Choosing A Ft. Lauderdale Mover
Not all Ft. Lauderdale moving companies are created equal. Make sure you choose reputable movers with these tips.

How To Choose A Ft. Lauderdale Mover

We have been directly involved in the South Florida moving industry for over thirty years and we have seen nearly every scam and shady practice in the book. In 2012, the Better Business Bureau received over 7,700 complaints about movers in the United States, a sure sign that there are a lot of bad apples in the 'mover' barrel. So how do you find a Florida moving company that you can trust, and still feel safe in your decision? The following recommendations will help you to make an informed decision when choosing a Ft. Lauderdale moving company.

Ask The Right Questions

When researching a potential company to handle your moving and storage needs, find out the following information:

• Is the company registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services?
• How long has the company been in business?
• Does the company offer extra services, such as packing, unpacking and storage?
• What type of protection does the company offer against loss or damage (full replacement cost, depreciated value, or the basic 60¢ per pound valuation carriers are required to provide)?
• Does the mover have a good reputation for settling claims?
• Does the company offer arbitration for claim disputes?
• Does the company have a good record of meeting its delivery schedules?
• Can the company provide proof of worker's compensation coverage, general and legal liability coverage?

Know Your Rights

Prior to providing you with any moving services, your mover must supply an estimate and contract, in writing. The estimate and contract must be signed by both parties and include the following:

• Name, telephone number, physical address and state registration number of the mover.
• Date the contract or estimate was prepared and proposed date of the actual move.
• Appropriate pick-up and delivery address, name and telephone numbers of the shipper.
• Name, telephone number and physical address where the goods will be held, if necessary.
• Itemized breakdown, description and total of all cost and services provided.
• Acceptable forms of payment available.

Understand The Charges

Intrastate movers are required to provide an estimate and a contract or service order for each move. Before signing this document, determine that the dates for packing, loading and delivery are part of the contract and provided to you in writing. Understand what the price is based upon. Some factors that might affect the cost of your move are:

• Appliance Servicing
• Cubic Footage
• Hourly Rates
• Stair/Elevator Charge
• Number of Items
• Packing/Unpacking
• Long Carry Charges

Before You Sign The Contract

• Ascertain that all services you requested and require are on the estimate and contract.
• Provide your delivery address and all phone numbers where you can be contacted at origin, en route and at your destination.
• Check your homeowners insurance policy before moving to see if you are covered for damage or loss during a move by a professional moving company. If not, the insurance company may provide a rider to your policy at an additional fee. You may also be able to arrange with the mover for full depreciated or full replacement valuation.