Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, and one of the most important things to consider when planning a move is the company you choose to hire. Before you hire a moving company, it’s crucial to check their licensing and insurance to ensure that your belongings will be safe and protected during the move.
Checking movers is an important step in ensuring a smooth and successful move. Before hiring a moving company, it’s crucial to verify their licensing and insurance to ensure that your belongings will be safe and protected during the move. You can check a company’s licensing status by visiting the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website and using their “Search for a Motor Carrier” tool. Additionally, you should ask for a copy of the company’s insurance certificate and make sure that it’s up to date. It’s also a good idea to check online reviews and ratings to get a sense of the company’s customer service and reliability, as well as checking with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see if they have any unresolved complaints or negative ratings. By taking these steps, you can make an informed decision and have confidence in your chosen moving company.
The first step in checking a mover’s licensing and insurance is to verify that they are licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This agency is responsible for regulating the moving industry and ensuring that moving companies adhere to federal regulations. To check a company’s licensing status, you can visit the FMCSA’s website and use their “Search for a Motor Carrier” tool. This will tell you if a company has a valid USDOT number, which is required for all interstate moving companies.
In addition to checking a mover’s licensing, it’s also important to verify their insurance coverage. Moving companies are required to have liability and cargo insurance, which protects your belongings in case of damage or loss during the move. Before hiring a company, ask them for a copy of their insurance certificate and make sure that it’s up to date. You should also ask about the specific coverage limits and what is and isn’t covered.
Another important consideration when checking a mover’s insurance is to ensure that they are compliant with the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) ProMover program. This program is designed to help consumers identify professional movers who follow industry standards for service and conduct. To be certified as a ProMover, a company must pass a background check and have the appropriate liability and cargo insurance.
It’s also important to note that while some companies may be licensed and insured, they may not always have the best reputation or track record. Before hiring a mover, it’s a good idea to check online reviews and ratings to get a sense of their customer service and reliability. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see if the company has any unresolved complaints or negative ratings.
In summary, choosing the right moving company can make a big difference in the overall experience of your move. By checking a mover’s licensing and insurance, you can ensure that your belongings will be protected and that the company you hire will provide the level of service and professionalism you expect. By taking the time to verify these credentials and also looking at customer reviews, you can make an informed decision and have a smooth moving experience.
