Hiring a Moving Company to Help You Move into Your Gainesville Apartment
Now that you have found the perfect Gainesville, FL apartment to serve your needs, it is time to plan how you will move your belongings. Renting a truck and recruiting your friends may work out well for your move, but some people would rather avoid the sore muscles—and injuries—by hiring a professional mover.
As you may have already found out, there are a bunch of professional moving companies out there to choose from. Some moving companies are staffed by a few strong people and one big truck. Other moving companies have a fleet of vehicles and generations of experience. As a customer, you simply want someone who can get your belongings into your Gainesville apartment safely and quickly. Which company do you pick for your move?
First, you will obviously want to compare quotes between moving companies. Get your estimates in writing from each moving company you are considering. Make sure the quotes include all charges such as fuel, labor, truck rental, moving oversized items, and so on. Tell the moving company that you do not want to be surprised by unexpected charges after all is said and done. As you haggle with moving companies about pricing, keep in mind that while you want to save as much money as possible, you also need your belongings to arrive in one piece. This will require you to weigh the importance of cost versus value for your dollar.
On the subject of money, find out what types of payment the moving company will accept. Moving is expensive and it may be more convenient for you to pay with a credit card. Credit card companies also offer protection against fraudulent behavior, such as the nightmare of a company taking your cash and disappearing with it.
Next, ask for references from each moving company. The company should have several former customers who are willing to offer a positive reference.
In addition to solid references, it is good to know how long the mover has been in business and what the company’s track record is. If the moving company has a good history, the representative will proudly tell you about it.
A moving company should always show you proof of being bonded and insured. This will protect you in a few ways. Most importantly, the moving company should cover your belongings if they are lost or damaged during the move. The moving company also should carry workers compensation insurance so that you are not held liable if a mover is injured at your Gainesville apartment.
Hiring a moving company can certainly make your move a more pleasant experience, but only if you use a company that treats you and your belongings with care. Selecting a mover, therefore, is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Do your homework and your moving company will be your best friend on moving day.