Let’s be real. Even moving locally is a pain! Between tirelessly searching for decent quotes, to packing up endless boxes, and then hauling them across town, most events rank higher on the list of “Things I’d Rather Be Doing” than moving.
We can’t promise to make the move itself the highlight of the year. However, by choosing a professional, expert local moving company, you can expect a residential or commercial move that’s far easier than you ever imagined.
Here are the best ways to evaluate a good local moving company.
Are they actually based in your area?
Every region and city has its own challenges when it comes to moving. That’s why finding a moving company that both serves and is based in your area can make a massive difference. There’s simply no better way to ensure their knowledge of the ins-and-outs of moving in your town. After all, they live it daily.
Say you’re moving from Brooklyn to Manhattan. A great moving company based in rural upstate New York might be experts at carefully navigating down bumpy country roads, but do they know how to get a massive sofa to the top of a 6-story walkup? Even if they’ve done it successfully a few times, a legit NYC-based moving company will have it down to a science.
Do they offer what you need?
Every move has different priorities. What are yours? Some moving services offer the basics, while other specialize in areas like international moves, or provide additional assistance like packing services. Moving companies may offer specialties like:
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- International moves
- Storage services
- Packing
- White glove moving
- Full service moves
Since you’re planning for a local move, obviously find a moving company that focuses on that niche. However, you’ll also want to consider other possible services as well and inquire about each potential company’s experience with those services.
How are the reviews?
Carefully analyzing the reviews of a moving company is possibly the best way to empower yourself as a customer. Using websites like Yelp, Angie’s List, or HomeAdvisor, scour through hundreds of first-hand experiences left by previous customers.
Keep an eye out for common criticisms and positive feedback. Were the movers friendly? Did they provide amazing customer service? Was the team helpful and professional? These are just a few of the many important questions to answer for yourself when choosing the perfect moving service.
Is all certification and licensing up-to-date?
Before even considering a moving company, make sure all of their licenses and certifications are completely up-to-date. This isn’t just to show they care about legalities, but it’s also an essential safety measure for their own movers, other people, and your valuables.
Proof is often listed on their website, but don’t be shy to ask them directly. They are required to show them to any and all customers. Any hesitation to show their license and certification is a major red flag and a sign to move on.
How’s their customer service?
When first reaching out to a new moving company, whether it’s online, via the phone or in-person, their representative should be excited to communicate with a potential new customer.
This is the time to ask any and all questions you might have regarding your big move. If they aren’t responsive, only provide one-word answers, or simply act unenthused, that’s a bad sign of the company’s overall demeanor. Instead, they should be eager to put your mind at ease and have a clear passion to make your move carefree as possible.
What’s their level of experience?
Older isn’t always better, but when it comes to trusting a moving team with your precious belongings, experience counts. A longer history often equals a more steadfast reputation and proof that their work is solid enough to stay in business for years.
Don’t hesitate to ask a potential moving company about their history, ownership, and commitment in creating a lasting business. Getting a deeper understanding of their overall process, how they conduct their trainings, and their standards for employment can make or break whether a company is worthy of your business.
If you’re looking to move within the NYC-area, trust the professionals at Roadway Moving. Based locally in the Bronx, we’re NYC’s #1 rated residential and commercial moving company with an A+ BBB score. Request a free online quote today, setup a consultation, or call us anytime at 212-812-5240. We can’t wait to move you.
