Are you getting ready to move? It is very important to do research before hiring a moving company. If you hire a bad moving company, then you are putting your property and money at risk. Fortunately, there are easy ways to verify whether a moving company is good or bad before making a final decision. Our guide can help you perform research before hiring a California moving company.
Look Up the Company Online
The most logical first step is to find a moving company by using Google and Yelp. Look for companies in your area, ensure they have a physical address and look at their reviews. Bad reviews are a red flag, especially if there are accusations of theft or fraud. You may also be able to determine how long the company has been in business. If the company changed its name, it could mean they have a bad reputation or had their transportation carrier license revoked in the past.
There are a couple of other factors to consider before making your choice. The Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) website is a great way to determine whether you are hiring an ethical moving company. See if you can pull up the company’s listing on the BBB website. You could also ask internet or professional real-estate groups for a good moving company.
Ask Friends, Co-Workers and Family
Referrals are a great way to find any type of business, including a moving company. You could ask friends, families and coworkers whether they had luck with a specific moving company in the past.
By using a referral, you are protecting yourself from fraud or theft. People you trust would surely tell you if a company helped them perform a successful move without any issues.
Verify Whether the Company Has a License
Your next step should be to verify whether the company you are looking at has a transportation carrier license in California. Without a license, moving companies are not authorized to provide moving services in California.
Household goods carriers are regulated by the Bureau to the Bureau of Household Goods and Services. You can check whether the moving company has a license by visiting the California Public Utilities Commission’s website.
Will the Company Do a Site Visit?
Moving companies should visit your residence or business to determine how much the move could cost. Verbal estimates are barred by California law and may not be enforceable. You should call the company beforehand and ask whether they will do a site visit and provide a cost estimate.
Avoid Hiring a Company Strictly On Price
A more expensive moving company does not necessarily mean a better moving company. You should practice due diligence and research the company carefully beforehand, regardless of the price.
Furthermore, moving companies are required to provide you with a “not to exceed” price for household moves.
Does the Company Provide Its Own Staff and Equipment?
You should determine whether the company you are looking at provides its own staff and equipment. If a company is a broker, then it could mean you are taking on unnecessary risks. Brokers cannot legally operate in California. Call the company beforehand and ask if they use their own equipment and staff.
Our San Jose Moving Company Helps Residents and Businesses
All Reasons Moving & Storage is a San Jose moving company with extensive experience helping residents and businesses. We are also one of the first Certified ProMover companies in California. If you need help performing a move for your residence or business, then give us a call at (408) 351-9515. You can also use our online contact form.