Tag: moving companies

How to Compare Moving Companies?

Posted on by BigApple

It is widely acknowledged that residing in New York City is a remarkable experience, offering a plethora of opportunities and lifestyle options to suit everyone’s preferences. Nevertheless, the abundance of choices can often be overwhelming and pose a challenge when it comes to decision-making. Among the crucial decisions to be made is determining the location and type of accommodation that best aligns with one’s needs and preferences.

When you set your mind on one borough and find a suitable home, chances are you will need help with relocating. When that happens, the right moving company will be what makes or breaks your whole moving experience. You can go for so many different movers that choosing one can become a nerve-racking decision, so learn how to compare moving companies.

It is advisable to allocate sufficient time to conduct thorough research and consider various factors before making a decision. The following text provides valuable insights to aid in this process. It is important to prioritize your requirements and select a moving company that aligns with them, even if it means opting for a higher-priced option.

Depending on individual needs, some may prefer art movers in NYC, while others may require full-service movers to manage all aspects of their move. For those seeking guidance on how to identify a trustworthy moving company and make an informed choice, a comprehensive guide on comparing moving companies in NYC is available.

Get Online

The first thing to do when comparing moving companies is to get online and do a thorough check on each you are eyeing to hire. Begin with researching their license and insurance number. There are numerous ways to do so.

American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) is one of them. Movers should be a member to prove their credibility. Another great website you should visit is the Better Business Bureau (BBB). That is an organization that is non-profit and its purpose is to protect consumers.

Every company that wants to be a member has to go through a vetting process and that tells you a great deal about the way a company runs its business. Besides those, there are plenty more pages that exist to help consumers in various sections. Whichever you choose, just make sure it has a proper registration.

compare movers reviews

Compare Reviews of Several Movers

The modern age allows us to find basically anything about anybody. One benefit of the internet is that you can find NYC moving companies reviews and see how their moving went with the company you are considering. Search for relevant experience and don’t get discouraged if you come across one bad review. Pay attention to how the company responds to complaints because that will tell you about their customer service.

Get in Touch

Upon reviewing reviews and narrowing down your options, it is recommended to contact each company. Despite positive comments, it is advisable to personally assess the company. Engaging with multiple representatives will provide insight into their treatment of potential customers.

Inquire about their credibility, experience, services, potential issues, and insurance. Pose all relevant questions to aid in your decision-making process. Observe their level of politeness and willingness to address your concerns. If satisfied with their customer service, proceed to request a quote.

Compare Quotes

Gaining an understanding of the average price is a crucial step in the process of selecting a moving company. The most effective approach is to obtain multiple quotes and evaluate the pricing offered by each provider. Reputable movers will typically provide an onsite estimate to ensure the accuracy of the pricing. Alternatively, a virtual estimate can be conducted via phone chat, during which a representative will conduct a walkthrough of your home.

Once you have obtained several quotes, it is important to compare the moving companies carefully. It is advisable to exercise caution when selecting the most affordable mover, as this may be indicative of fraudulent activity. Many unscrupulous companies offer prices that seem too good to be true, only to later reveal hidden costs that make the overall expense significantly higher.

movers pricing

Another reason for the extremely cheap price can be poor services, which you definitely want to avoid when moving house. Instead of going for the lowest price, rather search for a moving company that has a good balance between price and services, and that works best for your current situation.

Get Informed

The next thing to do when comparing moving companies is to them about their services. Ask your movers what kind of services are they offering, and what is included in the price they quoted. Compare services offered by different movers. Some movers will offer full-service, which includes packing NYC, carrying, transporting, basically the whole moving process.

Others might only offer transport or specialize in specific moves such as fine art movers, piano moving companies, etc. This can also be your red light when dealing with scams. The reason for that is that they offer a low quote but the truth is not much is included in it.

After the move is done, you will find that price is much higher than originally arranged because they will add extra services which end up being a surprising cost.

Questions

Once you went through checking the license and gave a call to the moving company, review how the call went. Moving is an important step in everybody’s lives and it should be as convenient as possible. Some questions can help you understand whether they are appropriate for hiring or not. After the call, ask yourself these questions:

  • Were they polite?
  • Have they offered to visit your home?
  • Have they provided a free estimate?
  • Was the estimate extremely different than other companies’ quotes?
  • Have they provided all information about their services?
  • Have they been opened to answer all of your questions?
  • What about their license – have they responded to your request to get physical proof of their license?

 

Are you searching for the top moving company NYC? Have you been wondering how to make the right choice and get the best service possible? Big Apple movers might be the right solution for you. Get online or contact us directly to get all the information about our business. We are happy to answer all of your questions and find the solution to all of your concerns. Our company has been successfully executing short-distance and long-distance moves. We also have skills and tools for any type of relocation, including office and commercial relocation. Contact us today to get free moving quotes NYC.

