HOW TO PICK A MOVING COMPANY WHEN PCSING: 5 MISTAKES TO AVOID

By Buddy Blouin

Once you receive your orders to move, it’s a mad dash to get everything in line. You may have a few days or even a few weeks but either way, service doesn’t stop. When it’s time to move, your family has a lot to consider, including how to pick a mover to get you where you need to be on time. Below, we’re looking at how to pick a moving company for a smooth transition to your new home base and the mistakes to avoid.

How to Pick a Moving Company When PCSing

If you’re PCSing, you’ll have a lot on your plate, including choosing movers to get you where you need to be. Here are five tips on how to pick a moving company and common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

1. Check Reviews and Licensing

The digital age has brought many modern conveniences to our fingertips, including the ability to review and compare goods and services quickly and effectively.

You’ll need to take reviews with a grain of salt as not only are people more likely to leave negative reviews than positive ones, but everyone’s experience and needs will also vary.

Still, reviews are a great place to start. If you notice a lot of good reviews with the same positive statements, such as “takes extra care with breakables,” then you’ll likely find that those movers are good for that trait.

On the other hand, if you see plenty of reviews leaving negative remarks on professionalism, you may want to look elsewhere.

Using websites like Angi, Yelp, and Trustpilot are great places to get first-hand reviews on movers. You can also look online to see whether or not they are highly rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Furthermore, you’ll need to conduct due diligence about each moving company and their licensing and insurance.

Movers will need to be licensed with the states they are traveling in, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), and maintain enough insurance to meet the requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Finally, if your movers are certified by the American Moving & Storage Association (ASMA), you can also know that you’re in good hands with a company that adheres to high industry standards.

The biggest mistake is simply going with the first moving company or the cheapest place you can find. Be sure whoever gets the job is capable of moving your family correctly.

2. Compare Multiple Moving Companies

Once you’ve narrowed down reputable, quality candidates, comparing multiple companies is your next step.

You’ll want to make sure that who you hire is capable of meeting your needs and doing so at the lowest possible price.

Getting multiple quotes is how to select a moving company and avoid overpaying—just make sure they provide the services you need for your move.

When you’re comparing quotes, be sure to also ask about specific needs and hidden fees. If you need certain services, you may have to pay extra, which includes storage costs, fees for long-carry, paying for packing materials, etc.

3. Ask About Military-Specific Services

Both two and three sort of go together because again, you need to ask about certain services you might need which are more specialized.

One of the biggest mistakes military families can make when choosing a mover is to not inquire about some of the services you might need.

For example, if you are moving firearms, there are special methods of doing so, exclusion lists to consider, and state laws you’ll need to abide by.

When determining how to select a mover, be sure to consider companies that have experience with the PCS process and are prepared to responsibly assist with the challenges it might bring.

4. Understand Your PCS Benefits

If you’re serving on active duty, there are entitlements available to your family that can help take some of the financial burden of moving off of your shoulders.

There are military options that may even include the ability to pick movers you want rather than just using those contracted by the government.

By using the PCS entitlements calculator, you can get an accurate estimate of the benefits available to your family. Furthermore, speaking with your chain of command will also help you, or visiting your base’s financial center.

Failing to understand the resources available to you when PCSing is a huge missed opportunity. Inquire and take advantage of the available help.

5. Take Extra Precautions When Moving Outside the Continental United States (OCONUS)

The PCS cycle looks a little different if you’re moving to Alaska, Hawaii, or a military base overseas, and having a moving company equipped for these challenges is going to be essential.

It’s not only the distance but there are several things you’ll need to be prepared for when moving overseas, including having a passport and various laws involving customs.

Always use movers that specialize in PCSing internationally if you’re moving OCONUS.

We all make mistakes but limiting them is key for a smooth transition. Limiting disruptions and surprises by staying informed and comparing your options is a surefire way of how to pick a moving company you won’t regret.

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