Let’s face it – moving can give you a hard time, especially if you are doing it for the first time. Come spring, people usually start making their big relocation plans. As it’s also a beginning of a busy and chaotic moving season, hiring insured movers NYC may require in-depth and exhausting research.
Sure you will research multiple moving companies, but how can you actually tell which one is the right match? We all know that there are no such things as a completely stress-free relocation. As a matter of fact, a number of things can go wrong due to various circumstances. And what better way to have a smooth move than to treat yourself to affordable, quality moving services.
The very first thing you need to know is whether your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance will cover your belongings while in transit. Whether you are moving on your own or hiring movers, you should hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Since moving is not the occasion when you will take chances, a fully insured moving company can give you peace of mind throughout the move. The following guide will help you learn how to find the best insured movers NYC.
How to spot dishonest movers
If you have no previous moving experience, researching moving companies could be a nightmare. And a lot of fraudulent movers lurking out there, don’t seem to make the situation any easier. As it turns out, now it’s easier than ever to become a victim of rogue movers, especially in large, urban areas. If you are moving to NYC, chances are that you will come across some of them. So, unless you do your research properly, you are running a risk of being scammed by a group of dishonest people. Even if you haven’t moved before, you should be familiar with the most common warning signs of rogue movers:
Extremely low pricing
Too-good-to-be-true estimates are one of the most deceiving tricks they are using to entice people. In most cases, those suspicious quotes usually lead to additional charges and other inconveniences. Some movers will hold your items hostage until you pay the requested amount or just run away with your valuables. So, always request several different quotes to be able to compare them. If one of them is extremely low compared to others, it’s your red flag. We’re not talking about affordable movers NYC. We’re actually talking about those unrealistic quotes that seem way too good to be true. Yes, some movers will have better rates but they’ll still have to pay their crew, gas, equipment, etc. and they’ll have to cover those costs.
Large upfront cash deposit
No licensed mover will request a huge amount of money in advance, especially not cash. You’ll have to agree to an estimate of your choice and sign a contract with your mover and you’ll arrange for the payment – you must have different payment options. So if someone is asking for a large amount of cash in advance, you’ll be better off and searching for another reliable and licensed mover NYC.
Verbal agreement and quote
Never accept an offer that’s not supported by a written contract. It must include all the details of your move and must be signed by you and your mover. Verbal quotes or over-the-phone quotes are not safe! We’re not referring to video moving estimates that you can choose instead of physical inspection of your home. They can make your life much easier. The verbal agreement and quote actually refer to an offer that’s not supported by appropriate paperwork but it’s strictly verbal instead.
No insurance or license
This is pretty much a straightforward point. If movers are not licensed or insured you can’t expect them to insure your goods properly. Always go for a registered and insured moving company and don’t risk getting involved with scammers or unprofessional movers.
These are only a few indicators of unreliable companies but you should also pay attention to negative moving reviews. Also, all-encompassing moving insurance, rude and unprofessional behavior, etc. Considering all possible hiccups with moving companies, setting aside some extra cash for quality moving services is well worth it. Finding the company with reasonable pricing and picking the kind of moving insurance that suits your pocket is certainly a way to go.
What do I get from hiring insured movers NYC?
If you’ve decided to spare yourself and your friends the hassle of heavy lifting and to go for professional movers, you’ve made a good choice. Assuming that you’ve taken your friends’ advice and read moving reviews, you will end up with reputable movers. Having ensured reliable assistance by your side, you can relax a bit knowing that your items are in good hands. And more importantly, should anything go wrong on moving day, insured movers NYC will ensure adequate compensation. Here’s what you can expect from them.
Types of moving insurance
All movers should offer two specific kinds of insurance. Some of them offer basic coverage while others allow you to get full coverage for your items. When you’re looking for the best insurance option you must take this into account – the overall value of your possessions will affect the decision together with your budget. These are two insurance options you can choose from:
Basic coverage
This type of insurance is based on the weight of the shipment. In case of damage or loss, your movers’ basic liability would be $0.60 per pound which hardly makes sense when moving items with both monetary and sentimental value. If you are moving antiques, collectibles, or paintings you may want to involve expert fine art movers NYC. Don’t shy away from hiring insured movers NYC whose ultimate goal is customers’ satisfaction, even if that means paying more money. Movers are required to provide this coverage to you but it’s better to skip this option when you have to move valuable possessions.
Full-value insurance
The second option to consider would be full value protection or full replacement value protection. It’s extensive insurance coverage that comes at a premium price. Yes, it will cost more money initially but you’ll have peace of mind and you won’t have to worry about enormous expenses in case anything gets damaged. Opting for this solution means that your moving company is responsible for paying for either the current market value, replacement with a similar item, or repair of the item. If there are certain limitations of your movers’ liability, make sure to get all the details in advance.
Moving insurance procedures
There are rules and procedures that may vary from one moving company to another. Always ask for a copy of the insurance policy. Some movers won’t provide any kind of insurance for the items that you have packed yourself, others will give you specific packing guidelines.
Take an inventory of all your items and inspect the condition of your boxes together with the movers. Also, keep handy your list of items of extraordinary value like paintings, jewelry, antiques, electronic devices, etc. You should know that under full replacement protection, moving companies have the right to limit their liability for extremely expensive items.
If your local or long-distance movers NYC have caused some damage to your belongings, you will have to prove that the movers were responsible for their transport. Photos of the pre-move condition could also support your statement. If you cannot resolve the matter with your movers peacefully, consider filing an official complaint and keep photos as proof of the previous condition. You’ll usually have about three months to file a claim but it’s best if you do so as soon as possible.
Which moving insurance option is right for me?
Having listed everything you own, you will get a clear idea of the approximate value of your items. If you are the proud owner of some unique artwork or designer furniture, you should consider getting full value protection. But, you should know that it won’t automatically cover items of extraordinary value.
If you are moving on a tight budget, released value protection may seem like a reasonable option. Your decision will be based both on your budget and how much you value your belongings. Having decided to go with fully insured movers NYC, the chances of being scammed will be minimized. Once your move is over, share your experience with other people facing the same dilemma – which moving company to hire. Dumbo Moving and Storage may be a perfect choice. Let’s connect to chat about your upcoming relocation and find the best type of insurance for it. We’re more than happy to customize a plan for you and provide free moving quotes.
