When Hiring Movers, Consider The Contract

There’s an old rule in business: what is not in writing was never said.

Although some agreements may need just a handshake, others that involve a multitude of variables require a contract so that all parties understand what is expected of them. This is particularly true when you hire professional movers.

You’re obviously the “who” but we also need to know exactly “what,” “where” and “when” in order to transport your items to your new place. Within those general categories, there can be many details, and finding out about them on moving day is counterproductive. Think ahead.

The first thing to do is find a reputable mover. You can check online with the Better Business Bureau or the Canadian Association of Movers, and of course, find out who friends and family members have used. Select a company that has a tried-and-true track record. Then ask questions and remember that the movers should be asking you a lot of questions as well to determine exactly what the move will entail.

When we meet customers to arrange their move, we need to know about everything they expect to take so we can prepare as accurate an estimate as possible. In many ways, estimating is a science. Computers help, but the results are only as good as the information we input. Telling us on moving day that you forgot you want to take the shed in the backyard can hold things up for hours. It will also add to your costs.

And speaking of costs, we need to know well ahead of time if you want us to provide the service of packing. Deciding this two days before the move likely won’t work. In addition, if we have quoted only on moving and not on packing, a new contract will have to be drawn up with a higher price. If you do the packing yourself, read the contract as to whether or how much your items are covered, should damages occur.

We also have to know whether you have anything other than Point  to Point B in mind for moving day. If you forget to tell us that your dining room set has to be dropped off somewhere else first, it’s likely the meter running in a taxicab. You will pay more for unexpected side trips. Plus, unless we know in advance, we may pack the dining set in an awkward place for unloading partway to your destination. Again, this will cost you time and money – two things that are precious commodities on moving day.

It is our responsibility as professional movers to ask the right questions, but until we develop ESP we need to rely on you to explain what you need from us. A contract protects you as much as the movers, but only if you read it, understand it and abide by it.

At TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Canada, we follow The Grandma Rule: we treat everyone the way we would want our grandmothers to be treated – with dignity, courtesy, respect, honesty and trust. We all want everything to go smoothly on moving day – and when we communicate and work together, it does!