If you are going to be moving in the near future, you will most likely be hiring a moving service to handle the transportation of your belongings. If you are concerned about cost, there are several steps to take before you hire a moving company to make sure you are getting the best deal available. Here are some tips to use when you start the hunt for a moving company.

Ask For An In-House Estimate

After you have collected names of potential moving companies that seem reputable, call three or four of them to come to your home to give you an estimate. Show them everything that you intend on moving including items in the basement, garage and attic so that they cannot tell you there are extra items that you did not inform them about when you got the estimate. Alert the company about any stairways, large items that will have difficulties fitting through doors, and items in your yard.

Find out from each moving company if they will provide you with a binding estimate so you have a cap on the limit you will need to pay. Some moving companies will charge you for this, but many will give you one for free if they wish to retain you for the job. 

Compile The Information

Ask each moving company about their history moving, their credentials, and their address information. Make sure that the person who gives you the estimate can vouch that the same moving company will be the one moving your items and that they are not going to contract out the job to another company. Each interstate moving company needs to give you a copy of the rights and responsibilities that the Federal government has in place regarding moving. It is the law to provide you with this information. If they do not, then do not hire this company.

Make A Decision

If you decide to interview the moving companies a second time, bring along a folder containing all the quotes you have received. Sift through the information while you talk to the moving companies so they are aware that you have been doing research on the pricing and policies of several other companies. This may help them give you the best rate available if they really want to retain you as a customer. Do not be afraid to ask for a lower rate. Some moving companies will work with you on pricing if you let them know that you may go with another company because of pricing issues.

The sooner you start contacting companies like Bekins Van Lines Inc, the more time you'll have to get the best rate.