Tip1: Before you even approach a moving company, make sure that you have a full list of items that you need to shift. You should not have any confusion at your end. You should have a clear picture of what you plan to shift to new location and what you need to sell off here itself. This will help you provide a clear idea of the items to be shifted when you speak to the moving company. Moreover, you should decide well in advance whether you want the moving company to pack your stuff or you will take up the job on your own. Since most of the moving companies charge extra for packing, you can negotiate accordingly at the very initial stages of the discussion with the mover.



Tip2: Once you have decided everything, call or email the moving companies you feel are fine and ask for the moving quotes. After you compare these moving quotes, decide upon a mover you think has a good reputation and can do the job in your budget. Ask the moving company to send someone to do a survey of your possessions and prepare a written estimate for you. Clarify various points with the mover as to what is the type of billing they are going for i.e. binding or non binding, time for which the same estimate is valid, how much time they will take to shift your stuff etc. It is a big mistake to accept the estimate verbally or may be over the phone.

Tip3: Give a clear idea to the moving company about the problems they may encounter while shifting your stuff. For example, if your present location or new location does not have a parking place for the truck or trailer, you should tell the moving company well in advance. In such cases, the moving companies need to employ smaller vans to shift your stuff to the nearest parking arena. They may charge extra for doing this. If your new location is on the first floor, and there is no elevator, the movers may add on extra labor charges in your final bill. So make sure that the moving company is made aware of these facts in the initial stages of negotiations and preparations of moving estimates.

Tip4: Before you give the contract of shifting your stuff to the moving company, clarify about the insurance that the company is liable to pay in case your stuff gets stolen or broken. Also find out if the moving company offers a dispute settlement program.

Tip5: Negotiate about the terms of payment well in advance. Be clear about the amount of payment that needs to be made in advance. Never agree for full advance payment. Ask for discounts and free services if any. Most of the moving companies offer freebees to attract consumers. It is a good idea to take advantage of it.

Just remember that picking a moving company is never easy and try useing tips provided to help you pick a mover with ease as well help you to keep your expenditure less.