Category: How To
How to choose the right realtor to list your house.
When it comes to buying or selling a home, choosing a good realtor can make all the difference when buying or selling a home. This blog post will so you how to choose the right realtor to list your house. First and foremost, a good realtor can save you time and effort by handling many of the tasks involved in the buying or selling process, such as scheduling showings, negotiating offers, and preparing documents. Additionally, they will have a thorough understanding of the local real estate market and will be able to help you get the best price for your home or secure the best deal when buying. A good realtor can also offer valuable advice and guidance throughout the process, helping you make informed decisions and navigate any challenges that may arise. Finally, they can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your interests to ensure that the transaction goes smoothly. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of choosing a good realtor and how to go about finding one.
How to choose a realtor to list your house
- Ask for referrals from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently bought or sold a home in the area. This is one of the best ways to help you choose a great realtor. People’s experience with a realtor is a great indication of what working with them will be like.
- Look for a realtor with a strong track record of successful sales in your area. To do this you can ask the realtor directly. Most realtors will be happy to provide you with information about their sales history and successes. Check online resources. Websites like Zillow and Realtor.com often have information about a realtor’s sales history and performance. Check with the local real estate board: Many local real estate boards maintain records of a realtor’s sales activity. You can often find this information on the board’s website or by contacting them directly. You can also ask for references: A top realtor should be able to provide you with a list of references from past clients who can speak to their experience working with the realtor.
- Choose a realtor who is knowledgeable about the neighborhoods and local market conditions in your area. A good realtor should be familiar with the various neighborhoods in your area and be able to provide you with information about local market conditions and trends.
- Look for a realtor who is professional, responsive, and communicates well. To do this you could meet with the realtor in person. Schedule a consultation with the realtor to get a better sense of their communication style and how well they listen to your needs. Observe how the realtor handles your initial inquiries: Pay attention to how quickly the realtor responds to your emails or phone calls, and whether they are able to answer your questions in a satisfactory manner.
- Consider working with a realtor who is affiliated with a reputable brokerage. Reputable brokerages have strict hiring standards: Real estate brokerages that have a good reputation are often selective about the agents they hire. This means that the realtors affiliated with these brokerages are likely to be highly qualified and experienced. They may also may have more negotiating power: Real estate brokerages that have a strong reputation may have more negotiating power when it comes to securing a deal on your behalf.
- Check their credentials: Look for realtors who have earned professional designations, such as the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR). These designations demonstrate a high level of experience and expertise in the field.
- Check online reviews: Look for reviews and ratings on the realtor’s website, as well as on third-party sites such as Yelp and Zillow.
- Ask for references: A top realtor should be able to provide you with a list of references from past clients who can speak to their experience working with the realtor.
- Ask about their marketing strategy: A good realtor will have a well-thought-out plan for marketing your property to potential buyers.
- Look for a realtor who is a good fit for you: It’s important to find a realtor who you feel comfortable working with and who you feel understands your needs and goals.
Follow these 10 tips and you will be well on your way to choosing the right realtor to list your house. The next step will be choosing the right mover. For help with this check out How to choose the right mover.
How to prepare for a move out
When it comes to moving out of your current place it is no surprise that there is a lot to prepare and get ready for. Knowing how to prepare for a move out will ensure that everything goes well on move day and will also help to ensure that you don’t end up going crazy due to all the stress. With this in mind we have put together a list of 11 steps that will help you to prepare for a move out. There will always be other things to do when preparing for a move but if you follow our 11 steps you will be in a good place and ready for your move out.
13 Steps on how to prepare for a move out
- Make a checklist Create a checklist of all the tasks you need to complete before the move, and cross them off as you go. This will help you stay organized and on track.
- Create a moving budget: Determine how much money you have available for the move and make a budget for all the expenses involved, including hiring a moving company, renting a truck, and packing materials.
