When faced with the tiring process of moving house, it can be really discouraging when you put too much effort and time into planning a good – local or long distance – move, only to have an incompetent removalist ruin everything. Yes, dishonest and disreputable movers are out there to wreak havoc on your relocation, but here’s how to identify and lock them out.
1.Estimates & Fees
Beware of removalists that give you estimates and fees over the internet or phone. The mover should first visit you home and inspect all the belongings you want to move – and then provide a free quotation with no obligation. During the in-home inspection, the mover also reviews any special item properties you have for moving – are they awkwardly shaped, too heavy, or too valuable? Estimates are usually based on weight rather than cubic feet – that is, truck or vehicle space.
2. Denied Proper Insurance
Certainly something isn’t right if you are denied proper insurance. A removalist is required to arrange for cargo insurance while moving. The property-liability covers all the items being relocated. Before moving, make sure you ask your mover for proof of insurance – request additional info about each coverage option – and how to file a claim in case of loss or damage to property. If your selected mover does not provide moving insurance for your stuff, do consider contracting a properly insured moving service for your upcoming house move.
3. Bad Online Reputation
Bad online reputation is the first step to expose bad movers. Moving testimonials and reviews left by customers can be used to determine if you are getting the real deal. Good and reliable removalists understand the importance professional reputation to their business. They handle client claims, issues and disputes quickly and fairly – and provide excellent relocation services to keep their online records clean. Therefore, you need to proceed with caution if you find a mover with bad reviews.
4. Unprofessional
On moving day, be cautious of movers, especially furniture removalists who arrive in an unmarked truck, look unprofessional, act rudely, or bring damaged and dirty packing materials. Furniture removal is a delicate process; if not done properly the furniture can break, or get scratched – and the house may be possibly damaged due to repeated hits and bangs when removing bigger items.
5. Incomplete Removalist Documentation
Another telltale sign that you’re likely dealing with an incompetent furniture removalist is incomprehensible or incomplete removalist documentation. Read the fine print carefully before you place your signature. Don’t trust movers who give you an incomplete or worst of all – blank documents and force you to sign them.
6. Inflexible Payment Options
A competent mover should offer flexible payment options – if not be wary. A big indicator that a moving company isn’t legitimate is when they demand cash-only payments or a large deposit. Most house removalists only charge you when the house move is over.
7. No Online Presence
Fraudulent moving companies either have no website or if they have one, it has no information about their local address, contacts, license, and insurance options. If you cannot find the info you want on their page, don’t bother contacting them. If you decide to call them and they have a hard time answering your questions, it is wise to hire another removalist.
Make yourself a big favor by choosing the best mover in your area. Do some extra homework and you will enjoy a smooth, trouble-free moving experience.