Moving and Logistical companies coordinate various services to make the move go smoothly. These can include real estate agents, movers, storage facilities, caregiving services, and estate liquidators.
Services
Movers arrange for distribution of assets to the appropriate destination points
They will help through most phases of the move: planning and preparation, packing, coordination and supervision on the moving day, and getting settled in the new residence.
Some movers specialize in designing and organizing the new home to accommodate the physical needs of the elder population.
Often a broker or agent will be acting on behalf of a moving company. It is vital that you realize your rights when dealing with a broker. A broker does not work for the actual company and does not own trucks. They can give you an estimate, but the actual moving company may or may not agree to that estimate
Specialization
Movers are required to give written estimates, but they are not required to give binding estimates. Getting a binding estimate is between you and the moving company.
When you contact a moving company, this is the first thing that you should receive.
While some senior moving and logistical services only coordinate other services for you, some are hands on and have specific areas of expertise.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration recommends that each consumer seeking the services of a moving company request at least three different estimates. When doing so, you should not disclose information regarding competitors to different companies.
Preparation
- What is the exact starting address? What is the destination address?
- When will the move occur?
- Does your senior family member have any physical issues that will make the move more difficult?
- What is the emotional state of the senior who is moving? Do you expect the move to be especially traumatic for any reason?
- What are you looking for in determining a moving company?
Evaluation
- Verify the company is in your local area and they have the equipment to complete the job from start to finish.
- Ask for an in-home visual estimate in writing.
- What other companies or experts do you work with? What are their qualifications?
- Do you specialize in any particular aspect of moving? Possibilities include setting up senior-friendly new homes or dealing with especially hard emotional circumstances.
- How familiar are you in working with specific key physical disabilities in the elder population?
- Can you talk me through how you orchestrate a typical senior move? What do you do to make the move go more smoothly?
- What is your advice on how to reduce stress on my senior loved one?
- Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?