‘The sale contract we just signed needs us out quicker than we had planned for’: We are scrambling to move 400 miles. Should we hire a middleman or get quotes ourselves?

Hi Moving Diaries

So, we’re making a move within the state, around 400 miles away. We’ve been gradually relocating our stuff, but the sale contract we just signed for our current house means we gotta be outta there faster than we thought. We’ll probably need movers to wrap things up, mostly to pack and wrap the big stuff like furniture. We’re looking at a small move, like for a couple of bedrooms’ worth of stuff.

What’s the best way to handle this? Should we hire a middle man to get quotes or bids for us, or should we reach out to multiple moving companies and get independent quotes ourselves?

Appreciate any guidance from the Moving Diaries for this!

Sincerely,

Rushing to Move

Response from THE MOVING DIARIES:

Hello There,

Certainly! Moving can indeed be a daunting task, especially when unforeseen circumstances arise that expedite your timeline. Congratulations on the sale of your home, even if it means a bit of a rush to finalize your move. Given your situation, here’s a practical approach:

Firstly, considering the urgency, contacting multiple moving companies directly for independent quotes might be more efficient. This allows you to quickly assess their availability, pricing, and specific services they offer, particularly since you only need assistance with packing and moving larger furniture pieces.

Start by making a list of reputable moving companies in your area. Check their reviews and ratings to ensure reliability. When you contact them, be specific about your needs: mention that you’ve already moved a significant portion of your belongings and outline the large items and furniture that remain.

Request detailed quotes from each company, and inquire about any additional costs that might arise. Some companies might offer an in-home estimate for a more accurate quote, while others might provide a virtual assessment. Compare not only the price but also the level of service and professionalism they offer.

Alternatively, using a middleman to bid out the job might simplify the process but can sometimes introduce additional fees. Middlemen or brokerage firms can be beneficial as they have established networks and can often expedite the process of finding available movers. However, be cautious and make sure that any middleman you engage with has a good reputation and provides transparent pricing.

Time is of the essence, so once you gather a few quotes, make your decision promptly. Confirm the availability of the chosen mover and ensure all terms are clearly outlined in a contract to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Finally, ensure you have a list of all items being moved and check them off as they arrive at your new location. This will help you stay organized and ensure nothing gets lost in transit.

All the best with your upcoming move. Remember, a bit of preparation and prompt action now will make everything smoother in the long run.

Warm regards,

THE MOVING DIARIES