- Hire a moving company: Consider hiring a professional moving company to help with the heavy lifting and transportation of your belongings. Get estimates from several companies and choose one that fits your budget and needs. Check out our post on How to choose the right moving company.
- Start packing early: Begin packing as soon as possible, starting with items you use less frequently. Use sturdy boxes and wrap items in bubble wrap or packing paper to protect them during the move.
- Disassemble furniture: Take apart any large furniture items that can be disassembled, such as beds and tables. This will make them easier to move and also help protect them during the move.
- Take an inventory: Make a list of all your belongings, including serial numbers and descriptions of valuable items. This can be helpful for insurance purposes in case any items are lost or damaged during the move.Label boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in at the new residence. This will make it easier to unpack and get settled in your new home
- Collect important documents: Gather important documents, such as birth certificates, passports, and insurance papers, and keep them in a safe place where you can easily access them during the move.
- Have a garage sale: Consider having a garage sale to get rid of items you no longer need or want. This can help reduce the amount of stuff you have to move and also bring in some extra money.
- Arrange for childcare: If you have children, make arrangements for childcare on the day of the move. This will allow you to focus on the task at hand and not have to worry about your children’s safety.
- Set up utilities: Arrange to have your utilities turned off at your current residence and set up at your new one.
- Change your address: Notify the post office of your change of address, and make sure to update your address with any subscriptions, banks, and other institutions.
- Make travel arrangements: If you are moving a long distance, make arrangements for transportation for yourself and any pets you may have.
- Hire a cleaner -Consider hiring a cleaning service to clean your old home when you move out. When you complete your move the last thing you want to do is to have to keep going back to your old home to clean it. Hiring a cleaning service will also help to make sure you get your deposit back from your landlord.
How to pack books for moving
Learn how to pack books for moving
What you will need to pack books properly
- Correct size moving box
- Unprinted paper or bubble wrap
- Tape
- Marker
- Packet of Silica
We know that more and more people are reading their books with kindles these days but we we also know that a lot of people still have a great book collection that they will want to have packed and transported safely when they move. Here at the Guru of Moving we will not only give you a quick guide on how to pack books for moving but also a step by step guide on how to pack books for moving. These guides will help to ensure all your books arrive in perfect condition. If you decide that you do not want to move all your books, also check out our post on where to donate books when moving.
Quick guide on packing books for moving –
- Use the right size box.
- Line the bottom of the box with paper.
- Stand books upright
- Use unprinted paper to fill in any gaps
- Close the box and tape in securely.
- Label the box.
Step by step guide on how to pack books for moving –
Use the right size box
When packing your books for moving, the boxes can get extremely heavy especially when the wrong size boxes are used. If you want to make your life easier and also keep your movers happy we recommend using a box no bigger than a standard book box which is 1.5 cubic feet and measures 17”x12 3/8”x 12 3/8”. We recommend these book boxes. As book boxes do get heavy it is important to make sure that the boxes are properly tape. If you are not sure how to do this check out the video on How to tape a moving box.
Line the bottom of your box with paper
Take 8 – 12 sheets of unprinted paper, crumple each one into a ball and use them to line the bottom of your box. Doing this will help provide a soft base for your books to help protect them but will also act as a layer of protection should you box be placed on damp ground.
Decide on your technique for packing books.
Below are the 3 recommended techniques for packing books for moving.
- Upright / Standing – This is typically the most recommended technique for packing books for moving. This is the way you would usually see books neatly arranged on bookshelves. To pack books this way face pages to the outside of the box with the spine facing inward, for the second row, repeat this but have spines touching and pages facing the other outside wall, if you have room for a few more books, separate the books with more crushed paper.
- Pack the books flat – Place your books flat along the bottom of the box. Place pages towards the wall and have the spines touching each other. When one layer has been completed, place a layer of crushed paper on top and keep repeating this until the box is full.
