The relocation is not a frequent situation, as people usually don’t like to make such a huge change. But if you have a job or education opportunity happening once in a lifetime, you have to make a sacrifice. Going across the country is not easy even when you go on vacation; not to mention when you have to start your whole life over.

Stress is the ‘faithful companion’ of moving. Keep in mind that long-distance relocation requires more costs and much more detailed preparation of going local. So people are in dilemma of hiring in professional movers or not. If money is not a problem, this decision is quite easy – use the relocation agency services. You’ll be sure the job is done well, and your things are safe.

Plus, you’re probably not familiar with all the rules and regulations, which can additionally complicate the situation. About the other benefits of hiring professional movers read below:

http://classifieds.usatoday.com/blog/services/8-reasons-hire-professional-movers/.

Where to Look for Relocation Agency

The current location is a critical factor when choosing movers. People in larger cities have a huge selection of agencies with which they can cooperate, but in smaller communities, that’s usually not possible. There are mainly a few agencies, and sometimes the single company is holding the monopoly on that market. 

When using the services of professional movers for the first time, the selection of the appropriate moving agency is vital to the success of the entire job. But how to find the best among so many offers? It is clear that you need someone reliable and, at the same time, has affordable prices and a good business reputation. Therefore, the first step is finding the right information about movers.

Do Double-Check of Moving Agency

There are several ways to collect information to help you choose the relocation agency. First, look for recommendations from your friends and relatives. The personal experience of the closest ones with moving professionals will save your time and shorten the search. The second way is to go online. During the Internet search, pay attention to the rating of moving company, reviews, and comments from clients, as well as the comparison of service costs.

Always compare several offers from national moving companies and be ready to negotiate. Every professional relocation agency will try to meet your needs and give an estimate quote. It’s up to you to decide whether the price and the services offered are appropriate for you. 

It is good to know what part of the moving you can do on your own. Then you’ll know which services you will negotiate with professional movers. For example, if your family and friends will help you pack and carry your stuff in a storage container or moving truck, feel free to delete these items from the list. This kind of help can bring significant savings, so don’t be shy to ask your closest ones for help.

Look for Licensed Movers

Today, reliable moving agencies have their websites. From there, you can see a lot and find the information you need. Look for the license number or check on the regulatory body website if the company is registered. Feel free to call movers and ask them for this information. It’s no violation of their business since the license number is public information. If they don’t give it to you or you can’t find it, do not cooperate with them because it is most likely a fraud.

Interstate Moving Regulations

Long-distance moving companies must have a DOT (Department of Transportation) number. It is a safe way to cross state borders without any problems. However, difficulties can arise in legal matters, as laws in countries can differ significantly. 

For example, some states do not allow the intake and transport of plants and animals within the moving trucks, but they have specific regulatory requirements that must be met. If you are traveling nationwide, talk to the movers about legal issues that you can encounter.

Ask Upfront about Extra Fees

Making an estimate quote of your moving doesn’t oblige you to work with the agency that made this assessment. Before signing a final contract, pay attention to all the items listed in that budget. Don’t sign anything you don’t understand. Ask about additional costs to avoid unpleasant surprises in the final bill.

Keep in mind that most companies additionally charge you for the services of bringing your belongings in and out of the truck, assembling and disassembling the furniture. Some movers even charge extra staying in warehouses where you need to take your stuff. Carrying things up and down the stairs or using the elevator is also an item that some professional movers will charge you.

Pay attention to advanced costs that companies charge for the engagement of third parties, like plumbers or electricians. These services in your old and new home are available at your request, and in most cases, they are charged within moving agency’s bill. 

Don’t Forget Insurance

Don’t cut corners on securing your property and household items. The same applies when you move. You never know what can happen during transport, and you can’t be 100% sure whom you trust your stuff. There are particular ways to transport valuable and important things, and what those are, read here.

Since long-distance moving can take several days or weeks, it often happens that you arrive at a new home before your stuff. In order not to worry if something is broken, damaged, or stolen, take the insurance policy that most trustworthy moving agencies have on offer. If movers don’t offer insurance, or they only accept cash, it is a warning sign that you will deal with an unreliable agency.

If you have a tight budget for your relocation, and you take care of every dollar spent, think carefully before engaging professionals. A moving company is necessary for some situations, and long-distance moving is one of them. You’ll waste much more money, time, and energy if you take over the entire organization of moving.