Finding your dream apartment in Brooklyn is exciting, but now comes the next big step: the move itself. While the hard part may seem over, it’s crucial to find a professional, dependable moving company. With hundreds of movers available, it can be easy for unreliable or fraudulent companies to appear alongside reputable ones. Here are some tips to help you identify a trustworthy moving company and make your move as smooth as possible.
Opt for Local Movers
Whether moving to or from Brooklyn, choosing a local company has its advantages. Local movers understand the intricacies of New York City traffic, parking restrictions, and even the narrow hallways and staircases common in Brooklyn buildings. They’re also familiar with providing necessary paperwork, such as certificates of insurance for landlords. Hiring locally can also save you money, as many companies charge hourly rates starting from their departure point. By choosing movers based nearby, you might save $100 or more in travel costs.
Seek Referrals
Before going online, ask friends, family, or coworkers if they have any recommendations. Friends or family who recently moved can offer valuable insights about their experience with a company. You might want to ask them:
Did the final cost align closely with the initial estimate?
Were the movers professional and courteous?
How long did the move take?
Was any item damaged, and if so, how did the company respond?
What specific services did the movers provide?
Did they arrive on time and communicate effectively?
If you can’t get personal recommendations, check reviews on Google or Yelp. Just remember that reviews can sometimes be misleading, as some companies may pay for positive feedback or have negative reviews removed.
Verify Licenses and Credentials
To ensure the safety of your belongings, choose a moving company with the necessary licenses and insurance. In the U.S., moving companies must register with the Department of Transportation (DOT), where they prove their legitimacy through documentation like proof of incorporation and insurance. After registration, companies receive a DOT number, which should be visible on their website. In New York, movers must also register with the state DOT. You can verify a company’s credentials by checking their DOT number on the DOT website or checking their profile with the Better Business Bureau for any formal complaints.
Contact Potential Companies
After narrowing your list to five or six companies, reach out to each one. Prepare a list of questions relevant to your move, especially if you need additional services like packing, storage, or moving supplies. Make sure to also cover the following points:
- Additional fees for stairs, long-distance carry, etc.
- Estimated time for the move
- References upon request
- Packing requirements (whether items must be fully boxed or if dressers can be left with clothes inside if wrapped)
- Claims process for damaged items
- Fees for cancellation or rescheduling
For unique needs like moving a piano or oversized furniture, be sure to inquire about their ability to handle those items. When speaking with a company, note their professionalism and responsiveness. Do they provide clear, confident answers? Are they courteous and transparent? If you feel rushed, ignored, or they hesitate with answers, consider crossing them off your list.
Request Estimates
When you’ve shortlisted a few companies, ask for estimates. Get quotes from at least three companies and compare them. While small price differences are normal, a much higher or lower estimate could indicate issues. Once you have the estimates, see which company aligns with your budget and requirements. If you find a slightly lower estimate from one company, you can ask if your preferred company is willing to match it. Many companies offer discounts for students, seniors, or military personnel, so don’t hesitate to inquire. While discounts are rare during peak moving season (April to September), you may find better deals during the off-season.
Work with Movers Not Shakers
If you’re ready to make your Brooklyn move, reach out to Movers Not Shakers. With years of experience moving clients throughout Brooklyn and beyond, we offer support whether you need to move a single item or an entire apartment. Contact us to discuss your moving needs and create a personalized moving plan.
