Moving into a new Dallas home, apartment, or office has its own thrills and challenges. Whether it’s your first time moving into a trendy Uptown condo, a family-friendly suburb like Plano, or your dream home in Highland Park, there’s one critical move that can either enhance or ruin your experience – hiring the right moving company.
From reliable to fast, cheap to flexible, advertisements these days have it all. But how do you tell the difference between seasoned professionals and amateurs? The answer lies in asking the right questions – questions that should be answered before signing any agreements.
This article contains essential queries to assist you when employing the services of a professional moving company in Dallas.
It is mandatory. Every moving company in Texas must have a valid license and some sort of insurance. The license should be issued by the TxDMV (Texas Department of Motor Vehicles). A mover’s license can be confirmed through their TxDMV number or by visiting the TxDMV website.
In addition to the license, request proof of insurance. Note that legitimate movers have both liability coverage and cargo insurance. These policies confirm that your belongings will remain protected from loss or damage during the move.
Why it matters: Moving without a license or proper insurance puts you at risk of fraud, poor service, and out-of-pocket costs for damages.
Reliable movers provide free in-home or virtual estimates. Be wary of movers who offer estimates based on verbal descriptions and phone calls. All reasonable estimates should include:
Why it matters: If an assessment is not done accurately, it can result in unexpected costs on the actual moving day. A written estimate mitigates the risks of additional expenses.
This is where most people make mistakes. There are normally three types of estimates:
Why it matters: If you have the knowledge about the type of quote, you can easily avoid budget shock. It is important to always request documents outlining the estimate terms and their type.
Not all moves are designed equally; specialized ones need different tactics, methods, and procedures. For example, moving a corporate office in Dallas differs from relocating a multi-story home in Frisco. The gist is that movers should specialize in that kind of job.
Ask them if they have experience with:
Why it matters: Experience matters because it can minimize delays, damage, and logistical issues. Specialized moves need the right training and equipment.
Online reviews can help gauge a company. However, first-hand references are even better, and they overshadow their online counterparts. Request two or three recent customers who can be contacted. Search customers on:
Why it matters: Reviewing past performance helps a lot when assessing if they’d be called back in the future. Focus on their feedback on punctuality, professionalism, and how movers handled issues that surfaced during the process.
Life is unpredictable, and you don’t have the power to control everything. Renowned Dallas moving companies provide legitimate relocation policies and easily verifiable fair cancellation policies. Inquire:
Why it matters: You wouldn’t want to be financially penalized or lack flexibility due to a last-minute decision. It is best to understand the terms before accepting.
Some companies subcontract your move to third-party laborers. This is dangerous because these workers may not have proper training and background checks.
Ask if the workers:
Why it matters: Professionalism and consistency are two sides of the same coin. People do not want to take risks regarding their personal belongings.
Some movers will charge you extra for essentials like:
Ask your moving partner what essentials are covered in the estimate and what are add-ons. Also, ask about the truck’s size – will one truck be sufficient for your move?
Why it matters: Hidden fees can be avoided through clear communication and by getting complete details from the estimator.
Even the most reputable companies sometimes face backlash for damaged or lost belongings. What distinguishes good companies from bad ones is the way they respond to claims.
Consider asking the following from your moving company:
Why it matters: Under Texas law, standard liability per item is quite low, and it will not cover the actual needed value. Consumers like you often purchase additional protection.
A low estimate may look attractive, but later, you may get hit with add-on charges. The best you can do in such situations is to clarify things with your mover.
Common extra charges you can avoid are:
Underestimating moving costs could lead to other issues. Do not hesitate to ask for a full breakdown of all prospective charges.
Why it matters: A transparent pricing structure helps in building trust. Moreover, having everything in writing protects against discrepancies.
Choosing a moving company in Dallas is not just about price but also about peace of mind. When you hire a moving company, you have to trust strangers with your personal belongings, furniture, and sentimental items.
The right mover in Dallas will answer all your questions confidently and honestly. You’ll also be provided with a detailed quote and communicated every step of the way. So, do not settle for the first quote or the one with the lowest price. Do not refrain from asking tough questions. Dedicating a little extra time on the front end will save you from unnecessary costs, stress, or damage.