The moving services market is a multi-billion industry worth a whopping $14 billion. With over 15,500 moving services, choosing the best commercial mover may not be an easy task. There are so many factors you must consider and even more questions you must have answered.
The question is, how do you find the most professional, competent, and reliable commercial moving company? You can start by searching for commercial movers near me on the internet. This will give you several results of top movers in your area.
From here, you should scrutinize each one based on the factors discussed below. Keep reading to find out how to choose a commercial relocating service.
Check Their License and Insurance
Before you hire a commercial mover, confirm that they are properly licensed to operate in your state. Do not settle for any lower than this because it’ll pose risks to both parties.
You don’t want to get into trouble just because the moving company doesn’t follow the state guidelines. The next thing you should look out for is whether the company has worker’s compensation insurance or not.
Workers comp ensures that you’ll not be liable for those injuries if the movers are injured on your property. The workers should also be provided with safety devices and personal protection equipment if possible. Moreover, the company should also have general liability insurance for any damages incurred and auto insurance for their moving truck.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also provides information online about movers’ licensing. Also, look into cargo insurance options in case any goods are damaged during transit.
Check the Commercial Movers Service Areas
Before making a decision, check whether the office movers operate in your area or not. When you search for “commercial movers near me,” you’ll come across their website with this information. Some companies have a nationwide presence, but they may charge additional fees if you choose to work with them.
This is more so if your move falls outside their usual service areas. While some may offer discounts for long distances, it’s usually best to stick with local movers so that your goods get delivered faster and save more money on travel costs. Still, it’s always a great idea to inquire first if the nationwide movers seem professional and reliable enough.
Consider Their Professionalism
The best way to determine the professionalism of the commercial mover is by checking out their reviews online. Researching previous clients’ feedback will allow you to know the quality of work they put in. It’ll give you insight into whether the movers will take care of your office equipment and assure optimum safety.
Another proven method involves checking with the Better Business Bureau. The BBB has information regarding complaints filed against them if ever there were any. This will give you an idea if these movers are legitimate or not based on all factors involved.
Check Prices and Cost Estimates
Moving services normally have different rates depending on their size and weight. However, there is a standard rate for each type of office equipment, which is computed using different calculations. Ask for a detailed estimate from at least three companies for comparison reasons.
If you already know the weight or volume of your items, then ask if they offer discounts accordingly. Beyond that, it’s essential that you inquire when and how you’ll make payments. Some commercial movers will require advance payments before they start moving your stuff, while others may not.
If you are not comfortable with the idea of paying even before loading your things in their truck, then go for a company that can do it after everything is delivered safely at its final destination. Most commercial movers would request a 50% down payment upon signing up with them and 50% upon arrival for interstate moves.
Do They Have Packaging Options?
Some companies provide packing materials free of charge, while others have extra fees for them. If you are tight on budget, then it’s best to go with the first company so that you don’t pay more than you should. Some even offer additional services like storage facilities if you have some office equipment you want to store for a while.
However, if you are on a tight schedule or have valuable items that need special packaging, it is best to go with the latter. Other business movers may offer you packing services at a minimal cost. This, however, depends on their policy, so make sure to inquire about this before hiring them.
Keep in mind that not all office movers do this kind of service for their clients because it requires more time and effort on their end. This is why they’re bound to have extra charges for these services.
Inquire About Move Sizes and Weight Limits
Moving companies have limits to how much stuff they can load per trip depending on the size and weight limit of the truck they will be using. Some of them only use trucks until 8’x8′ while some others can handle up to 18’x80′. Check with your local moving companies for more information.
For companies that have restrictions on size, ask if their trucks can be configured to accommodate your load. If not, ask for alternatives in case the truck is too small for your office stuff.
The last thing you want is to move to a new location with half of your belongings stuck at the office or, worse, lost somewhere along the way. Rest assured, knowing everything will arrive intact and safe at your new office.
How Can You Contact Them?
Make sure that the commercial movers have a good customer service representative. They should have 24 hours phone support and email address where you can contact them anytime in case you have concerns or questions. Inquire who’ll be in charge before, during, and after the move and their preferred mode of communication.
Commercial Movers Near Me: Finding the Best Office Movers
Once you search for “commercial movers near me,” you’ll get several results. Pick at least three and compare their services, costs, and overall workmanship. Check their online customer reviews, references, testimonials, and licenses.
All these will help you choose the best business movers in your area. Other than that, please check out our blog for more informative articles!