There aren\’t many things in life that can bring on a panic attack like an impending move. Even if you just finished building your dream home and you\’re finally leaving your parents\’ house, the move can cause plenty of stress. Professional, experienced moving companies can help reduce problems and help things go smoothly.

There are major differences in moving companies , and depending on your particular needs will depend on what type of companies you should start contacting. Even though costs might be a factor in your decision, don\’t let a cheap price be your deciding factor. A large well known company can still cause problems and disappointments.

As you contact companies to get estimates, don\’t limit this to phone calls. If moving companies can\’t come to your home to see what they will be dealing with, don\’t use them. Some companies have their phones answered by customer service reps who have never even packed a box in their entire lives, and they are trained to answer questions from a knowledge base. If you have some unique circumstances, you may very well get a quote that can\’t be upheld at the last minute.

Also make sure you know how many people you will be paying for. Many companies send out two workers only. Unless you live in a one bedroom apartment, two men can only move a few boxes or one piece of furniture at a time. If their truck isn\’t literally at your front door, just loading the truck could take all day.

Ask to see their contract first, then read it thoroughly before signing. Pay close attention to small print. Look for insurance coverage and guarantees. Also look for things like how they charge for overtime if they are basing your estimate on an hourly rate per person. All too often any overtime is the fault of the moving companies, not yours. Don\’t allow yourself to end up in a position where you are paying hundreds of dollars extra because these guys took off for lunch, delaying the process.

While the moving companies are there doing the walk through and formulating the estimate, make sure you ask them questions about how would handle specific issues. Don\’t take anything for granted! Anyone with a few muscles can call themselves \”moving companies\”, but if they don\’t have common sense, it\’s a problem waiting to happen. Ask how they handle rain storms as they are bringing your expensive furniture in and out. What do they do with large expensive pieces of art? Are they experienced with high end electronics and plasma TVs? If they can\’t explain in detail how they handle each of the above, find another company.

Be careful of a company that demands cash only as payment. They probably aren\’t licensed, and you won\’t have any recourse if problems arise. Stick with companies that take credit cards, and only use credit cards. At least your card company will help you if a dispute arises.

Want to find out more about cross country movers, then visit Harold Jacobs\’s site on how to choose the best piano movers for your needs.