6 Things Local Moving Companies Won’t Tell You Up Front

Some of those consumers who hire local moving companies for a quick relocation find it hard to really know what they’re getting in terms of a moving service. Some of the smaller local movers have an easier time stepping around the tough questions than national companies who have a prominent reputation to uphold. So what kind of problems can be run into with cheap moving companies? Sure, they can lie about the price, but there are some other additional issues that you want to watch out for when hiring small moving companies that you don’t know much about. Here are some of the things a local company might not say to you, even if they are true.

1. Our Company Is Not Bonded and/or Insured

Those companies who are bonded and insured will tell you, but those who aren’t probably won’t. Check and make sure the company has the appropriate business solutions in place, and can offer you insurance for your move.

2. There’s No Crew Lined Up

Common sense aside, some local business owners may be inclined to accept moving jobs without first lining up a crew. Ask about who will be handling your possessions on moving day.

3. We’re Not Investing in Equipment

Especially with smaller companies, there is a general assumption that there might be a little more hard manual labor involved. However, without some of the basic tools that are standard in the industry, your small local company may be relying too much on manual labor and not enough on equipment. Almost invariably, this leads to some liabilities for your possessions, no matter how brawny the crew is. Standard equipment like hand trucks, tie-downs, lift gates and more help make moves more efficient by relieving some of the pressure on the human muscle that is getting your stuff where it needs to go. Check into what equipment the company has to make sure they are prepared for handling your move.

4. We Employ Anyone

If a local company is “doing someone a favor” by employing them regardless of negative marks on their record, they are not liable to tell you about it. The same goes for inexperience: if their driver has little skill behind the wheel of a truck, they’re not going to advertise this either. Some employees with questionable backgrounds or lack of experience gravitate towards the small local companies who may hire them out of necessity or simply neglect to do any kind of hiring screening.

5. When It Comes to Damage, You’re On Your Own

Most of the big shops have a specific damage policy for your goods. Small, local shops may not. If they are relying on conducting your move accident-free, you may want to know this before they start.

6. You’re Our First Customer Ever

Along with inexperienced employees, you may be getting a somewhat green company. It’s sometimes hard to know how much experience a local company has under their belt, especially dealing with specific customized types of moves.

All of these are things to look out for in dealing with a local mover who you have found through simple local advertising or word of mouth. Ask the tough questions up front to get the quality service you deserve.