METCALF MOVING BLOG

6 Tips on Finding the Best Office Moving Company

After selecting your new location, choosing a moving company is your next most important decision when relocating your St. Paul, MN, office. The right moving company can make your move go smoothly.

Here are some tips for finding the ideal office moving company for your needs.

1. Determine Needs and Budget

Decide what services you need from a professional mover. For example, will your IT staff need help installing the equipment? Do you have specific sustainability goals that are part of your company’s values? Who will handle the packing?

Also, consider whether you are relocating employees as part of the move. If you are, consider asking whether the full-service movers have residential moving experience and will offer discounts for moving your employees.

Also, ballpark your budget and moving supplies. You won’t choose a mover based solely on the lowest price, but you still need to know your spending limits.

2. Research Before Calling for Quotes

Do your research before deciding which companies to call for pricing. For example, check how long the company has been in business, confirm through your state that it meets licensing and insurance requirements or has registered with FMCSA, and check its record with the Better Business Bureau. Also, read reviews on the Internet.

3. Ask the Right Questions

When companies come to provide estimates, ask questions. Examples of queries are:

• How many offices have you moved with similar requirements to ours?
• How do you train your movers?
• How do you check the backgrounds of your movers?
• Do you use day laborers or contract out any services?
• Can I have at least three references for the offices you have relocated?
• Will you dispose of unwanted items? What is the cost of this service?
• Are stairs or elevators an extra cost?
• Must you reserve a service elevator in advance?
• How will you communicate with me throughout the moving process?
• Will we be assigned a project manager?
• Do you plan for minimal disruption?

4. Note Your Impressions

As each company’s representative comes to do a walk-through and provide a quote, note your impressions. If the representative is forthcoming and quick to communicate clearly, the company will be, too. On the other hand, if you have to pry information out of them, the company may also be slow to communicate.

5. Require An Action Plan

Ask each mover who bids on your project to include a logistics plan. The plan should include their recommendations, such as choosing a project manager and milestone dates for your internal relocation team.

6. Understand Your Quote

When you receive a quote, understand what is behind it. Ask how the mover sets pricing. Some may price based on square footage, the time estimate, driving distance, or the types of assets they will move. They may charge a premium for moving on weekends or during peak times. If you need help understanding something, be sure to ask.

When evaluating quotes, be wary of any outliers. If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Once you decide on a mover, ensure they lock in your move date and guarantee a maximum price.

Office Moving Simplified

If you’re planning an office move, contact us. We are experienced commercial movers committed to providing excellent service at a fair price.