The key to a stress-free move is finding a caring and experienced local moving company to handle the job.

With so many moving companies to choose from, customers must screen services carefully before signing a moving services contract.

Use these tips to find local movers who are trustworthy, hard-working, and can turn this normally stressful event into a positive one!

1. Seek Reviews and Referrals

Start the search for a local moving company by asking for referrals from friends and family who may have recently used these services or from some movers themselves.

Another way to find potential movers to research is to look for companies online and research their online reviews.

Word-of-mouth referrals and customer reviews on business websites as well as directory listings will provide a starting point to single out some services to do further research on.

2. Confirm Licensing, Insurance and Credentials

After finding a few moving companies with good reviews and positive referrals, go through the list and confirm that they are state-licensed and carry commercial liability insurance.

Then confirm with the state Department of Transportation and their insurance company that those licenses and policies are current and active.

Also, be sure that local movers have a physical, local address and not just a P.O. Box address and that they have been locally established for some time, as these are typically the more respected companies to hire.

3. Request Quotes from Multiple Moving Companies

With the preliminary research completed on a few moving companies, discuss the services they can provide and then request moving quotes from each.

Always seek an in-person estimate for greater accuracy and have each representative explain how the company charges for their services and what additional charges may apply for extra hours, extra weight, or packing and moving specialty or heavy items.

Avoid assuming the least expensive quote from a local moving company is the best one, as the decision should consider all aspects of their services, including insurance coverage, schedule flexibility, and other inclusions and exclusions.

4. Ask About Insurance and Valuation

Inquire about how each local mover handles liability for damaged or lost items, and the amount of insurance they provide to their customers.

The standard valuation provided by most moving companies is 60 cents per pound, which may not be sufficient protection.

Find out whether additional property insurance can be purchased from them or if customers should purchase moving insurance separately to adequately protect their personal belongings.

5. Watch Out for Red Flags

While screening moving companies to find the right one, look out for common red flags of less reliable companies.

Avoid services with no established online presence, companies that refuse to provide in-person estimates, do not give detailed written quotes and service contracts, or ask for payment before services.

None of these are standard practices in the moving industry and are signs of rogue moving companies that should never be hired by customers seeking these services.

Take The Time to Find Reliable Local Movers

Professional local moving companies with great reputations play an essential role in helping those relocating to a new home do so as easily as possible.

Some time researching and screening local movers should be devoted to finding an experienced and respected service that can help.

The extra effort will ensure a calm and trouble-free move executed by an honest, hard-working, and experienced moving company that cares about providing great service to its customers!