What to Look for in a Commercial Mover
An excellent commercial mover can make moving your business much more manageable. Here are some things to look for when choosing a commercial mover.
A Dedicated Point of Contact
The best commercial moving companies will provide you with a dedicated point of contact. They'll give you their email address and phone number. The contact will also communicate with you regularly.
Expertise
Consider what specific expertise you'll need. For example, will you need help installing telecom systems or computers? Or do you need a mover with experience handling delicate scientific equipment?
Choose a company with experience moving businesses similar to yours and the specific expertise you need. An experienced company will understand the specifics of your industry and can advise you on the best way to approach your move. They'll also be experienced in moving specialized equipment.
Remember that moving companies are local, long-distance, and international, so choose the right one based on your needs. Local moving companies typically make moves within 100 miles or less.
Service
Consider the services you need and whether the mover offers those services. The best commercial movers will provide packing, unpacking, disassembling, and reassembling furniture.
Reputation
Ask your industry colleagues, Chamber of Commerce, or real estate agent for recommendations of commercial moving companies they've used. Research several commercial moving companies. Check with third-party licensing companies such as the Department of Transportation and the Better Business Bureau.
Also, look at online reviews. Ensure you look at genuine reviews rather than fake ones a company may have bought. Reading multiple reviews and being skeptical of companies with almost all five-star reviews can help avoid review scams.
Interview at least three prospective companies and ask for references. Call each reference and ask specific questions about the reference's experiences with the moving company. Be wary of a company that avoids providing references.
Ensure the company you are considering has an insurance certificate that protects your property. Also, ask whether the company uses subcontractors. If it does, find out the names of the subcontractors and research their track record. The subcontractors should also have an insurance certificate.
Price
A mover should fit within your budget. However, developing a realistic budget is critical. When you first realize you're going to move your operation, create a scope of work and do some research to determine ballpark prices for each aspect of the move.
As you interview movers, ask for quotes or estimates. Ask questions about how the mover charges for its services; for example, do they charge by the hour or net cost?
Have the moving company come to your office to prepare an accurate estimate. Also, walk with the representative through your new building to avoid surprises. Inquire about what services are included in the estimate and which require an extra charge.
Commercial Storage
Does your company require short or long-term storage? Consider if the commercial moving company provides businesses with commercial storage solutions. Have they secured climate-controlled warehouses for office furniture, IT equipment, files, and records and files?
Process
Ask each prospective moving company about its process. How do they plan and facilitate corporate moves? If you hire them, what can you expect from start to finish? How long will the move take?
Experienced Movers
We are experienced movers who can help your moving process go more smoothly. Contact us for an estimate today.
