You’re preparing for a move in Chicago and need to hire a local moving company to help ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible. But how do you choose the right local mover?

Unfortunately, some local moving companies can rely on misleading pricing, unreliable crews and even uninsured operations to cut corners and cheat customers. Such uncertainty will hardly put your mind at ease so you will want to avoid these dishonest moving companies.

Here are five questions you should ask your local moving company before signing a moving contract:

Are you accredited?

Before setting a moving date, you should make sure your movers are licensed and insured. Knowing that the company you’ve hired is up to the task is critical. Hiring local movers who are licensed and insured protects against anything that might go wrong on the big day, as well as liability coverage for any damages.

What is the true cost?

You never want to be surprised, learning your bill has doubled–or worse–halfway through a move due to unforeseen fees. Taking the time to double-check the agreed-upon price makes for a worry-free moving day. Get that price in writing on a signed, dated contract. Be wary of any mover who won’t commit to hard figures.

How much packing should I do in advance?

If you are doing the packing yourself, you must be ready for the moving crew to start loading the truck once they arrive. In addition to having your boxes packed, be sure to put away heavy items from storage drawers, desks, dressers and cabinets. This streamlines the process and minimizes the risk of damage. Remember to ask your movers what items they can’t move (e.g., plants, nail polish, cleaning supplies, hazardous materials), so you can plan accordingly. Ask about custom crating services for specialty items such as oversized televisions, antiques, pianos and artwork.

Is a parking permit required?

If you’re moving from an apartment, avoid the headache of locating a spot for the truck on moving day. Ask your local moving company early on about how it handles parking and loading. Your movers can provide information on how they typically handle parking, as well as who to contact if a permit is required.

What if I want to postpone or cancel?

Unforeseen situations can come up. If you need to postpone or even cancel your move, you don’t want to get stuck with a bill. Get your local moving company’s cancellation policy in writing. Document your conversations with the company in regards to how a moving cancellation might be processed. Record the deadline for a cancellation or postponement. This way, there will be no surprises, even if something comes up. 

If your moving company can answer these five questions to your satisfaction, you should be safe to sign the moving contract. Mighty Moving is a trusted local moving company in Chicagoland. Our professional movers can answer these questions and more. Give us a call 855-699-8999 or request a free moving quote!