It’s getting close to moving day. Everything is packed up but you still haven’t found movers to help get you to your new home. Finding the right moving company can be a stressful process, especially if you’re moving across the country. To help ease some of the headache, use the following 4 tips for hiring moving services:

1. Know the Costs

There are dozens of moving companies to choose from. When you’ve narrowed down the list to three or four, ask for a detailed estimate of the total amount the company plans to charge. This estimate should include tax and refundable deposits.

Additional charges to look out for include blankets, bubble wrap, additional fuel charges and more. If some of these charges are optional, you can save money by purchasing your own material.

2. Insurance

Movers will often provide a variety of insurance options for you to choose from prior to signing on the dotted line. You’ll need to review each option carefully and determine which is best for your needs.

Some things to consider are:

• The value of your belongings.
• The distance in kilometers of your move.
• Whether or not the moving company offers basic insurance that’s included in the price.

If most of your items aren’t of great value and a basic policy is offered at no additional charge, there is no need to purchase additional moving protection. You may find more helpful information and useful resources at Hudson Movers.

3. Look at the Break Down of Costs

Companies often charge by how many movers will help with your move. Carefully examine your estimate to determine how many helpers are included. If you think more are needed to make the move faster, ask about the additional cost.

Remember, if you choose to move forward with only two helpers, you’ll likely end up paying more for the actual time spent moving. Get the best estimate for completion time and compare it with the number of helpers needed to maximize cost efficiency.

4. Never Pay a Large Deposit

To avoid any type of fraudulent activity, avoid paying a hefty up-front deposit. Most moving companies will only request a full payment upon completion of the move. If you do pay in advance, you’ll likely have no control over how much you pay once you’re all moved in to your new place.

If anything, the moving company might ask for a credit card number up front just to secure payment at the end. This is common practice and should not alarm you.

Saving money on moving to a new home doesn’t always mean hiring the cheapest movers possible. Weigh the pros and cons of each company, read as many reviews as possible and speak with family and friends for referrals. The company that offers the most safety and security for your belongings should be your first choice.