Why a Moving Company is Important

Whether you move locally or long distance, a professional can make your move easier, faster and safer. Here are some things to look for when contracting with a moving company. Most of us have moved at least once in our lives. Some of us have moved more times than we have fingers. Although each move is different, there are some key aspects to keep in mind for any move. The watchword is to hire a professional mover, not "Joe" from down the street.

First, a professional moving company knows how to pack, wrap and otherwise protect things during the move. Are they perfect in this department? Certainly not! However, they have the heavy duty and properly sized boxes that fit specific contents. They know how to wrap mirrors, pictures and furniture to eliminate or at least, hopefully, lessen scratches and other damage. They know how to load and unload a truck to protect contents and reduce movement during transit. In addition, they have that packing paper to ensure box contents do not shift around, bump into fragile objects or crush things. For one of our moves, the moving company even built a wooden case to house a heavy, breakable stone table.

Just in case the moving company does damage something, you need to have insurance. You can use your own homeowner's coverage, but if you make a claim on this, your homeowner's rate may go up. Instead, you can purchase insurance from the moving company. Basic coverage is known as "60 cents a pound." This means that if something breaks, it is weighed and you collect 60 cents a pound. If your heirloom thousand dollar lead crystal vase gets broken, you might receive only a few dollars for it.

Instead, you can buy full coverage insurance. It costs more (obviously), but you get a lot more coverage. To help lower costs, you can assume some of the loss risk and buy at a higher deductible. In the case of the vase, you would get a thousand dollars less your deductible. The deductible holds for the entire shipment, not each item. So, once you meet the deductible, everything else is replacement value.

Some items can be repaired rather than replaced. Count on the moving company's insurance carrier to opt for this approach unless the item is a collectible or it is broken beyond repair.

For specific valuables (e.g., expensive paintings or other artwork), list the item on the insurance policy and be sure you have photographs and documentation to back up any claims.

Professional moving companies can also set up things in your new residence. This can include reassembling the bedroom armoire, office desk or other large items. They can also move these into your new home, sometimes even having to hoist them through upstairs windows. You know, it is hard to navigate a king size mattresses through winding staircases.

Although moving companies often give non-binding estimates, some do provide "not to exceed" estimates.

Finally, even with a professional moving company, be involved. Double-check how items are coded for initial damages and imperfections and be there during the packing and unpacking process. Make sure boxes are labeled correctly and that they indicate the proper destination room.

The relocation (even across town) can be traumatic enough. However, a professional moving company can help take away some of the angst.

If you're looking for more information about Seattle movers visit our website today.