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How to Find the Best Contra Costa County CA Moving Companies and Self-Storage Sites

How to Find the Best Contra Costa County CA Moving Companies and Self-Storage Sites 

A move can bring excitement about the new life and home ahead, but at the same time, the process can be daunting and overwhelming. Packing, boxes, bags, what to keep, what to throw away, cleaning, dealing with your pets, letting go of memories . . . moving is a big deal and one that people often approach with dread.

But a good moving company can help ease the transition, keeping your stress levels manageable and handling a large part of the logistics problems that moving brings, from packing and storing your things to driving them across town or across the country. In the Contra Costa County area, there are several of these high-end movers and storage companies, but it's important to choose carefully. That's why The Prime Buyer's Report offers the following tips on finding good movers and storage companies to accommodate your relocation.

Contra Costa County Movers and Storage Companies Perform Numerous Services
Whether you're moving around the corner or overseas, using a moving company or storage company to haul your belongings is much easier than doing it yourself. Good movers and moving companies can give you a preliminary consultation for free and personalize a moving management system to move entire offices, corporations, residences, trade shows, and exhibits. Offered moving distances range anywhere from local, to interstate to international.

If you suddenly find yourself under severe time constraints, many local movers and packers can accommodate last minute moves. If you have particularly fragile items, such as pianos, art, electronics, or antiques, some movers are capable of taking the necessary precautions to move them safely. If you're planning to relocate, nearly any Contra Costa County-based moving companies can pack and ship your belongings for you.

Quite a few moving companies also offer the option of temporary storage or self-storage. If you're unable to find a replacement dwelling immediately after the sale of your property or the termination of your lease, you can take advantage of these storage services. Local movers and storage facilities can safely stow household goods, commercial goods, and furniture for short-term storage or long-term storage. Some moving companies can store particularly valuable items in climate-controlled vaults that are monitored 24 hours a day by security personnel. Some Contra Costa County moving and storage companies can store important records, for which they have a bar-coded system of management. And some moving and storage companies offer the amazingly convenient option of mobile modular storage or portable storage. If you use this service, professionally trained movers will provide a warehouse crate to store your belongings, haul the crate to a storage facility, and actually deliver it to your door when you require it.

So if you're worried about adding unnecessary hassle to your already stressful move, don't be. Using good moving and storage companies in Contra Costa County will save time and energy and, perhaps more importantly, your back. And to help you choose among the best movers in Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, San Ramon and Richmond, The Prime Buyer's Report has interviewed and reported on good movers in Contra Costa County.

Contra Costa County Movers and Storage Companies Supply Needed Packing Materials
One of the perks of hiring someone to conduct your move is the freedom from packing. Many Contra Costa County movers are also packers, so they supply all needed moving supplies and storage materials and secure your belongings for you. Instead of squishing overfilled, aging boxes in the bed of a truck, good household movers will wrap pack and seal your valuables, pad them with bubble wrap, foam, or packing paper, and safely load them into sanitized, temperature regulated moving trucks.

They guard frames and art with edge protectors, neatly pack clothes into wardrobe boxes, and stow mirrors and other flat glass in mirror packs. Movers can keep your mattress clean with mattress covers and prevent in-transit damage with moving blankets and padding. In some instances you can use the provided packing materials to box up your belongings yourself, but professional movers are required to take great care. It's usually worth your while to take advantage of all of the moving services they offer.

Cheap Moving Companies in Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, San Ramon and Richmond Aren't Usually the Best Movers in Contra Costa County
Many consumers have been disappointed by poor service from the cheapest movers, and sometimes those movers never even show up. Some movers who quoted unrealistically cheap moving prices then demanded thousands of dollars extra before they would unload the customer's property from the trucks.

Patti Anderson, president of Anderson Bros. Movers, stresses that an in-home quote is more accurate than a quote over the phone. "A lot of customers think it is more convenient to get quotes for moving prices over the phone, but verbal quotes aren't binding. A reputable company will always offer a free written estimate," Patti told us. "A contract or estimate can only be binding and legal if an estimator has seen and accounted for every item being moved. Good movers have to see everything in order to write up an estimate, and you should want that written contract for moving services because it's binding. Written estimates prevent dishonest companies from giving you a deceptive quote over the phone or even a poorly written contract that purposely leaves out a lot of information, and then charging you a lot extra on the day of your move. It is very important for the consumer to review written estimates, line for line, to make certain they are comparing information accurately."

