Hiring Commercial Movers: A Checklist

Some of us are “list people.” Whether it’s a task, chore or something we don’t want to forget, we have lists for everything. Then there are those of us who refuse to use lists and can track easily in their heads instead.

However, most are somewhere in the middle. We don’t use lists for everything, but they’re especially important for large or complex processes, like relocating commercial businesses.

What factors should you consider when it comes to hiring a mover for your commercial relocation? Here’s a checklist for you:

1. Research and Prioritize

There are so many commercial moving options these days, it can make your head spin (this is especially true if your business is located in Dallas-Fort Worth, with its variety of resources.) If you’re planning a move soon, do your research, then limit your list to no more than five, but not less than three, realistic movers to take a closer look at later. 

2. Assess Your Needs

Will you need loading or unloading help? What about packing or unpacking? Do you have any specialized items or tricky routes to navigate? These are all important questions to ask whether you plan on doing the move yourself or not. You need to figure out what you’ll need from a commercial mover before they can give you an accurate estimate. Or, ask for package options.

3. Verify Insurance and License

Another must is to make sure the commercial mover you’re hiring is licensed to operate in the state, as well as insured to protect your belongings in the event of an accident. Certain permits are required to transport specific goods across state lines, so make sure you know what’s legal and what isn’t. Finally, the mover’s insurance may dictate how much your company provides. 

4. Ask About Equipment

Commercial businesses require special equipment more often than residences. Why? Because these companies usually deal with bigger pieces of furniture, inventory and equipment than houses. So, make sure that the mover actually has the proper equipment you need to move important business assets like crating, heavy-duty machinery and more.

5. Check Reviews/References

Before you ask for quotes, see if the mover has any reviews you can read, or ask for testimonials. If anything, they’ll give you more questions to ask and may shed light on an area of the move where you need to pay special attention.

6. Compare Quotes

Don’t just accept the cheapest or first quote you receive. Take your time, get quotes from the three to five options mentioned above and think about it before committing. You might need to decide quickly if you have a short timeline or the mover’s calendar is booking up, but try to at least compare your options.

7. Review the Contract

Once you pick a mover and quote you like, review the contract thoroughly to ensure there are no miscommunications and that you and your commercial mover are on the same page.

8. Complete the Move and Offer Feedback

Finally, as a business owner, you need the value of a good review. If the commercial mover you choose meets your expectations, leave a review or give them feedback on what to improve for the next customer. This is especially helpful for newer moving companies that are still figuring out the process and where to make improvements.

This is just the start of a long list of items needed to consider for commercial moves. If you’re a business owner and considering hiring commercial movers, contact IMS Relocation today for a no-obligation quote!