One of the most important questions to ask a moving company Astoria is whether they offer insurance in case your items are damaged or lost. This could save you from a nasty surprise on your final bill!
Hidden fees are often buried in mountains of legal-speak or misrepresented before they show up on your bill. Avoid them by asking the following questions:
1. What is your minimum charge?
Most moving companies provide a minimum charge for services, such as a truck fee, hourly rate, and cost per mover. The base fees will depend on the size of your home and the amount of labor required.
Truck fees and mileage costs can also add up. Travel rates are typically higher on weekends, and moves during peak season (typically summer) tend to cost more than other times of year.
2. What is your maximum charge?
Whether you are moving a single heavy item or a household full of furniture, it’s important to know what the maximum charge is for your move. This can prevent surprises on your final bill and keep you from hiring a moving company that is overpriced.
The cost for interstate moves is typically based on services needed, weight and distance. Local moves are often charged on an hourly basis plus fuel surcharges.
3. What is your insurance policy?
Having full insurance coverage is important for your move. Ask movers what their policy covers, how much they charge for it and whether or not it’s included in the federally mandated minimum liability valuation option (which values your belongings at 60 cents per pound).
Make sure to check online reviews of moving companies to see what others have said about hidden fees. This can help you avoid overpaying on your move.
4. What is your warranty policy?
Getting your entire life packed into boxes is stressful enough, and it’s important to know that the company you’re working with is licensed and insured. This will protect you in the event of an accident or damage on moving day.
A reputable moving company will have no trouble providing you with references of previous customers. You should also ask if they offer binding estimates.
5. What is your equipment policy?
It’s important to know what equipment movers have on hand. A reputable moving company should have an appropriately-sized truck, quality packing materials and boxes, a rope-and-pulley rigging system for hoisting large items, shuttle vans (in case of emergency) and climate-controlled storage facilities.
You should also ask about any hidden moving costs. This will help you avoid unexpected fees on moving day.
6. What is your packing policy?
Trustworthy moving companies should provide full value protection on top of their existing liability coverage. This will guarantee that you get the full replacement cost of your belongings should they break or damage them during the move.
Ask your movers to give you a detailed explanation of their packing policy. Find out if they offer partial or complete coverage and how long you have to file a claim.
Conclusion
A great moving company will have no problem addressing any concerns you may have. They are the professionals, after all. They should be able to uncover details you haven’t thought about yet.
It is also important to find out how a mover handles cancellations and refunds. This information can help prevent hidden fees and ensure that you have peace of mind throughout the moving process.
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