Finding a local mover has many considerations to explore before deciding which one to hire. First, it is best to remember that each situation is unique. No move is like any other move. Second, there is no cookie cutter formula to finding the best local mover. It will take finding the best local mover for your situation. While each situation is different there are some basic questions that should be addressed before deciding. In other words, finding the best local mover is purely a personal endeavor.  

First step is to do a little research online. Especially in this day of technology most movers are online or have a website. Spend a little time researching local movers and checking their website for reviews. Reviews are a terrific way to gauge how a mover interacts with their clients. The website can also be a great resource for what information should be gathered before making a call. Once the research is finished, start calling local movers for more information before deciding

What information is needed before calling a local mover. 

Concise information is critical to a mover. Having most of the information before you call will save valuable time for both of you. So, what kind of information should you have ready? In addition to the obvious information such as name, address, phone number, date of move, and destination a mover will need a general idea of the type of contents being transported. Equally important is if any of the belongings are oversized such as a pool table or grand piano. Not only will this require additional help but may require specialized tools to move them. Oftentimes when thinking about contents to be moved the garage and basement are overlooked or the self-storage units are forgotten. Remembering these additional spaces will help the local mover provide a more accurate estimate. Therefore, having all the information will save time and result in a better estimate. 

What questions should be asked before deciding on a local mover? 

Before calling the potential mover, have a list of questions ready to ask. Remember each situation is unique and add any questions needed to cover your situation. Some of the most important questions to ask are: 

Do they have their local license? Typically, each state has some sort of licensing. There are seven states that have no license requirements. Maine is one state that has no license to be a local mover. Be sure to verify if your state has a license requirement and if the mover has a current license. To help avoid a fraud situation, request a copy of the license for your records. 

What insurance do they carry? Like the local license it is best to request proof of insurance for your protection.  

Do they have a cancellation policy? If so, what is it? This is important as situations do arise that are out of our control. Knowing ahead of time about any charges will avoid a surprise if something does interfere with the move.   

What type of payment options do they offer? Most local movers require a deposit on a job. Others might offer a 3 pay program. Each local mover will have their own payment plan. In addition, know what types of payments they will accept. 

Would they prefer to pack any specialty items like televisions or other electronics? A local mover will oftentimes offer this extra service as added protection against damage. Due to the fact they could be held accountable for this damage. As experts they have the knowledge to protect delicate electronics.  

Additionally, these questions would be important. How to contact the mover during the move? If they have references. How long do they estimate the move will take and what is their current availability? As each situation is different there may be other questions to ask.  

Deciding is a personal matter 

Cost can be the biggest determining factor when choosing a local mover. Sometimes the lowest estimate is not the best deal. Other determining factors may make cost a secondary aspect of the decision. In other words, the unique needs of this move may require a mover with more experience. Therefore, all the information that has been gathered should be examined to help you decide on the best local mover for your situation. 

Once a local mover has been chosen, things to expect

A reputable mover will want to do a walk through to give an accurate estimate of the cost. There are a few situations where it may not be necessary. If the contents of the move are already in a self-storage unit. The local mover would know without looking what size truck would be needed based on the unit size and type of contents. Furthermore, they would know how many workers to send to complete the job easily. In general, most moves require a walk through. 

Next a local mover may require you to sign a contract with them for the move. This is a wonderful opportunity to review the contract and ask any questions to clarify what is expected from each party. As always, read the contract in its entirety before signing.  

Then expect a follow-up call a few days before the scheduled move. Good movers are busy. Therefore, do not panic if no contact happens between the signing of the contract and the few days prior to the move. Whenever your situation changes, contact the mover as soon as possible.  Additionally, contact the mover the day before the move if you have not heard from them. At this time, it would be prudent to discuss any specific needs such as the self-storage unit being loaded first as it is going to be stored at another location.  

Moving Day  

The big day has finally arrived. The local mover you chose has arrived. Now what? Communicate with the supervisor any specific needs discussed at the pre-move phone call. Then trust the experts and let them do the job you hired them to do. The best thing to do is let the supervisor know where you will be, in case there are any questions. They know how to load the truck to keep everything safe, it is why you hired them.