Selecting whom to move with is really a challenge thanks to the large numbers of moving companies in business. Where on earth do you start? Well, first things first. Take your time selecting one. The less of a rush you are in, the more time you will have to properly select a good mover from the list of moving companies you’ve found in the phone book.

Ask your friends about their experiences with moving companies. For instance ask if they were professional, on time, careful with their belongings, have enough people to do the job etc. Your friends won’t steer you wrong in relating their experiences with moving companies.

Before you call moving companies, try to get a good idea of the size, distance and timing of your move. Say for example you have a lot of heavy items in your home – a grand piano, weight bench or items like that – you will know they will cost you more to move.

Tell the moving companies you are considering for your move how many miles you are moving and which state you are in and are moving to. Why? Because some moving companies only serve certain states.

Make sure to tell them the time of year you are planning your move, as there are peak times of the year when moving companies are really busy and they will also charge you more for your move during these periods of time.

And one other thing you need to ask about, hidden costs. Companies might not always mention this to you and you may not think to ask, but often there are hidden costs for “extras”. Extras meaning moving extra heavy furniture (piano, safe), a disassembly or reassembly charge, or a long walk from the truck to the new house. These things will make a difference to the cost of your move. So, best to make sure any company you talk to knows the scoop up front so you get an idea of budget.

Ask any company you contact for quotes about a moving services contract and above all else do not sign anything until you have read everything – especially the fine print. Your contract should include all the usual things like the items to be moved, costs and charges, delivery time, delivery address, phone numbers, insurance coverage and a total move figure.

Spend some time either online or on the phone calling for quotes, and get at least two or three before you make a final decision. Here’s another handy tip: a free onsite estimate is strongly recommended before signing on the dotted line with any mover.