Moving across the country is a major life event that requires careful planning and consideration. One of the most important decisions in the moving process is selecting the right cross country movers. A reliable, professional moving company can make a significant difference in ensuring a stress-free and smooth transition to a new home. However, common mistakes can lead to unexpected expenses, delays, and unnecessary stress.
Here are five mistakes to avoid when choosing cross country movers.
1. Skipping Research on the Moving Company
Selecting a moving company without sufficient research is one of the biggest mistakes people make when choosing cross country movers. Not all moving cross country movers operate with the same level of professionalism, and neglecting this step can lead to poor service, higher costs, or even damaged belongings.
Essential Research Steps for Choosing Cross Country Movers
- Company Reputation: Look up the company’s reputation through customer reviews on platforms like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, and Google Reviews. Past customers’ experiences provide insight into the company’s reliability and service quality.
- Credentials and Certifications: Confirm that the movers are licensed and insured. For cross country movers, it’s essential they are registered with the Department of Transportation and have a valid DOT number.
- Experience in Long-Distance Moving: Check the cross country movers’ experience handling long-distance moves. Companies with extensive experience in cross-country moving will better understand the complexities of a long-distance move and offer tailored services.
2. Not Requesting In-Home or Virtual Estimates
One common mistake when choosing cross country movers is failing to request an in-home or virtual estimate. Relying solely on a phone or online quote with a proper assessment can lead to accurate pricing, resulting in unexpected costs on moving days.
Benefits of In-Home or Virtual Estimates
- Accurate Pricing: A physical or virtual assessment allows the moving company to evaluate the volume and weight of belongings, ensuring a more accurate quote that minimizes unexpected costs.
- Better Understanding of Services: During an in-home or virtual estimate, the movers can discuss available services, special requirements, or unique items that need extra care.
- Opportunity for Questions: In-person or virtual estimates also give customers a chance to ask detailed questions about the moving process, timeline, and what to expect.
3. Ignoring Valuation Options
When choosing cross country movers, many overlook the importance of valuation options, which can be costly if items are damaged or lost during transit. Cross-country moves involve long distances, and damages can occur due to handling, road conditions, or unforeseen circumstances.
Key Insurance Considerations for Cross Country Moves
- Basic Coverage (Released Value Protection): Most moving companies offer basic liability coverage at no extra cost, which provides minimal compensation based on weight, not the item’s actual value. This is often insufficient for valuable or sentimental items.
- Full-Value Coverage: Full-value protection is an upgraded valuation option where the mover is liable for replacing, repairing, or compensating for the item’s value. It comes at an additional cost but is recommended for high-value items.
- Third-Party Valuation: Some movers partner with third-party valuation companies to offer additional coverage. This option is worth considering, especially for valuable items that require more protection than the moving company’s coverage offers.
4. Choosing Based Solely on Price
It’s easy to focus on finding the cheapest option when searching for cross country movers, but selecting a mover based on price alone can be a costly mistake. A low estimate may not include essential services, or it might be a tactic to lure customers in, only to add hidden fees later.
Consequences of Choosing Based Solely on Price
- Limited or Inexperienced Staff: A lot of budget-friendly movers may employ less experienced or poorly trained staff, which can lead to mishandling of items and a lack of professionalism.
- Lower Quality Packing Materials: Other low-cost companies may use substandard packing materials that offer inadequate protection, increasing the risk of damage during transit.
- Minimal Customer Support: Some cheaper services may lack responsive customer support, leaving clients without assistance if issues arise before, during, or after the move.
5. Overlooking Terms and Conditions
Failure to read and understand the terms and conditions is a mistake that can lead to disputes and dissatisfaction. Moving contracts often contain clauses that define the terms of service, including timelines, fees, and cancellation policies, which are critical to understand fully before signing.
Key Terms and Conditions to Review
- Delivery Windows: Long-distance moves may have flexible delivery windows, and exact delivery dates aren’t always guaranteed. Understanding this helps set realistic expectations about when belongings will arrive.
- Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies: Life events can change moving dates. Check if there are cancellation or rescheduling fees and the required notice period.
- Additional Fees: Review potential fees, such as those for long carries, stairs, or oversized items. Knowing these details ahead of time avoids surprise costs on moving days.
Secure a Stress-Free Move with Clancy Relocation & Logistics!
Clancy Relocation & Logistics offers a seamless, worry-free solution for cross-country moves. With decades of experience and a commitment to personalized service, Clancy’s expert team manages every aspect of relocation, from careful packing to timely delivery. Those choosing Clancy benefit from a streamlined process and attention to detail, allowing for a smooth transition and peace of mind.
For anyone planning a long-distance move, Clancy Relocation & Logistics provides the expertise and reliability to make moving simpler, so the focus can stay on settling into a new home. Call us now!