Relocating can be stressful – especially if it’s your first time taking on a major move. Whether you’re moving into an on-campus apartment at the University of Tennessee or have just closed on a new home, it’s important to make the proper preparations before you load up a truck. Today, we’ll give you our top tips about how to hire movers.
Determine Which Services You Need to Hire Movers For
Before you contact any moving companies in Knoxville, take some time to reflect about what’s to come. Will you handle packing all of your belongings, for example, or would you like the movers to take care of this part of the process? Do you want to load and drive a truck yourself for a full DIY experience, or would you rather work with the professionals?
Here are some questions to ask yourself before moving.
- Are you comfortable with driving a moving truck or van?
- Do you have time to pack all of your own belongings?
- Are you moving over a long distance?
- Would you feel confident in disassembling and reassembling your own furniture?
- Do you need help with delicate, heavy, or valuable belongings?
If the questions above make you feel hesitant about handling everything on your own, then professional movers are the right choice for your needs.
How to Hire Movers
When you’re moving to Knoxville, there are many moving companies ready to assist you. However, not all of them offer the same scope of services (or prices). Read this section for an inside scoop about how to hire movers the right way.
Ask Friends and Family for References
The quickest way to know whether a company will treat you right is to speak with friends and family members. If you know someone who has recently relocated, take the time to ask about their experience. Were they pleased with their moving company? If not, have they heard any good recommendations from people in their network? This can be a good starting point for determining which movers to avoid (and which to hire).
Verify Their Credentials
Moving companies in Tennessee have to meet a certain level of legitimacy in order to operate. Check the company’s credentials before agreeing to hire movers. The U.S. Department of Transportation website is a great way to see what your mover is licensed to do. While you’re there, you can view other pieces of data like records from the National Consumer Complaint Database (NCCDB). While it’s unlikely that every company will have a spotless record, these government profiles can allow you to make an informed decision about who to trust with your move.
Get a Thorough Estimate
So you’ve chosen your movers – hooray! The next step is to make sure they are within your price range. Any reputable moving company will want to assess your move before they price it. For example, Fox Moving and Storage Knoxville will send an estimator to conduct an inventory of your belongings before the move. They will make a note of any large pieces of furniture, fitness equipment, or specialty items (like pianos) that need to be considered. A legitimate inspector will leave no stone unturned; expect them to check places like your attic, basement, garage, or other storage areas for the most accurate picture of your move.
Be Flexible on Your Moving Date
Most moves happen on the weekends during the summer months. This time is known as the busy season to movers nationwide. To avoid limited availability while bypassing increased costs, we recommend flexibility when it comes to your moving date. If you’re able to move on a weekday, for example, or if you can avoid setting the date for the first of the month, you’ll probably be able to save a lot of time and money.
Plan Well
Finally, make arrangements to ensure that the big day goes off without a hitch. Be sure that you are there to answer questions and provide access to the home. You may also take the time to convey specific instructions. To have a smooth move, you should:
- Secure children or pets in a safe, quiet location
- Clearly label your boxes with the room they should go to (consider color-coding!)
- Declutter unnecessary items before moving day
- Put all of your important documents in one place
- Have a plan for easily forgotten items, like food in the fridge, toiletries in bathroom cabinets, house plants, and gardening equipment
- Pack heavy objects in small boxes – don’t overload big boxes with heavy items!
- Measure your current furniture to make sure it will fit in your new space
- Explain important details, like parking and service elevator access, to your moving team
Hire a Top Knoxville Moving Company
Fox Moving and Storage Knoxville offers high quality, all-in-one moving services in Knoxville, East Tennessee, and beyond. Whether you’re moving to Knox County or are traveling across the country, we’re ready to help. Contact us today for your free estimate.