by Fatima Calderon
Your moving date is coming up in a few months, and you are asking for prices and quotes. You may get "bombarded" by moving companies and individuals trying to win your business.
One way to create a shortlist of potential movers, and to spot potential red flags, is to ask these movers these questions, designed to show their credentials.
If a mover doesn't comply, doesn't know, or says the issue is not really important, simply ditch them, even if their price seems very competitive, especially if the price is much, much cheaper than the others, just move on - you have plenty of others to pick from.
Questions to ask:
- Are you licensed? This is the first question, to make sure they are qualified. Make sure they prove it by providing their DOT # and FMC # - and oh, check them both online to make sure their permits are clean.
- Is Customs Clearance included in your price? Both export and import clearances should be included.
- Are port charges included? At least the origin port charges should be included. Destination port charges cannot always be included in the price, for various reasons (for another discussion), but if the destination charges are not included, they should *at least* give you an estimate of how much to expect, so that you can budget your out-of-pocket expenses.
- What about insurance? Minimum liability should be included, and if that's not enough protection for your valuables (it often isn't enough), they should offer full risk insurance too and explain the additional cost.
- Can you give me a written quote? Make sure the quote lists all the inclusions and exclusions (see the other questions above), and that you understand the total price, terms, and conditions.
You can download or print the infographic below, to help you remember what to ask a potential mover.
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