It’s estimated that the average American will move 11.4 times in their lifetime. For some of us it can be significantly higher. I don’t know but about you but that’s a lot of boxes. We all tend to do they same thing after every move and that’s either vow we will never move again or vow we will hire professionals movers next time. I have promised myself both in the past. Even as I write this I’m getting flashbacks off me sobbing on the floor amid of sea of corrugated boxes, but enough about me.
Hopefully we’ve all learned our lesson, and if our wallets will allow, have decided to hire professional movers to do the work this time around. Having worked in the moving industry for a 3rd of my professional career I can say these top my list of things we should always know before we hire professional movers in Chicago.
- Are they licensed? Each state has its’ particular rules on this but in Illinois all movers must be licensed by the Illinois Commerce Commission. Each is issued a motor carrier number that they must display on vehicles they use. Just displaying the number is one thing but I recommend going the extra step and contacting the commission to ensure their certification is in good standing. As Illinois citizens there are particular laws that govern the moving industry to ensure the citizens of Illinois are protected from predatory movers and to ensure we are protected should any issues arise (such as damages) with your move.
- Are they insured? In Illinois movers need to carry general liability as well as workers comp insurance. The company should be able to forward you their certificate of insurance upon request. Should there be property damage as a result of your move or if a mover is accidentally injured on your property, making sure they are insured will offer you piece of mind.
- How do they charge? The biggest sign your movers may not be licensed or insured is if they are charging you a flat rate. Movers in Illinois are not permitted to charge flat rates. We can either charge by the hour or what is referred to as a weight mileage move it you are going longer distances (special rules apply but your mover should advise you as to which applies upon learning your move from and to addresses). Movers in Illinois are required to publish their individual tariffs (rates) with the ICC. We are required by law to adhere to those tariffs. This is meant to ensure we are charging all customers fairly and are not making special exceptions for some over others. You can always request information from the ICC if you feel your movers may not be charging you appropriately.
While there are many more questions that should be asked these are the very basics to ensure you are hiring a properly licensed and insured moving professionals in Chicago. No movers should ever give you the runaround on these. If they do, buyers beware.