- Spin down – This way is a perfectly acceptable way but you will not be able to fit as many books in the box. If you are going to add another layer on top be sure to separate each layer with paper as with this method there is an increased risk of damaging the pages due to the fact that the pages are facing upwards.
Leave some space at the top of the box
We recommend not packing your boxes all the way to the top and instead leaving around 6 inches of space at the top for extra packing material. Grab some more crushed paper and use it to fill the box to the top. This will help to give an extra level of protection to your books. Lastly we recommend placing a packet of silica in each book if you do not plan on opening the box within the next few weeks. This will help to absorb any water vapor and also help to limit the growth of any mould.
Check, Tape and Label your box
The final step is to to check, tape and label your boxes. Tape the box when you are completely happy using the same technique outlined above. Lastly label each box with a sharpie, listing the contents of each box and what room you would like them to go to in your new home.
Additional tips for packing books for moving –
- Expensive books or books with sentimental value should be individually wrapped with paper before packing. They should also be separated with cardboard to ensure that the spines remain straight during transit and side-to-side friction does not damage the cover.
- Place larger or heavier books at the bottom as this will help to ensure the smaller, lighter books remain intact.
- Only pack books that you really want to keep. As books tend to be heavy and most moving companies will charge by the weight it is a great idea to only pack the books that you actually want to keep, and it will also save you money.
- Donate unwanted books. We like to donate to our local charity Children’s Book Project but or a full list of ideas of where to donate your unwanted books check out where to donate your books when moving
Where to donate food in NYC when moving
So it’s finally moving time and if you are moving out of state, abroad or into storage, chances are that you won’t be able to take all that lovely food with you. If you are wondering where to donate food in NYC we are here to help. Before you binge eat all them cookies then throw everything else out, wait!!! there is a better option. Now is the perfect time to do something good for all those people out there who are less fortunate and unfortunately are struggling to find something to eat each and every night.
Did you know that in the United States, 1 in 6 Americans, including 17 million children are at risk of hunger? As you pack up all your belongings why not separate all that food that you no longer need and instead of throwing it away why not donate it to your local food banks and charities. If you are wondering where to donate food in NYC we are here to help. In NYC there are a number of great charities and food banks who do great work. Each and every day to the charities ensure those less fortunate can have something to eat. We have put together a list that will inform you where to donate food in NYC when moving and who will put your donations to great use.
If you have other non food items that you would like to donate. Check out How to schedule a free donation pick up in NYC.
If you are still looking for moving companies in NYC check out our post on Moving Companies in NYC.
Where to donate food in NYC when moving
New York Common Pantry
New York Common Pantry reduces hunger and promotes dignity, health and self-sufficiency. They work toward the reduction of hunger and food insecurity through an array of programs that function to establish long-term independence for those they help. What’s great about this place is that you can schedule a pick up and they will come to you. They accept Shelf-Stable/Non Perishable Foods. Fresh Produce (Fruits & Vegetables) Prepared Foods. They also have a number of locations where you can drop food off to them. To find a location near you or to schedule a free pick up visit them at NY Common Pantry
Move for Hunger
Move for Hunger partners with relocation companies all across America to collect non-perishable food items. deliver it to food banks all across North America. By doing this they have created one of the nation’s largest year-round service programs. What’s great about Move for Hunger is that their movers offer to pick up the unwanted, non-perishable food items from those who are moving and deliver it to their local food banks. To find a mover in your area visit them at Find a Mover.
WestSide Campaign Against Hunger
WestSide Campaign Against Hunger is located at 263 W 86th St, New York, NY 10024. They accept donations of food, 7 am – 1 pm, Monday thru Friday.The charity asks that any food donations contain healthy, nutritional food items. They do not accept or distribute highly processed, high-salt, or high-sugar foods, including sugary cereals, most canned soups, and boxed or canned prepared foods, such as macaroni and cheese, meat stews, or beefaroni-like products. They do not accept or distribute expired or damaged foods. Please check the labels before making your donation. When you are looking for where to donate food in NYC when moving you should check them out at WestSide Campaign Against Hunger.