Importance of Moving Companies Reviews

Posted on by BigApple

Finding the right moving company in NYC can be a challenge with so many options available. Reputable movers should be your ally during relocation and make it a convenient and stress-free experience. If you are wondering how to make a choice, keep reading to learn about moving companies reviews in NYC.

How to Find for Moving Companies Reviews

Online

In contemporary times, a majority of corporations acknowledge the significance of social media networks as a potent tool for online information retrieval. Utilizing one of these platforms, one can easily locate and evaluate potential movers for hire by perusing customer reviews.

Established moving companies are likely to have a substantial number of comments on their pages on popular networks such as Facebook and Instagram, where previous customers share their experiences. Additionally, official websites of such companies often feature a dedicated section for customer feedback and reviews.

Ask around 

An effective approach to obtaining a review is to request recommendations from acquaintances regarding a moving company. It is advisable to seek a referral from someone who has had a positive experience with the company recently. It is recommended to approach friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and other individuals within your network to suggest a company.

Inquire about their experience and the specific aspect that they found most satisfactory. Obtaining feedback from actual individuals may provide sufficient insight to assist in making an informed decision and ensure that a reliable company is hired.

Negative comments 

If you see one bad comment, don’t let it discourage you, as no service will ever satisfy every single person equally. As long as most of the reviews are positive, that can be a good sign. However, pay attention to how movers respond to those negative comments.

This will tell you about their customer service. Check if their replies are focused on finding a solution rather than blaming a customer or being rude and disregarding a problem. Also, check if those comments seem reliable and relevant to the service you are looking for.

Importance of Moving Companies Reviews

With many choices in NYC, it can be easy to overpay for services that are not the best. If not checking ratings and credibility, you might easily get caught up in a scam. For those reasons, you want to make sure that movers have satisfied customers to prove their services are up to standards. 

Online Moving Companies Reviews Can Help You Choose the Right Mover

What to Look for in Moving Companies Reviews

Start from the big picture 

Commence by obtaining a comprehensive impression from the customer. Was their experience convenient and stress-free? Are they content with the final outcome? The ultimate result of their collaboration with the movers is of utmost importance as it will provide pertinent feedback and aid in the search for comparable services.

Situation 

Check if there is a description of the situation. Consider information such as destination, the size of the household, time of the year, etc. This will help you identify your needs in their comment. For instance, they might be writing about long-distance while you need a local move service, so it’s easier to look for comments relevant to your situation.

Customer service 

This is a very important aspect for many customers. Everyone wants to get great customer service and trust the company they are paying. Check if there were any particular situations included in the review. Pay attention if they pointed out things like good communication, taking time to answer questions, being polite during the interaction, etc. 

Issues 

Search for comments that are describing any incidents that occurred during the moving process. It is important to find out the way that movers handled the incident because it will explain their customer service and their expertise.

What to Do After

After you have done your research and found a company that has good reviews it is time to give them a call. Speaking with a representative will give some insight into the way they operate.

Even when other people are satisfied, it is always best to see for yourself. Ask your movers as many questions as you need to understand their services and credibility. It is also a good time to see how their customer service is.

If they are not open to answering your question, search for a different company. They should also ask questions to understand your needs and meet them accordingly.  

Questions to ask your movers

1. License number

Ask if they can provide proof of their license and insurance number? Check websites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), requiring a company to go through the vetting process before being BBB accredited. Another great organization is the American Moving & Storage Association whose membership confirms that a moving company is credible and trustworthy.

2. Experience

Ask your moving company how much experience they have. Check for how many years they have been in business. Not necessarily a rule of thumb, but it is much easier to confirm credentials if movers have been operating for years.

3. Hidden costs

It’s crucial to understand what is included in the price and which services they are offering. Always opt for movers that support a transparent payment system. That means that you know exactly what to expect and no unexpected costs will appear after the move. 

4. Paperwork

Reliable movers will make sure both parties involved are protected. That means that you and they have a signed agreement with details about your move. 

5. Estimate

A very important question to ask is how they provide a moving estimate. A reputable moving company will always offer to visit your home. They should also offer to do a walkthrough over a video call. Most companies will have measures of precaution for moving during the coronavirus outbreak, so online estimates can be more convenient for you. 

If you are searching for a reputable moving company with good reviews, Brooklyn movers and storage might be the right fit for you. Big Apple Moving is an NYC based company with over 40 years of experience. Contact us anytime to get free moving quotes.

