charge two different ways:

· Hourly rate. This may include a minimum hour amount such as two or three hours. It may also include a "one-time tip" charge, which is the cost for sending staff to your house for the initial pick-up. Also check with the company for any additional charges that may apply.

· A flat rate. This includes the items to be moved and any other circumstances surrounding the move and should address any stairs, parking, carrying charges, etc. Make sure you read the contract as additional charges may apply if you arrive late the day of the move or move-in or if there are additional items that were not included in the original shipping list. Also, if your stuff has to be stored overnight, there may be an additional fee. Usually, this can be negotiated if you inquire before you sign the contract.

Do's

· Investigate the company before you sign on the dotted line.

· Ask if a company is a broker. A broker is the go-between and will actually hire another company to complete the move. This means that you don't know who will be moving your things. If the company you're hiring is a broker, ask them for details on the movers who will be doing your move. Investigate both the broker and the moving company they'll be hiring.

· Be up front about all circumstances surrounding the move. If you have stairs, a difficult access for either the move out or move in or if there's an additional stop along the way. Being honest and thorough will save you money and time and the mover's will appreciate that there aren't any hidden problems.

· Ask for a written statement that includes all charges. If the move is based on an hourly rate, ask the moving company to put the hourly rate and any other fees in writing. If the move is a flat rate, ask the company to state the flat amount and any other fees that apply. Specifically ask if there will be any outstanding charges.

· Ask about the company's insurance policy for things that are damaged or lost by the movers.

· Ask how the company wants to be paid. Ask about the payment schedule up front. Most require a down payment with the remaining amount owing when your belongings are delivered. Be careful of companies that request cash only. This is a true sign of a rogue mover.

· Have someone at your old house so they can make note of the items being loaded on the truck and have someone at your new home to make note of the items when the movers deliver your household goods.

· Carefully review all the documents provided by the moving company. A moving company should supply you with a copy of your rights, a bill of lading, the old and new addresses and the number of boxes being transported, including a shipping list.

· At your new home, check off the boxes and items as they're loaded into the house. Make sure nothing is missing and carefully note any damage.

Don't's

· Don't hire a company that refuses to provide an agreement.

· Don't hire a company that only takes cash

· Don't hire a company that seems too good to be true.

· Don't hire a company that isn't registered with the Department of Transportation.

· Don't hire a company that has any outstanding complaints.

· Don't let a company move your stuff until you have a written copy of any additional charges.

Source: http://moving.about.com/od/hiringamovingcompan1/a/dos_donts_state.htm

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