You've signed the lease on your new apartment in Lafayette, Louisiana, and now it's time to plan your big move.  One of the first decisions you will need to make is whether you will move your belongings yourself or hire a professional.  Do you have friends to help, will you need to rent a truck or can you manage the move in a few loads in the back of your truck?  If you choose to enlist a moving service, you should know there are a variety of moving services available.  Services range from helping you move your heavy pieces, to boxing up and moving everything you own.
 
If you have decided hiring movers is your best option, consider the following tips.
 
1. READ REVIEWS, TESTIMONIALS & GET REFERRALS.

The best advice is to ask people in your circle for a referral.  Friends who have made a move in the last year or so have first-hand experience and are the best source of referrals.  Ask if they recommend that particular moving company or service?  Either way, good or bad, their response will help you narrow down your options.  After you have a list, consult online review resources such as Yelp, Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, or Google to check client reviews and testimonials.
 
2. RESEARCH YOUR OPTIONS.

After you’ve read a sufficient number of reviews, check the potential moving companies’ websites.  Check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints or if they have recently had a business change of name. Check several movers websites to better understand the going rates for the different services you are considering for your move.  You will need to schedule an estimate to get the exact cost of your move, but it will be helpful in deciding if you want or can afford this service before you call the company.
 
3. DECIDE WHO’S PACKING.

Predetermine whether you will be packing your belongings or if you need the moving service you hire to do it. Whether you do it yourself or enlist the moving company, be prepared to purchase or pay for packing supplies.  These small items can add up, so be sure to ask for details when getting a quote. 
 
4. DETERMINE THE SERVICES YOU NEED.

What kind of help do you need?  Are you seeking a few extra hands to assist you while you move your belongings,  or would you prefer a white-glove full-service move, where the company comes in, packs your belongings, transports them, and unloads and places them for you? Keep in mind that the more detailed the service, the more costly it will be.
 
5. OBTAIN ESTIMATES FROM SEVERAL MOVING COMPANIES.

Reach out to your top moving service choices to determine a baseline on charges.  A few companies might be willing to negotiate if you mention a competitor quoted a competitive rate for the same move.
 
6. KNOW WHAT TO ASK WHEN HIRING A MOVING COMPANY.

Make a list of questions you want to ask each potential moving company. Below are a few sample questions you might consider asking:

• How do you charge, by the hour or flat rate?
• Are you a long-distance mover, or do you handle mostly local moves?
• What are your service levels?
• Do you insure the move, or do I need to insure it?
• How many employees do you enlist for a move like mine?
• Are your crew members certified or obtain special training?
• Do you subcontract the moves?
• Whare examples of additional fees I might incur? (E.g. heavy items, 2nd-floor moves, or fuel for the moving truck)

 
7. EVALUATE YOUR ESTIMATES.

When you’re comparing quotes, don't only look at the bottom dollar.  Consider which company offers the best value for the services provided. Also, look at which company inspired the most trust. It's worth a few extra dollars if you feel you can trust one more than the other.
 
8. BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING RED FLAGS.

The following situations may give you pause when hiring a company:
The require payment in full before performing any services.
Online reviews are primarily negative.
They are not insured and licensed.
 
9. BE PREPARED ON MOVING DAY.

If you are renting a truck and hiring movers to help move heavy items, ensure your moving truck is ready to go before the movers arrive on moving day. If you are packing the items yourself, the same consideration applies. You really don’t want to scramble, packing last-minute boxes while the movers are emptying your apartment.  Moving will be stressful enough— be prepared.
 
Hiring movers to help with your move to your new apartments in Lafayette, Louisiana can provide much-needed relief during the moving process.  A reputable moving company can ensure you stay focused and provide efficiency on your big day.

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