Moving Companies - Van Lines

Typically, moving companies use moving vans, but for international moves or where storage is required they may use special containerized vans or shipping containers.

National moving companies are typically organized with local branches or affiliated agents. That affiliation may be in the form of a franchise, wherein the local agent is a franchise of a national company, or a cooperative, wherein the local agent owns a share of the national company. There are also many small independent moving companies who operate within any given local area. Picking the right moving company can make or break a move. Research tells us that moving is usually one of the most stressful events in a person's life.

But with planning and care, you can make your move a lot less stressful. Here are some great tips for hiring a moving company or a Residential Mover.

When You Can Get The Best Deal From A Moving Company

From May to September, movers and moving companies are extremely busy. Everyone wants to move when school is out. If you can arrange for your move at any other time of year, you have a much better chance of securing a high quality move from the company of your choice.

If you have school age children, moving during the school year may also be better for them. School gives them the quick opportunity to be "special" and make friends as compared to summer when neighbors may be away. Also, most movers offer lower prices between the months of October and April.

Similarly, most people want to move at the very beginning or the very end of the month, because most rent and mortgage payments are due on the first of each month. However, if you can arrange for your move in the middle of the month, you will not only increase the likelihood of getting a top-notch crew and the mover you want, but the exact pickup and delivery dates you require. Vancouver Listings | Renters Insurance | Moving to Vancouver

You should have your moving company booked at least 6 weeks before you plan to move. Waiting until the last minute may force you to settle for a higher price and/or shoddy service.
 

How Do I Find A Good Mover or Moving Company

Ask friends and family about their experiences with movers they have used. You may want to select a mover who is a member of the American Moving and Storage Association. These certified movers have agreed to arbitrate disputes of up to $5,000 arising from loss or damage to the articles in your shipment. This could save you the hassle and cost of taking a mover to court.

Once you have a list of at least three movers, have them come to your home for an estimate. Inform them of the destination and timing of your move. Ask them to explain their estimates in detail and to give you a copy. Then carefully compare to see which mover best suits your needs and budget.

Avoid getting moving estimates

via telephone or the Internet, unless you have to because of time constraints. Only a very general estimate of costs can be obtained by phone or the Internet.
 
Another way to compare movers and moving companies is to contact your local Better Business Bureau. They can tell you how many complaints they have received about a company, if any. Keep in mind that a mover with no complaints on record isn't necessarily perfect. Also, Better Business Bureaus only record complaints about their members.