The Bowery Mission
The Bowery Mission is Located at 227 Bowery, the mission accepts food donations between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The Bowery Mission serves more than 1,000 meals each day to low-income and homeless New Yorkers. In 2016, the organization also handed out 44,700 bags of groceries to those in need. The mission suggests donations that are nonperishable, but it can accept fresh prepared foods so long as the packaging hasn’t been tampered with.
Hour Children Community Outreach and Food Pantry
The Riverside Church Food Pantry
The NYC Love Kitchen
The NYC Love Kitchen – located in the Inwood neighborhood of Upper Manhattan at 3816 9th Ave, New York, NY 10034. They serve people in need with freshly cooked meals, an emergency food pantry. They accept food that is in its original packaging, unopened and within our food code date/extension guidelines. For more information visit them here.
So it’s finally moving time and if you are moving out of state, abroad or into storage, chances are that you won’t be able to take all that lovely food with you. Before you binge eat all them cookies then throw everything else out, wait!!! there is a better option. Now is the perfect time to do something good for all those people out there who are less fortunate and unfortunately are struggling to find something to eat each and every night.
Did you know that in the United States, 1 in 6 Americans, including 17 million children are at risk of hunger? As you pack up all your belongings why not separate all that food that you no longer need and instead of throwing it away why not donate it to your local food banks and charities. In San Francisco there are a number of great charities and food banks who do great work. Each and every day to the charities ensure those less fortunate can have something to eat. We have put together a list of organizations in the San Francisco area that will put your donations to great use.
SF / Marin Food Bank
The Sf-Marin food bank is an amazing organization that helps people from all walks of life and from every corner of the bay area. If you have extra food to give you visit there website https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/ for a list of drop-off locations throughout San Francisco and Marin.
Move for Hunger
Move for Hunger partners with relocation companies all across America to collect non-perishable food items. deliver it to food banks all across North America. By doing this they have created one of the nation’s largest year-round service programs. What’s great about Move for Hunger is that their movers offer to pick up the unwanted, non-perishable food items from those who are moving and deliver it to their local food banks. To find a mover in your area visit them at Find a Mover.
St Anthonys
The St. Anthony Foundation is a nonprofit social service organization in San Francisco, California. They are best known for their operation of the St. Anthony Dining Room in the Tenderloin District. They serve free meals to the poor in an ordinary restaurant-like setting. The Dining Room has served as many as 2,500 plates of food a day and over thirty seven million meals since its creation.
Donations of personal or family sized portions of fresh fruit, vegetables, and canned and dried goods can be dropped off at 121 Golden Gate Avenue, Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.
Large deliveries of bulk food items can be brought directly to St. Anthony’s Dining Room at 121 Golden Gate Avenue, every day from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm.
Food They Do Accept:
- Unexpired perishable foods
- Refrigerated perishable foods (must be below 40°F)
- Frozen perishable foods (must be below 28°F)
Food They Do Not Accept:
- Vitamins and nutritional aids
- Pet food
- Baby formula
- Bulk products that are unlabeled for ingredients and allergens
- Foods that were not kept at the appropriate temperatures
- Mixed food and perishables from catered events
- Restaurant food
- Foods intended for raw consumption (sushi or seafood)
- Canned goods that are open, punctured, bulging or seriously damaged
- Home prepared, home canned or home jarred products
For more information you can always visit their website at https://www.stanthonysf.org/
Food Runners
Food Runners pick up excess perishable and prepared food from businesses such as restaurants, caterers, bakeries, event planners, corporate cafeterias, and hotels. The will then delivers it directly to neighborhood food programs.
Whether you are a business, contact Food Runners and they will pick up your donation and deliver it to a suitable feeding program in San Francisco. If you call in the morning a volunteer or a truck driver will come that same day. If you call in the afternoon, Food Runners will will try to come before the close of work. Any amount of food is welcome.
