Among the many questions that arise when moving, choosing the right professional is a key step. Understanding this highly competitive market, especially with new offers flooding into the internet, is difficult. Certain guarantees will allow you to make a more confident choice.
Guarantees to take into account
First of all, every mover must be listed in the Road Freight Transport Register (RTM) and the Trade and Companies Register (RCS). This registration guarantees the legal existence of the company as well as the professional and financial capabilities necessary to practice the profession of mover. The list of movers and storage companies certified by this standard is available on their website ( pro-contact.afnor.org ). Finally, before you decide, do not hesitate to ask people around you who have recently moved if they have any advice or addresses to share with you. Word of mouth should not be neglected in this rare choice to be made.
The technical visit: a key step not to be missed
Making the right choice also involves comparing offers . Once you have chosen three or four companies that seem reliable to you, the quote they send you can make all the difference. Be wary of movers who do not carry out a preliminary visit to your home to be emptied. Online platforms and sites, in particular, do not carry out this visit, which is not legally required. Because, in the case of a quote made remotely, you would be responsible for an incorrect estimate of the volume to be loaded. The technical visit allows you to correctly assess the volume to be transported, and therefore the logistics to be implemented (number of trucks, boxes to be provided, use of a freight elevator, etc.), but also the difficulties to be faced (stairs, access, parking, furniture to be dismantled, etc.). It is also an opportunity to discuss with the mover any points that you have questions about, such as the different formulas offered, and your new home. Showing him photos of the latter will help him assess the aspects to be taken into account at the unloading location. The estimate will be based on all of these elements. Regulated (article 1 of the decree of April 27, 2010), it must contain a certain amount of information (company references, customer contact details, estimated volume of furniture, date, payment terms, etc.). Be vigilant and do not sign this document before having received all the quotes from the companies you have selected. Since prices are free in this profession, the differences can be significant. You should be wary of offers that are too tempting as well as those that seem exorbitant: both can mask illegal practices (undeclared work in the case of low prices). You will then sign and return the chosen quote.
Offers to avoid
Beware of dishonest practices. Certain points should attract your attention: a company that is too recently created (check on www.societe.com ), very attractive advertisements on personal connection sites, or a professional who only has a mobile number. The CSD warns against illegal offers, whether they come from companies that do not respect their obligations or from individuals who are paid without declaring their remuneration, who may be present on dedicated online collaborative economy platforms. If they risk a lot, so do you. On the one hand, you will not be covered by the mover’s insurance in the event of damage.
About the Author
