Always research Dallas movers before making your decision.
The first step in hiring any mover is to call a few first to get pricing. Most movers offer free, no-obligation quotes on residential moves, commercial moves, storage, piano moves, packing and more.
In the meantime, you’ll likely be doing your initial research online, checking out websites and comparing services. But your first consideration when narrowing down movers will likely be price. Some movers list generic prices on their website, but most will want you to call them. An accurate quote really can’t be given unless you speak to someone over the phone, but preferably in person at your home. Only once they know what you’re moving, how much stuff you have, and what specialty services you need, can they provide a quote.
Get a Written Estimate
An across-the-board quote online or over the phone can’t be trusted, and you will probably be surprised later at the final bill. Stock quotes are never the actual price you end up paying in the end, so you’ll have to do a little more digging for better accuracy.
That’s where written estimates come in. Get at least three from three different movers before making a decision. Meanwhile, ask your friends and family for referrals, and look up reviews of reputable movers in your area. Once you’re armed with a list of people to call, pick up the phone and start asking questions.
You will want to make appointments for them to visit your home and give you a detailed estimate in writing. If it’s not in writing, it didn’t happen. Now that you have some quotes that you can count on, you can make a more informed decision on which company to go with. There are things you can do to go beyond the estimate, though. Price isn’t everything.
Look at Reputation and Certifications
Most movers are above-board, but you will always find some “bad eggs” out there if you don’t do your research. The mover you choose should not only have reasonable rates but they should have a strong reputation in the area as well.
Check the mover’s website to find out if they belong to organizations like the American Moving & Storage Association, Southwest Movers Association, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Check their certifications, which could include Elite Service from HomeAdvisor and Angie’s List Super Service Award. Olde World Movers, for example, meets all of the above requirements.
Next, head to Yelp and check their review rating there too. While excellent reviews are great, anything too perfect is a red flag. It’s more important to see how the mover responds to negative reviews. If they take the high road and offer to make things right, it’s a good sign.
Schedule In-Person Appointments
It’s tempting to use online estimating tools for moving service rates, but you shouldn’t rely on them entirely. Do not accept a quote from any mover until they have come to your home and viewed the goods you plan to move. An on-site estimate allows them to more realistically assess all the items you have, and whether or not there are extra costs involved. Things like steep staircases, narrow hallways, and confining elevators can all raise the price.
The fragile nature of your items can also increase cost. That’s because it takes more effort and care to wrap and transport antiques and artwork than it does a room full of clothing and simple pieces of furniture. Extra services you may need such as packing and storage will also add to the final price tag.
Keep Your Finances in Mind
After you have met with the movers in person, they will provide you with a written estimate. But even with this written quote, the actual charges could always change come moving day if you decide on add-ons. Review your estimate with the mover beforehand so you understand all items before signing on the dotted line.
On a tight budget? You may be able to do some things to lower the price, such as handling your own packing. Keep in mind that charges are based on weight and distance or quantity of movers, along with the amount of hours the whole move takes.
Contact Olde World Movers
If you are planning a move in the DFW metro area, call us today in Fort Worth at 817-618-1557, Euless at 817-374-4316 or Frisco at 972-665-6910. Or fill out our Free Estimate form for a quick reply. You can also email us at info@oldeworldmovers.com.