Useful Tips for Spotting Moving Scams

Posted on by BigApple

Moving scams are surprisingly common nowadays. Moving is a complex and difficult process, and there are people out there who prey on people amid the chaos and confusion that moving can sometimes cause. That is why you should always opt for a moving company that you can trust, and that has a transparent paying method. Before hiring movers, make sure that you check the credibility and reliability of the moving company. Ask for a recommendation from a friend who recently moved and research online NYC moving companies reviews of several movers before you make a choice. If they have reviews from satisfied customers, you can proceed and contact them to get a further insight into their services.

lap top that says fraud alert - avoid Manhattan moving scams
Check online reviews to avoid Manhattan moving scams

We prepared for you some tips that can help you identify moving scams. Follow these steps to avoid getting scammed by shady or unlicensed moving companies.

How rogue movers operate

Illegitimate moving companies generally source their marks through the internet. Often they use black hat SEO tactics to rank in Google for things people search for when they’re looking for moving companies. Here are a few things that generally imply a fraudulent moving company:

Estimate without visual

Scamming moving companies will give you an estimate over the phone or through an email. Every company will need a visual to provide a Brooklyn moving quote. Because the price is based on a total load (weight or size), this is absolutely necessary. If they give you the price without visual of your household, it implies that you are on a good road to be a victim of a scam.

Extremely low price

These companies will quote the price which is usually much lower than what most companies would quote you. Don’t settle quickly at the lowest price offered. Some companies will be more affordable than others, but if an offered quote seems too good to be true, then it probably is. No matter how cheap some movers might be, they still have to cover for some expenses like gas for moving vehicles and labor.

Extremely Low Price
Be wary of rogue moving companies that offer extremely low price

Unexpected bill

After your move, your bill will be significantly higher than you expected. If you refuse to pay or are unable to, they will hold your belongings hostage until you do. On the other hand, a trusted company will offer different types of quotes and you will sign a contract depending on your needs and possibilities. There are binding, non-binding, and binding-not-to-exceed contracts, but every contract should have a transparent price and no surprising expenses after the move is done.

Red flags to look for to avoid moving scams

Here are some of the most common red flags that signify that you might be encountering a moving scam. When you’re shopping around for local moving companies, these can give you an idea of what to avoid.

Movers won’t agree to an onsite inspection

To give you an accurate estimate for the cost of your move, we need to visually assess what you need us to move. We’ll need you to show us your home and belongings so we can get an accurate idea of what you’ll probably pay. No reputable moving company would give you a non-binding estimate without a visual inspection. If they do so, it’s usually a sign that something’s not right. An online estimate is often, and convenient, especially during COVID-19 pandemic. However, a reputable moving company New York will always be willing to visit your home and provide an onsite estimate. It is up to you to choose which option you prefer.

Movers demand a large cash deposit before the move

In Florida, moving companies are required to accept a minimum number of payment types, as delineated in Florida Statues Chapter 507. We will never insist on cash. If someone does, it could mean that they’re committing tax fraud, or otherwise doing something shady that requires them to avoid leaving a paper trail. You should ask your movers as many questions as you need to understand the moving costs and insist on signing a contract. Inquire about additional charges that might apply for extra services, like packing or transporting large items.

A Large Cash Deposit Indicates a Moving Scam
Be wary of moving companies that demand a large cash deposit before the move

They don’t provide you with the right paperwork

Movers are legally required to provide you with a document called “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”. We may provide a paper copy of this PDF link from the FMCSA website. It is important that both parties involved are protected, and paperwork is essential in collaboration. Don’t hire movers that are not providing paperwork for their services.

The company’s website doesn’t have their information. Their site should include a local address and a phone number where you can reach them. Fraudulent movers often lack a physical address, and may actually be a moving broker disguised as a moving company. Reliable moving companies will always have their own website, along with all the information and contacts.

Avoid moving scams with professional movers in NYC

Are you searching for reputable movers and storage NYC? At Big Apple Moving, we help local homeowners, renters, and commercial businesses. Whether you are moving within the area or moving a long distance, we will transfer your belongings safely. We will be happy to answer any questions that you might have, and provide reliability and credibility. Call us any time to get started, or contact us to get in touch today.

Hire Professional Movers to Avoid Moving Scams
Professional movers unloading the cardboard boxes in the van

 

 

Important Questions To Ask Your Movers

Posted on by BigApple

Relocation is always exciting, and it can be one of the best decisions you have ever made, but we all know that moving to a new place is not an easy job and you will need all the help you can get. If you want your moving day to be perfect, without surprises and problems, you will want to hire a professional moving company. Finding a moving company that fits your needs is first and one of the most important steps.

Before hiring a moving company, you will want to know that you have chosen the right one, and you will need to ask a lot of questions about paperwork, moving costs, estimates and about the company itself. Here is a thorough list of questions to ask your movers, knowing answers to all of those questions will leave no place for surprises and last-minute changes.

Questions About the Moving Company

big apple moving company

1. Is Your Moving Company Licensed and Insured?

Firstly you need to make sure that you are not dealing with a fake moving company in order to protect yourself from moving frauds. Check is your moving company in compliance with all laws and regulations. Almost all of the legitimate moving companies are licensed and insured with the US Department of Transportation, and their USDOT number is issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA), you can check this number online to make sure that your moving company is working legally.