If you have food to donate from your home, you can contact Food Runners and they will tell you where you can take the food in your neighborhood. Just call them at (415) 929-1866 or visit them at http://www.foodrunners.org/
How to schedule a free donation pick up in New York
Before you move, purging any unwanted items is a great way to not only keep your moving costs lower but it can also be a great way to give back. The companies listed below will allow you to schedule a free donation pick up in New York so that you can donate clothes, furniture, shoes, toys, books and much much more.
Not only will they allow you to donate these items but they will even swing by your home and pick them up for free. Amazing right!?! And if that wasn’t enough, you will also be helping those less fortunate and providing jobs for local people in your area. All donations are 100% tax deductible.
To make it easy, we have compiled a list of companies that will allow you to schedule a free donation pick up in New York.
Goodwill
To schedule your free donation pick up from your local Goodwill, simple visit Goodwill’s free donation pick up to get started. They accept practically any donation – dishes, clothing, accessories, electronics, household goods, furniture. They even accept cars, campers, trucks, RVs, boats, etc. This non-profit organization is one of the most recognizable non-profit organizations in North America and one of the best places to ask for a free donation pick up.
Angle Street Thrift Shop
This thrift shop on 17th Street in New York City raises funds to support substance abuse, HIV/AIDS and mental health programs, as well as the Bridge2Life Camp & Charles Evans Kids Club and the Pregnant Women & Infants Program. They provide a free pickup service that covers the greater New York and Tri-State Area. You can call 212-229-0546 extension 2 to schedule a pickup. They take furniture in good condition for sale in the thrift shops.
City Opera Thrift Shop
City Opera Thrift Shop has been supporting the Opera for over 40 years. They pick up in Manhattan twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) and in the outer boroughs on a case-by-case basis. For furniture donations they ask that you send photos including a description about the item(s) and current condition with your address and best contact info and they will reach out to you.
Pickup Please –
Pickup Please offers free donation pick ups in New York. While other major charity organizations require you to schedule your donation pickup weeks in advance, and some of them have even stopped offering pickup services all together, Pickup Please can pick up your donation within 24 hours in many areas.
Your generous donations and charitable contributions of clothing, household goods, books, shoes, small appliances, electronics, and more make a big difference in the lives of America’s Veterans and their families.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is an amazing nonprofit organization that helps families build and improve places to call home. They accept cars, new and gently used appliances, furniture, building materials, household goods and much more from individuals and companies and many locations also accept items outside these categories. To schedule a pick up visit Habitat for Humanity free pick up.
Vietnam Veterans of America
VVA is a national organization that provides services and advocacy for Vietnam veterans. You can schedule a pickup for used small furniture in good condition, as well as many other household items, through the Vietnam Veterans of America. Call 800-459-VETS (8387) or schedule your pickup on their website. They provide pickup service to Queens, Kings, New York and Richmond.
Donation Town
The last name on our list is a little different than the rest. When you visit donation town you simply enter your zip code, and whether you live in the New York or anywhere in the United State their Nation wide directory will let you know what companies offer free pick ups in your area. Check them out by visiting Donation Town.
So there you have it guys, a list of great charities that will offer free donation pick up in New York. If there are certain items that these companies will not pick up and you decide that you will have to dispose of them, check out our list on
How to schedule a free donation pick up in SF
Before you move, purging any unwanted items is a great way to not only keep your moving costs lower but it can also be a great way to give back. Wondering how to schedule a free donation pick up in SF? The companies listed below will allow you to donate clothes, furniture, shoes, toys, books and much much more.
Not only will they allow you to donate these items but they will even swing by your home and pick them up for free. Amazing right!?! And if that wasn’t enough, you will also be helping those less fortunate and providing jobs for local people in your area. All donations are 100% tax deductible.
