There are a few “first steps” to take when vetting a moving company to handle your Toronto, ON, move and our team here at ABS Movers & Storage wants you to know exactly what to look for. Most importantly, however, we want you to understand the value of obtaining a moving estimate. For some of you reading this, this may sound like common sense—but there are plenty of new-to-the-moving-thing individuals out there who could use a few pointers.
First and foremost…
Obviously, you want to ask for recommendations from people you know and trust; they’ll steer you in a good direction and have personal stories to share. Further, when you jump online to search moving companies, be sure to check out their website for testimonies as well as sites like Yelp for customer reviews.
Do NOT consider every company…
Know how to weed out the losers from the contenders. For example, a company should be willing and capable of offering you a free on-site moving estimate. If not—do not waste your time! A company which agrees to an on-site estimate is the company that will give you the most accurate assessment—which allows you to plan much more effectively. Here are 4 benefits of an on-site quote:
- Mitigating unrealistic expectations: Many do not realize just how much stuff they truly have until the move is well underway. Can you relate?
- Pricing the cost of specialty items: For example, a dining room table can become a “specialty item” if it has a glass top. A piano or a valuable antique fall under this description as well…
- Additional charges: Extra time, extra distance, extra packing material, extra-large items, extra weight, storage fees, etc.—these can add up. You want to foresee these, together, during your in-home estimate.
- Building and land layout: Being on-site gives movers relevant info about the building layout and terrain. This includes long walkways, uphill climbs, elevators, narrow hallways, etc.
Now, for the estimate…
Beyond preliminary research, one of the most vital steps you can take is to receive an estimate from a few different moving companies. Why more than one company? Because unless you have a magical gifting which tells you exactly how much a move should cost, obtaining at least three estimates will give you a baseline from which to work. Your multiple estimates should be used to gauge the approximate cost of your pending move and help you to determine which Toronto, ON moving company you are most comfortable with. Remember the following:
- The most expensive option is not necessarily the best one—or the worst. Try to find out why they are more expensive. Did they include services in the quote you don’t need?
- The cheapest option is not necessarily the worst one—or the best. Dig into their services—are they quoting you everything you require? Do they carry very weak insurance? Ask.
- The flashiest company is not always the most trust-worthy. Do your research. Trust your gut.
No one likes negative financial surprises, right? Stick to these tips and you’re in for a pleasant moving experience. We hope you choose ABS Movers & Storage for your next move!
ABS Movers & Storage | 17 Dora Ave Toronto, ON M6H 1J5 | (416) 588-1499