2. How Many Years Has Your Company Been in the Business?

Ask about history. New moving companies can be great too, but if the company has been in the business for a long time and it is still competitive that can show you that they have provided their customers with satisfactory results in the past. Moving companies keep their track records and those records are great evidence of the quality of their services.

3. Are All Your Movers Experienced or You Hire Temporary Employees?

Many moving companies will hire temporary employees during busy months and moving season. Those workers can lack experience and make many mistakes that experienced movers would never make. You should always request a professional moving crew.

4. Your Company Responsible for All the Services or Are There Any Third Parties Included?

You have the right to request information about any third parties or subcontractors. In many cases, some services will be transferred to someone else, and you want to make sure that all of the services are handled by professionals. Ask your movers who will be responsible for packing, unpacking, delivery, storage, and even paperwork.

5. Can You Show Me References and Recommendations?

If your movers are providing great services, they will be satisfied with their previous work and they will be glad to show you some reviews and recommendations. You should definitely look for online reviews before making any contact with the company and if you like what you see you should ask them to provide you with some references by request.

6. How Often Are Your Vehicles Serviced?

This may not seem as important as other questions so far but proper vehicle maintenance is a great sigh of an eminent moving company. Apart from that, if the vehicles are serviced on a regular basis it is much less likely that any accident will occur and you can be much calmer knowing that your belongings are safe.

7. You Guarantee the Dates?

Ask your movers can they guarantee the dates of pickup and delivery or will they provide you with some delivery window? If they can guarantee the date, you need to make sure that they will take responsibility if they miss it.

8. What is Your Policy for Handling Claims and Complaints?

You need to check how will your moving company handles claims and complaints, are they willing t work on them until the compromise is reached and will they try to find the way to resolve the problem in a way that will be satisfactory for both sides.

9. What is Your Cancelation Policy?

Always ask about the cancelation policy, ask is the deposit refundable if you need to cancel and ask how it works if you need to change the date of the move.

Questions About Moving Documentation and Estimates

Moving Documentation and Estimates

1. Is Your Company Insured and Liable for Damage?

Basic liability protection covers only $0,60 per lbs per item. A professional moving company should provide you with full protection, and you should ask if you can pay an extra fee to ensure your belongings by their cost.

2. What Kind of Estimates Do You Offer? Learn About Binding and Non-binding Estimates.

There are two types of moving estimates, binding estimates guarantee the total price of your move while non-binding estimates can be increased based on several factors. Make sure you know what type of estimate will your movers provide you with.

3. What Documentation Will I Need to Sign?

Ask your movers about every document before you sign anything. You should also ask them will they be able to provide you with all of the necessary documentation.

Information About Packing and Delivery

Packing and Delivery

1. Do You Have the Necessary Gear and Equipment?

Every moving job is different, make sure that your moving company owns tools, gear, and equipment for your particular situation.

2. Do You Provide an Inventory List?

You can request a full inventory from your movers, that is the only way to know that they have measured your items properly. You should also have your own copy and many pictures of the content of the boxes.

3. Do You Provide Packing Services?

Check what types of packing services your movers offer, how much they cost per type and is there anything you will need to prepare.

4. Can I Do the Packing by Myself?

You need to check what is the liability policy if you are packing by yourself, also, ask your mover do you need to label the boxes in some specific way.

5. Do You Offer Property Prevention?

You have already asked about the protection of your belongings but what about your property. You need to check will your movers protect the walls, floors and door frames.

6. What Happens if Some of My Stuff is Broken or Missing?

This question is connected to the insurance plan and value protection plan, but you should always check are your mover ready to reimburse your broken or missing items and will they resolve those kinds of problems in a peaceful manner.

7. How Long Will the Moving Take?

You should always ask how long will the job take, you will have a lot of preparation to do and you will need to know how to organize your time.

8. What Happens if the Moving Truck Arrives Before Me?

Ask the movers will they organize additional storage if your belongings arrive before you and how much will you need to pay for that. Ask your movers can they offer available storage facilities.

Questions About Fees and Charges

fees and charges

Lastly, here is the list of the most important payment and moving cost related questions to ask your moving company. Moving can be really pricey, and you will want to know every single detail about moving costs, our list covers it all:

1. Do You Request a Deposit and How Much is It?

2. How Do You Determine the Cost of the Moving Job?

3. What Do You Consider Extra Services and How Much Do They Cost?

4. Do You Charge for the Travel Time to and From My House?

5. Are There Any Fees for Oversized Items?

6. What About the Fuel Charges?

7. Are There Any Extra Fees I Should Know About?

8. Are There Any Promotions or Discounts Available?

9. What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

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