To make it easy, we have compiled a list of SF companies that will not only accept your donations , but will also pick them up for free.
If there are also items that you can’t donate and need to dump. Check out our post on the top junk removal services in SF
To schedule your free donation pick up from your local Goodwill, simple visit Goodwill’s free donation pick up to get started. As Goodwill are so busy it may take up to 7 days to schedule a pick up. Recently Goodwill has partnered with TaskRabbit. TaskRabbit are able to offer a fast pickup, available the day of your choosing, including same day! A portion of TaskRabbit’s service fee will be donated to local non-profits. Use promo code GOODWILLSF for $10 off your first donation Task.
Habitat for Humanity is an amazing nonprofit organization that helps families build and improve places to call home. They accept cars, new and gently used appliances, furniture, building materials, household goods and much more from individuals and companies and many locations also accept items outside these categories. To schedule a pick up visit Habitat for Humanity free pick up.
United Cerebral Palsy of the Golden Gate
This great charity will pick up your items on the day you want and you don’t even have to be there. They will swing by on the scheduled day and gather the donated items from the curb, plus, it’s free! Simply fill out the scheduling form below on their website. They will send a truck to your house on the day you select. As with most companies on our list, there is a list of items that they can and cannot accept. For the full list and to schedule your free pick up visit United Cerebral Palsy of the Golden Gate
What is really cool and unique about the Community Thrift Store is that when you donate your items to them you choose one of their local charity partners. When your items sell, the charity partner you choose gets paid. It’s that simple! The fact that you can choose a charity that means something to you is a concept we really like. To schedule your free pick visit Community Thrift Store Free Pick Up
The last name on our list is a little different than the rest. When you visit donation town you simply enter your zip code, and whether you live in the Bay Area or anywhere in the United State their Nation wide directory will let you know what companies offer free pick ups in your area. Check them out by visiting Donation Town.
So there you have it guys, five great websites that will help you to get your donations picked up for free in the Bay Area.
Got food to donate? Check out our blog Where to donate food when moving in SF
If you have any other recommendations or would like us to add your company to our list, please feel free to email us anytime at move@caremoremoving.com or by visiting www.caremoremoving.com and we will be happy to help.
Before you move, purging any unwanted items is a great way to not only keep your moving costs lower but it can also be a great way to give back. The companies listed below will allow you to donate clothes, furniture, shoes, toys, books and much much more.
Not only will they allow you to donate these items but they will even swing by your home and pick them up for free. Amazing right!?! And if that wasn’t enough, you will also be helping those less fortunate and providing jobs for local people in your area. All donations are 100% tax deductible.
To make it easy, we have compiled a list of Bay Area companies that will not only accept your donations , but will also pick them up for free.
To schedule your free donation pick up from your local Goodwill, simple visit Goodwill’s free donation pick up to get started. As Goodwill are so busy it may take up to 7 days to schedule a pick up. Recently Goodwill has partnered with TaskRabbit. TaskRabbit are able to offer a fast pickup, available the day of your choosing, including same day! A portion of TaskRabbit’s service fee will be donated to local non-profits. Use promo code GOODWILLSF for $10 off your first donation Task.
Habitat for Humanity is an amazing nonprofit organization that helps families build and improve places to call home. They accept cars, new and gently used appliances, furniture, building materials, household goods and much more from individuals and companies and many locations also accept items outside these categories. To schedule a pick up visit Habitat for Humanity free pick up.
United Cerebral Palsy of the Golden Gate
This great charity will pick up your items on the day you want and you don’t even have to be there. They will swing by on the scheduled day and gather the donated items from the curb, plus, it’s free! Simply fill out the scheduling form below on their website. They will send a truck to your house on the day you select. As with most companies on our list, there is a list of items that they can and cannot accept. For the full list and to schedule your free pick up visit United Cerebral Palsy of the Golden Gate
What is really cool and unique about the Community Thrift Store is that when you donate your items to them you choose one of their local charity partners. When your items sell, the charity partner you choose gets paid. It’s that simple! The fact that you can choose a charity that means something to you is a concept we really like. To schedule your free pick visit Community Thrift Store Free Pick Up
The last name on our list is a little different than the rest. When you visit donation town you simply enter your zip code, and whether you live in the Bay Area or anywhere in the United State their Nation wide directory will let you know what companies offer free pick ups in your area. Check them out by visiting Donation Town.
