Moving companies handle your belongings, transport them to and from a new home or office, and provide storage services. Some also offer additional services, such as helping you sell or donate your items. To choose a reputable mover, take the time to research their background and find out what their clients say about them on review sites.

The best movers aren’t just good at packing and hauling your stuff — they also have the customer service skills to make sure it gets there on time and in one piece. A company with a good reputation for customer service will be happy to answer your questions and help you plan your moving process.

Before you get a quote, take a full inventory of your household items and anything in storage. Having a complete list of what you need to pack and what needs to be boxed up will give your movers an accurate estimate of how much time it will take to load and unload your home.

Use a moving calculator to get an idea of what your move will cost. You should get estimates from three different movers to compare prices.

Look for a moving company that offers a number of perks, such as free storage or real-time GPS tracking. These can save you money and ensure that your things aren’t left on the back of a truck in a hot garage while you wait for them to be delivered.

If you’re planning a cross-country or international move, consider using a company with experience in these types of relocations. Most movers will have a team of professionals dedicated to these sorts of moves, and they may be willing to negotiate better rates with carriers who specialize in international transport.

Aside from packing and transporting your goods, a good moving company will be transparent about their insurance claims process. If something is damaged or missing, they’ll be willing to work with you to file a claim and provide reimbursement, replacement or repair.

Check out reviews from previous clients on the Internet or ask friends and family for their feedback. Some movers may choose to hide negative feedback from the public, so it’s important to read up on their reputation before you sign a contract with them.

You can also check the Better Business Bureau’s records to see if any complaints have been filed against them. In addition, you can ask your building superintendent if any of his or her tenants have used the same company and what their experiences were like.

Most moving companies blaine mn have online customer reviews, and they often post them on their websites and social media pages. It’s a good idea to read as many of these as you can, because they’re a great indicator of how well a company operates.

Another way to determine which moving company is right for you is to consider their mission or values. Some moving companies have a specific purpose in mind, such as supporting veterans or the local community. Others support music or artists.