Find the best moving companies
Moving an entire household is stressful enough without having to deal with a disreputable moving company. uShip lets you check out the feedback, references and history of movers before hiring them. A mover’s uShip profile will also inform you of the company’s insurance coverage and legal credentials. Knowing this background information will help you choose the perfect mover and give you confidence in their ability to get your things where they’re going in one piece.
Verify your moving company’s authority
Before considering a moving company, ensure they are legally registered as a mover. The Department of Transportation requires all household moving companies to have USDOT or MC numbers. You will find these numbers on the carrier’s uShip profile. All legal movers should provide you with these numbers, which you can verify on SAFER. At this site you can search by company name or USDOT number to make sure that your mover is credentialed to provide household moving services.
Check your coverage
In addition to being registered with the Department of Transportation, all household moving companies are required to carry a minimum amount of insurance. Coverage varies from mover to mover, so be sure to ask for each company’s specific policy. The basic policy is often outlined in the carrier’s uShip profile, but they should also provide you with written proof of their coverage. Confirming a mover’s insurance is easy: look them up on SAFER or call the insurance company listed on the certificate. You should also be able to purchase additional protection directly from the moving company.
Home moves transported through uShip are eligible for the uShip Protection Plan, allowing you to purchase additional protection right at checkout.
Confirm payment terms
Before signing a contract, be sure that you are clear on the moving company’s terms of payment. There are several methods to pay the company, including uShip payments, cash, check and credit card. Make sure these details are worked out with your company and documented prior to your move, so no issues arise based on miscommunication. Most companies will require a deposit up front, with the rest of the payment due at the time of the move. The final price of your move should be very close to the estimate provided, unless the details of your move have changed.
Research business records and moving company reviews
The best way to determine the professionalism of a moving company is to investigate previous customers’ experiences. Consider all aspects of the carrier’s profile including the feedback rating of previous customers and cancellations. If a transporter is just starting out, they may not have a very detailed feedback score on uShip. You can still have confidence in new transporters with evidence of their policies, legal authority, reference letters and insurance. You might also check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints filed against the company.
