Tips for signing a moving contract

When you choose to move, it is always a good idea to hire professional help. Reliable professionals will fulfill the agreed terms in the agreed time. However, it is not always easy knowing the difference between a reliable and a fraudulent moving company. When you are signing a moving contract, you should know what to look out for. If you are not careful enough, you might end up losing a lot of money. That is why you should inform yourself about all the things that go into signing a contract with a moving company. Our tips will ensure that your move is safe and as easy as possible.

Research moving companies before signing a moving contract

The best way to know if a moving company is reliable is to do research of your own. Visit their website and read the reviews you find there. Moreover, you can ask them for recommendations from clients that you can call and verify. A fraudulent company will only have fake reviews, which are designed to attract customers. Additionally, you can ask friends and family for their feedback. You will surely get an honest review from the people close to you.

When you have narrowed down your search to 3-4 moving companies, have estimators come to your home for a realistic estimate. Those done over the phone are not reliable. If a moving company refuses to send out an estimator, you should know that you are probably dealing with a fraudulent company. Additionally, check out websites like Master Moving Guide for a more complete picture of what a successful move looks like. You can find a lot of advice on the Internet about the logistics of moving.

Types of moving estimates

An estimate is a quote that a moving company gives you for the estimated cost of your move. There are two types of moving estimates:

Binding estimate

You have probably often wondered what is a binding estimate. With so many different types of estimates, it is hard to keep track. However, it is simpler than it sounds. A binding estimate means that you will pay exactly the amount that is written on your estimate, no more or no less. On the other hand, it also means that you have to notify movers if you want to add any more items or weight to your shipment. This usually means extra costs. Moreover, any additional services that the movers provide you, such as unpacking, will be billed separately.

Non-binding estimate

A non-binding estimate, on the other hand, is simply an estimated value of your moving costs. It is susceptible to change and it doesn’t have to be the actual amount you pay once you have moved. However, the movers cannot charge you more than 10 percent more of what your estimate was. Unlike a binding estimate, all the extra services and costs are already included in the non-binding estimate.

Opt for insurance when you sign a moving contract

Even though it might cost a little extra, getting moving insurance for your belongings is definitely worth it. Sometimes movers themselves can lose or damage your things. This happens if the workers are not experienced or careful enough. However, accidents that are not anybody’s fault can happen and your things still might suffer. That is why you should always ask for insurance when signing a contract with a moving company. If you do end up with damaged goods, you can file an insurance claim and get your money back. This is also a good failsafe if the movers end up driving away with your things. In any case, better safe than sorry.

Make sure all the information is there

The true work comes after you have completed all of the steps above. This is the time when you actually have the contract in front of you. While you might just want to sign it and get it over with, you should pay close attention when signing a moving contract. Make sure that you read every aspect covered, especially the fine print. This is where many scam companies try to add additional costs which you shouldn’t be paying for. If you don’t completely understand the language of the contract, ask for help. Some of your friends or family which have moved might have experience with this type of contract. If not, ask for professional legal help. It might prevent you from dealing with fraudulent movers.

Additionally, ask that every aspect of your move is listed in the contract. This includes other services such as packing and unpacking, storage rental, long-distance costs, and other charges. If it is not clearly stated in the contract, there is no guarantee that you will actually be provided with that service. Finally, read the terms and conditions of the company itself. They might not be stated in the contract in full, so you should ask the company what exactly they entail.

Never pay in advance when signing a moving contract

Moving can be very expensive, especially if you are moving long distance. With all the added expenses and services, it can be hard to keep track. However, there is one simple thing you can do when signing a moving contract to ensure you don’t lose money. Never pay for the cost of moving before you actually receive your belongings. If a company asks you to pay the whole fee up front, this could mean that they are trying to scam you. While some reliable companies do ask for an advance, they will never ask for the full payment before the actual job is done. When you pay beforehand, there is nothing that stops the movers from simply driving away with your items. Moreover, they might hold your things hostage and demand for more money. So keep your wits about you and think before you agree to anything suspicious.