So there you have it guys, five great websites that will help you to get your donations picked up for free in the Bay Area.
Got food to donate? Check out our blog Where to donate food when moving in SF
If you have any other recommendations or would like us to add your company to our list, please feel free to email us anytime at move@caremoremoving.com or by visiting www.caremoremoving.com and we will be happy to help.
How to load a tape gun
Listen it’s ok we have all been there, struggling and wondering how to load a tape gun so you can get them all important boxes taped. The good news is it is super easy when you know how. Below is a video showing you exactly how to load a tape gun video as well as a step by step guide on how to do it.
- First, grab your roll of tape, make sure that the end of the tape is on the left with the sticky side facing down.
- Next grab your roll of tape and push it fully onto the large roller
- Position the end of tape so that it ready to go under the other roller
- Grab the tape gun with your right hand and with your left hand pull the lever down and use your right index finger to hold it in place.
- Take the end of your tape and pull it underneath the roller and up towards the blades. Let go of the lever and use the blades to cut the tape.
And there you have it, you are now ready to tape your boxes. Check out our how to video on it below.
When it comes to having a successful and stress free move, choosing the right moving company is the number one way to make sure everything goes as planned. Below is our guides and tips on how to choose the right moving company for your move.
Get referrals
This is our personal favorite way to choose movers. Ask friends, co-workers or even your realtor. The reason we like this option is because these people will have had first hand experience with the companies they are recommending from beginning to end. If they are saying great thing about a company after they have used them they are worth listening to. One tip is to ask the person who referred you if they remember the names of the actual crew who moved them, that way you can personally request the same crew when you call
Find and research companies on Yelp
This is a great way to not only find a list of potential companies but also research what previous customers have to say about them at the same time. When putting your list together we recommending choosing companies that have at least 30+ reviews. This ensures that the company has been around for at least a few years and that the majority of their reviews should all be real.
Make sure they are licensed and insured
The easiest way to do this is simple by calling the companies on your list and asking them to email you their proof of license and insurance, if they are a legitimate company they will have no issue doing this.
If the company is just a local company the best way to check is by ringing you local PUC or by checking on their website. All local companies are required to have their insurance information registered with the PUC.
Another way to check the company you are thinking of hiring is by going to FMCSA Website. There you can pull up information as: company type, fleet size, number of trucks and trailers. You can also extract the moving company insurance information if you need to contact their insurance company.
Get a written estimate
Get a written estimate from several movers and compare them. The estimate should be based on an actual in-person inspection of your household goods. It is important to get an in person estimate as in most states a moving company is not required by law to stick to a estimate given over the phone. If however you receive an in person estimate they are required by law to deliver your goods for no more than 10% above the price of a nonbinding estimate. This is known as the 110 percent rule.
Check with the BBB
Checking with the Better Business Bureau is a great way to research potential moving companies as it will allow you to check if there has been any complaints made against that company. Stick with moving companies that are BBB accredited or at least have a good rating. If the moving company isn’t listed with the BBB, consider looking for one that is, but also keep in mind that it does cost quite a bit of money to be listed with the BBB so some newer or smaller companies may be good but just can’t afford to be listed.
Verify the Moving Companies address
Always ask the company for a business card or look up their information online. It is important to make sure that all the information listed on business cards, websites, licensing websites etc all matches, if not it can be a red flag. Be sure the company has a local address and answers the phone with its full business name — not just “movers” or something equally generic.