When getting ready for the long distance moving process to Vancouver, speak to several moving companies to make sure you get a good deal with safe, reputable movers.
Before You Call Moving Companies
Before you start calling around, take a few minutes to figure out exactly what you want and need for your move. Ask these questions:
› What are your preferred moving dates?
› Are you moving across any borders?
› Do you want to get help with packing, hire packers, or just pack yourself?
› Do you need to purchase or rent packing supplies?
› Are you using the movers for any fragile or valuable items?
› Do you need
storage facilities?
› What is your
insurance situation like?
Before talking to anyone, find out if your current
home insurance will cover your move and find out the extent of that coverage. Anything less than “All Risk” coverage means you’re not fully covered. See Getting Moving Insurance & Storage Insurance for more information.
Questions to Ask Movers
First, compile a list of movers to call. Ask friends and family members for recommendations. Once you have a list of moving companies, ask them the following questions:
› Does the company provide written materials that outline liability and coverage of damage, loss or theft? Not having this information available or clearly defined can be a sign of a company with poor service that may not respond to claims.
› Who insures the moving company? Ask for the company name and policy number so you can confirm they carry adequate insurance.
› Who is actually conducting the move? Does the moving company sub-contract equipment or personnel? If they are sub-contracting, find out what company or companies they use, and look into their reputation. Make sure these companies are also properly insured.
› What company is providing services on the Vancouver side, like storage, claims handling, and unpacking? Is it the original company, an affiliate, or someone else?
› Who is operating the storage space? If your long distance moving company is providing storage as part of the move, find out if they or a third party maintains and operates the facility. See Choosing a Storage Company for more tips.
› Where will the truck and your belongings be parked if the truck needs to be left over night? Make sure that your belongings are safe wherever they are.
› Does the moving company have a certificate from your provincial or state workers’ compensation board or equivalent? Make sure you aren’t responsible for any workers injured during the packing and moving.
Getting an Estimate from Movers
Reputable movers will want to do an on-site inspection to provide the best possible quote, and will provide all quotes and assurances in writing. Here’s a list of things to be aware of when getting an estimate:
› Only deal with moving companies that do an on-site inspection. If they insist a quote over the phone is good enough, you’re better off dealing with another company.
› Show all your belongings to movers and ask for the price of adding additional items on the day of the move. If the price is based on weight, find out the penalties for additional weight, and ensure you can be present for the actual weighing. Make sure your agreement allows for a second weighing if there is a disagreement.
› Provide exact information about the location of your old and new home. Avoid additional charges by providing as much information as possible, including potential obstacles, both outside and in, like hedges and stairs.
› Beware of quoted rates that are much lower than competitors. Avoid companies that offer to give you a better rate, or not charge taxes for a cash payment. These can be hints of a shady mover who is more likely to have poor service/hidden charges, refuse to pay claims or even fail to deliver your belongings.
› Find out about deposits and claims. Some provinces and states require deposits to be held in trusts. Make sure you know the requirements for getting your deposit back.
› Coverage and liability details. There are many different coverage and liability options. Even those who pack the items can affect your coverage in the event of a claim. See Getting Moving Insurance & Storage Insurance for more information.
› Get EVERYTHING in writing. The estimate, and any assurances should all be in writing, on company letterhead. It should include all dates, hourly or flat rates, number of boxes to be moved, size and value of items. It should also have the full name of the person providing the quote.
Once you’ve spoken with several moving companies and you have your quotes, read over the details and fine print. This is very important as there are often additional charges for time waiting, weight restrictions, border crossings, etc. So really go through the fine print and be sure of what you agree to. Companies can simply hold onto your items until you agree to pay, so make sure there are no unfortunate surprises.
Choose your company, based on your budget and comfort level, and you’re all set.