There’s no place quite like New York City. The sentiment rings even truer when you’re planning a big move in the Big Apple. From hauling furniture down bustling streets, to dealing with difficult supers, expect challenges and frustrations that can only happen here.
Thankfully, with a professional, expert NYC moving team at your side, you won’t have to tackle the relocation alone. Here are 7 questions to ask potential moving companies that will ensure your NYC move goes as smoothly as possible.
Do They Have Stellar Reviews?
Between the BBB, Yelp, Google, Facebook, and more, consumers now have access to countless reviews to sneak a peek at previous moving experiences. Take full advantage of this crowd- sourced opportunity as it’s a great way to weed out subpar movers.
If the internet is full of glowing reviews for a potential company, chances are your move—and your stuff—will be in great hands.
What Are Their Specialties?
Many professional moving companies will offer various specialties either as an add-on service or as part of their brand as a whole. This can often include local or long distance moves, expedited moves, packing services, luxury services, international moves, and more.
If you now your move requires a specific need or service, ask potential moving companies if they offer this specialty and have substantial experience with it. Request references as well to verify this experience. Just because they claim a move from Manhattan to Morocco is their forte doesn’t mean it actually is.
Do They Really Know NYC?
Moving in NYC is a unique experience that requires a unique skillset. Inquire about their experience working in NYC and how they tailor moves differently here in comparison to other cities. Even a highly-rated moving company in Albany might be stumped when trying to navigate the crazy world within the five boroughs.
Some questions you should ask are:
- How long have they been moving within NYC proper?
- Are they located in NYC?
- Do they understand and comply with NYC’s specific laws and regulations?
- How do they park, maneuver, and move through the packed city streets?
Are They Licensed and Insured?
This is SO important. Always chose a mover that is 100% up-to-date on licenses and insurance policies in NYC. Otherwise your stuff—and the safety of others—is at serious risk.
Licensed moving companies must meet rigorous safety, financial, and insurance standards established by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). Carrying insurance ensures protection and coverage of your belongings even in the unlikely event of damage, loss, or theft.
Will They Happily Answer Any Questions?
A quality, professional moving company knows clients have countless questions when planning a move, especially in a complicated location like New York City. They should be eager to answer anything and everything that will help to put your mind at ease.
Trusting your chosen moving company is huge, and they should be keen gaining that trust. After all, you’re relying on them to take care of your precious property. If they act annoyed, or try to rush through questions, consider it a major red flag.
Do They Have Additional Hidden Fees?
Avoid that surprise post-move sticker shock. As they unload that final box, the last thing you want is a bill way bigger than expected.
When getting a quote, ask if there are any other possible add-on fees or expenses not initially included. Some companies will include everything up front. Others might charge extra for things like climbing up flights of stairs, elevator fees, packing services, bulky items, re-assembly, etc.
How Experienced Is Their Crew?
Sure. Everyone has to start somewhere—but can it not be with Grandma’s china plates or our kid’s first paintings? There’s nothing rude about asking how long your moving crew has personally been relocating people’s property.
Ask not only how many years they’ve been in the business, but also how much experience they have in moving your particular kinds of valuables. If they’ve never moved a piano up a seven-story walkup and that’s what you need—find a mover that has.
Ready to ask these seven questions to the #1 rated moving company based right here in New York City? Contact Roadway Moving today! Our expert team is dedicated to providing our commercial and residential customers with an incredible, professional moving experience. Call us at 212-812-5240 or request a free online quote anytime. We can’t wait to move you.
