You will want to get an estimate from several moving companies. You previously learned the questions they will ask you; here are some questions you should be sure and get answers to.
Are your crews insured? If it is a company you are not familiar with, inquire to see a copy of their declarations page for the business insurance policy. Get their damages policy in writing, so that if something breaks you understand the claim process.
Is the hourly rate per man or for the crew? What about additional men? Most companies will quote an hourly rate for a two or three-man crew. You might feel three is unnecessary, but it is worth the expense since that third or even fourth crewmember can make things go a whole lot faster when sharp turns or cumbersome and heavy things are a factor. You can have a couple of people disassembling things and crating or packing while others do the heavy lifting; these are guys who work together every day and they are a team, and they get the job done much quicker. It is not uncommon to have a quote for a two-man crew, and with a charge for an extra man, if needed. If your house has four or five bedrooms or you have a big garage, you could require more than one truck anyway, so think about getting the extra men to get it done in one day.
Do you charge for travel time? Is the crew off the clock for lunches and breaks? Companies vary with the travel charges. Usually, once they get to your house, the clock is started. Many times they will stop at a drive through and eat lunch in route to the new home, so there isn't really any down time.
What if I only want packing help? That's fine, most companies will provide you an a la carte pricing list--you can buy everything from shrink wrap only to a six-man crew that will box your garden tools if you tell them to. The rates for packing generally include supplies--tape, bubble wrap, newsprint paper (the unprinted and clean kind), packing peanuts, and a wide range of box sizes. Expect an hourly rate for a packing crew as a basic estimate. Just be sure and read through the verbiage on the estimate so that you know specifically what is and isn’t included.
What if I just want moving help? Some folks like to pack together as they purge and sort, and so hiring people for that is just not constructive. Moving companies are glad to load, drive, and unload on moving day, just be sure you are aware of their policies for what they can and can't load. For example, anything hazardous or toxic can't go on the trucks. Nail polish remover is on the prohibited list, as are most cleaning supplies, household chemicals, and paint. Firearms might not be permitted on moving trucks, so you will have to open any safes so that the movers are aware what is inside of them.
Movers Cost More Than Your Extended Family, but They Are Insured
Professional movers are not cheap, but your poker buddies or family will not pay a claim if something is broken in the move. And, they are much more likely to hurt their backs or knees if they don't know the right way to lift heavy objects.
