You will want to get an estimate from various moving companies. You previously learned the questions they'll ask you; read on for several questions you should ask.
Are your crews insured? If it's a company you are not familiar with, inquire to see a copy of their declarations page for the business insurance policy. Get their damages policy in writing, so that if something breaks you understand the claim process.
Is the hourly rate per man or for the crew? What about additional men? Most companies will charge an hourly rate for a two or three-man crew. You might feel three is excessive, but it is worth the expense since that third or even fourth laborer makes things go a whole lot faster when narrow hallways or bulky and heavy things are in the mix. You can have a couple of people taking things apart and crating or packing while others do the heavy lifting; the movers are guys who work together every day and they're used to each having a specific job on the move, and they get the job done much quicker. It is not uncommon to have a quote for a two-man crew, and with a charge for an additional man, if requested. If your house has four or five bedrooms or you have a big garage, you might require two trucks anyway, so seriously consider the extra men to get it accomplished in one day.
Do you charge for drive time? Is the crew off the clock for lunches and breaks? Companies fluctuate with the travel charges. Usually, once they reach your house, the clock is going. Frequently they will stop at a drive through and eat lunch in route to the new home, so there is not very much down time.
What if I only want packing help? That's fine, most companies will supply you an a la carte pricing quote--you can buy everything from shrink wrap only to a six-man crew that will box your lawn mower if you want them to. The prices for packing commonly include supplies--tape, bubble wrap, newsprint paper (the unprinted and clean kind), packing peanuts, and a wide range of box sizes. Expect an hourly rate for a packing crew as a basic estimate. Just be sure and glance through the verbiage on the quote so that you understand exactly what is and is not included.
What if I just want moving help? Some people like to pack together as they purge and sort, and so hiring people for that is just not constructive. Moving companies are willing to load, drive, and unload on moving day, just make sure you are aware of their policies for what they can and can't load. For starters, anything hazardous or toxic cannot be put on the trucks. Nail polish remover is on the prohibited list, as are most cleaning supplies, household chemicals, and paint. Firearms may not be permitted on moving trucks, so you will likely have to open any safes so that the movers can see what is inside of them.
Movers Are More Expensive Than Your Extended Family, but They Are Insured
Experienced movers are not inexpensive, but your poker buddies or family won't pay a claim if something is dented in the move. And, they are much more likely to hurt their backs or knees if they don't know the right way to lift heavy furniture.
