Local moving companies handle moves in a specific area—typically within the same state or city. However, they don’t have to be registered with the FMCSA like interstate movers.
To ensure you hire the best movers near you, there are a few key things to look for. Let Moving Companies Meridian provide the expert help you need.
Licensed and insured residential movers are a great choice when moving to a new home. You can rest assured that these movers have passed background checks and comply with all state regulations to provide a professional moving service. In the event of any damage or theft, you can file a claim with the company to receive compensation. This type of protection is not available with unlicensed movers who may not be able to provide you with the necessary evidence to file a claim or compensate you in the case of any mishaps.
You can verify a moving company’s license by looking up their USDOT number and searching them on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website(opens in a new window). You should also check whether they are members of any peak industry bodies, like the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA), which requires members to undergo regular checks to ensure they are adhering to strict industry standards.
Moving companies have years of experience in the industry and know exactly how to handle every aspect of a move, from packing fragile items safely to navigating bulky furniture through small hallways and doors. Licensed movers can also save you time and money by providing accurate estimates, expert advice and professional packing services.
In addition to licensing, reputable local movers carry liability insurance. This is a must-have for any moving company because it protects you in the unlikely event that your belongings are lost or damaged during transit. This type of insurance can cover the cost of repair or replacement.
It is important to note that movers who do not carry liability insurance are not licensed and should be avoided. Liability insurance is a must-have for any moving service and should not be taken lightly. Using unlicensed movers can lead to poor customer service, inaccurate estimates, and even fraud. Luckily, there are websites that track licensed movers and you can easily find a list of the best ones near you. You can also ask friends and family for recommendations and look up moving company reviews on 3rd party websites.
Custom Crating
For items that need a little extra protection, custom crating is a valuable service that safeguards oversized or fragile belongings for the duration of a local move. This specialized packing method involves building wooden crates to fit the exact dimensions and protective needs of items. During the build process, an expert will take precise measurements to create a perfect fit and ensure that each crate is safe from external pressures.
Unlike standard boxes or containers, crates are crafted from sturdy materials like wood and provide a level of durability that exceeds traditional packing options. The crates are then loaded with protective padding to prevent shifting during transit and can be secured with straps and bands for added security. Crates can be built on-site or offsite depending on the size of the item and the specific protection requirements.
In addition to providing unparalleled protection, custom crates are also compliant with international shipping standards. This is particularly important for long-haul moves, which can have a number of challenges that can be overcome with this additional layer of defense. This includes ensuring that the crate meets any special requirements for weather conditions, including temperature control and humidity control.
While this extra level of protection can increase moving costs, it’s often worth the investment considering how much more expensive it would be to repair or replace damaged goods. Additionally, for items of high value, this specialized service can help ensure that they arrive at their destination intact and unharmed.
While this specialized service is especially useful for those with oversized or fragile items, it can be beneficial for a variety of situations. For example, large pieces of industrial equipment can be difficult to transport safely without the use of a customized crate. Custom crating is also an ideal solution for antiques and other valuable pieces that may need additional protection during the moving process. For this reason, it’s a great idea to book this specialized service in advance of your move, ideally several weeks ahead of time. This will give you enough time to schedule a full assessment of your items and construct a crate to suit their specific needs.
Liability Options
While a local mover may have liability insurance that covers your property in the event of damage or loss, you can also purchase additional coverage through a third party to protect your belongings in case something goes wrong during the move. It is important to choose a company that has adequate insurance and can provide proof of their coverage upon request.
The level of protection you need will depend on the type of move you are making. Strictly local movers follow state-set regulations while interstate movers must follow guidelines established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For this reason, it is critical to know which type of mover you are hiring and what their requirements are.
Whether you are moving across the street or around the country, make sure to verify that your mover has a USDOT number and is registered with the FMCSA. This will ensure they are a legitimate, licensed moving company and can provide you with the necessary information regarding safety and regulatory processes.
In addition to a USDOT number, a legitimate mover will have a full set of liability options available. For instance, they should be able to offer you basic or full value replacement protection. Basic coverage allows you to be reimbursed based on the actual value of your items up to 60 cents per pound, less three years’ depreciation. This is ideal for low-dollar items that hold a lot of sentimental value.
However, you should also note that this is not comprehensive coverage and you may be left with out-of-pocket costs if your items are damaged or lost. For this reason, most people opt for the full-value protection plan.
When it comes to evaluating your potential local mover, price is important. However, you should also consider their customer service and communication skills. A good moving company will be able to answer any questions you might have and provide you with a thorough estimate that outlines the entire cost of your move. They should be able to give you an idea of how long the move will take and what services they will provide, including packing and unpacking, cleaning-up services, and disconnection and reinstallation of appliances.
Referrals
Many local moving companies have a strong connection to their clients, as they are often well informed of the experiences and struggles that their clients faced when making the move. As such, they can provide valuable insight on how to plan the best moves for their customers. These services can include assistance with the preparation of a moving schedule and checklist, as well as the development of a cost estimate for the entire relocation.
Choosing a local moving company with an established reputation for excellence is essential to a smooth transition. Local movers are usually able to provide references from previous clients who can attest to the level of professionalism and service that they received. They may also be able to share testimonials on their website, or through customer satisfaction review websites such as Angie’s List or Yelp.
Another way to determine the quality of a local mover is to request a free, in-home estimate. This will give you an opportunity to meet with a representative and discuss your specific needs for the move. It will also allow the moving company to assess the size of the move, as well as the amount of time needed for packing and loading. This will help the moving company accurately quote a price for your move.
Local movers typically work within tight time constraints to complete their jobs, as they must adhere to strict moving deadlines in order to keep up with client demand. They are also likely to have a clear pricing structure for their services, such as an hourly rate or flat fee for the entire relocation. In some states, local moving companies are regulated by their state-level regulatory agencies. While others are required to register with the DOT and follow federal guidelines for safety and regulatory processes.
When deciding on a local moving company, it is important to ask whether they can assist with intrastate moves, as well. Intrastate moves are those that are less than 50 miles, but still in the same state. Some local movers only offer local moving services, while others are part of global van lines that offer interstate as well as domestic service. Lastly, some local moving services independently offer interstate moving services under their own brands.