When it comes to shipping your moving boxes and belongings, you should look for the best you can afford. The last thing you want is to pay for a company to box and ship your things and then discover they broke half of the contents during the move. When choosing movers, keep in mind:

1. Bad reviews are more important than good ones. The good ones could be fake, but the ones are likely to be from dissatisfied customers. Do a Google search for the name of the company you’re considering. See what’s being said about it and how realistic the complaints are. Somebody complaining that the delivery was three hours late is not the same as somebody complaining of two boxes disappearing.
2. Get referrals if you can. Ask friends, family members and coworkers for a recommendation. If somebody else used the company with success, you’re already in a better place than if you were hiring a faceless company off the Internet.
3. Don’t hire somebody who’s too cheap. If you get similar quotes from most shipping companies and a single very low one, ask yourself why. Will the services covered be less? What’s missing? Does the price include insurance? Make sure you find out why you’re getting such a bargain.

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While it’s true that you have rights when it comes to contracting a moving company, it’s also true that some things are considered standard across the board. Understanding how moving companies operate will make it easier to know what to expect and help you prepare for the unexpected.

1. Moving companies are obligated to provide written estimates upon request.

2. Estimates are not binding, which means that actual charges may be higher or lower than what you see on paper.

3. Guaranteed pickup and delivery dates are usually possible if you talk to the company in advance and arrange for it. Otherwise, delivery times may vary.

4. Companies are responsible for the safe shipping and delivery of your packing boxes, but they may not be responsible for everything that’s inside. Before you pack your stuff away, request a list of forbidden items so you know what NOT to pack.

5. You can request to be present when your moving boxes are weighed.

6. Non-binding estimates require you to pay when you receive the shipping. Make sure you check in advance with the company to ensure what methods of payments are accepted: credit card, cash or money orders.

7. Additional charges may apply if movers need to carry moving boxes up or down stairs, move pianos and other heavy furniture, pack or unpack items or other extra activities beyond simply transporting the boxes.

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