When it comes to hiring a moving company, there is a lot of information out there about the basic process. Everyone knows the importance of getting multiple quotes before booking movers, and that you should always get estimates in writing. There are some more detailed aspects of working with professional Toronto house movers that you might be unfamiliar with, however. Here are four things you might not have thought to ask, but you can’t afford to overlook.
1. How do you bill for services? Is a deposit required?
Some companies will require an upfront payment or partial payment for services. Hourly moving services will typically request a deposit and then ask for full payment once services are completed because they cannot know the total until the job is done. For their own security, a growing number of companies want to automatically withdrawal the balance after the service is completed. There might not always be a discussion about this, but companies will include it in the fine print and expect you to read every word. Be proactive and ask what is expected of you when it comes to paying your house movers.
2. Do you charge for mileage?
There are two major types of moving options: flat-rate moves and hourly moving. A flat-rate may be better for something like a long distance move while hourly services might be fine for a small, local move. Both of these moves may also require you to pay mileage. Some companies charge this fee in addition to their rates, while others roll it in and charge only one fee for the sake of simplicity. Regardless, you need to know whether you’re expected to pay it or not. While you’re at it, ask what other fees or charges you may incur, if any.
3. What about furniture disassembly and reassembly?
Again, this service is going to vary from one company to the next. Some house movers will include taking apart beds and other large pieces in their service as a standard part of the move. Others will charge extra or require you to disclose that you need these services ahead of time. The same goes for furniture blankets, appliance dollies, and other tools that will make the move go smoothly.
4. Do you own a proper warehouse with your own equipment and vehicles?
A lot of smaller moving companies might seem to offer cheap rates that you can’t pass up, but what you don’t know is how they’re operating. Small companies keep their rates lower by operating out of a home or small office, and often by renting or leasing trucks on an as-needed basis. While this might not seem to be something that matters to you, think about how it could affect your move. At the very least, movers need to have their own fleet of trucks. This will guarantee they will be there with the right equipment on your moving day.
There are a lot of details involved in the moving process. By planning ahead and knowing what to expect, though, you can make sure you hire the right people for the job every time.