John Mendoza, operations manager at Thrifty Moving and Storage, says to watch out for another scam with movers in Contra Costa County. "Some moving companies in Contra Costa County come out to your house and give you a written estimate, but the estimator will purposely only list 125 items when you really have 150 items to move, so your moving estimate will look lower. But then when the driver gets there, he counts all 150 items and tells you the original estimate is wrong, so it's null and void. He writes up a new contract and you're stuck paying a lot of additional charges instead of the low cost you were first quoted. That's why you need to go over written estimates and make sure everything is written down."

A "pirate mover" who isn't properly licensed and insured as required by law, might get away with undercutting the good movers on price, but it's too dangerous to hire them. Roy Maxson, owner of A Mover and Maxson Moving Services, explains about "pirate movers" in Contra Costa County, "These are guys who call themselves movers for a low price and ask to be paid all in cash" Roy told us. "We hear stories every week about these kind of movers who didn't show up and left customers out of luck, or worse."

It's common for cheap moving companies in Contra Costa County to hire day laborers or unskilled employees as movers. While their rates for moving might seem low at first, it could actually cost you more money when inexperienced movers damage your belongings.

Cheap moving companies online aren't usually the bargain movers they claim to be. Instead, those movers aren't really movers at all. Ed Melton of the Chipman Corporation explains that when you call an online moving company, you might really be talking to a moving company broker. "Chances are, most of these internet movers are actually just working at a desk in another state and don't even have a moving or storage facility at all," he explains. "A lot of movers online are actually just moving brokers who take your order and then broker the moving job out to actual moving companies in Contra Costa County that you never had the chance to speak with. There are a lot of problems with those and when there are, you often have no recourse because it was the broker you hired, not the actual movers."

There is a Great Selection of Moving and Storage Companies in Contra Costa County
Whenever there is such a bevy of moving companies that service a local area, it's fair to guess that there is a variety of quality across the moving and storage industry. So that you don't waste time searching at the lower end of the scale, The Prime Buyer's Report has ranked the best movers and storage companies in the area above.

The Prime Buyer's Report lists these movers and storage companies in Contra Costa County: Seven Bridges Moving, Johnson & Daly Moving & Storage, Corovan Moving & Storage, Golden Gate Moving & Storage, Chipman Moving & Storage, Confianca Moving & Storage, Byron Moving & Storage, Orbit Moving & Storage, Inc., Diamond Mine Mini Storage, Magic Moving & Storage. Other self-storage centers and moving companies that might still serve Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, San Ramon and Richmond include: A Storage City, Marin Moving & Storage, Thrifty Moving. Didn't find what you wanted with the TOP 10 Moving Companies & Self Storage Facilities in Contra Costa County? Then click here to see additional companies in this category.

Learn About Moving and Storage Companies in Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, San Ramon and Richmond
Moving companies have to be licensed and certified to operate in the State of California. It's crucial that you make sure the company of your choice is current with these credentials. You can find these important details at related association Web sites. Additionally, you should find out whatever you can about movers you might employ. Look for information in magazines, Internet forums and any other source that discusses local business reputations, regulations or customer feedback on moving companies and storage facilities in Contra Costa County. Get started on your research with the links listed in the article, "Key Resources for Moving and Storage Companies in Contra Costa County."

Determining the Best Moving Companies in Contra Costa County 

Step 1: Describe Your Plan to the Movers in Contra Costa County
When you call different moving companies, explain the details of your move. Do you need international moving services or local moving services? Report the type and size of the dwelling and mention any items that will need special care. Also, give the departing and destination addresses and the dates you wish to be moved. Also, decide if you require full service movers or moving companies who will both pack and move your belongings.

If you plan on storing any items, specify the amount of items to be stored and the projected length of time you will need to store them. Decide if you need special kinds of storage, such as self-storage, storage containers, climate controlled storage, storage units, mini storage or portable storage. From this information, moving company representatives and movers can calculate an estimate, which may or may not be binding. Binding estimates generally expire after 60 days (on average), so ask the moving companies in Contra Costa County about their terms ahead of time.

Step 2: Ask the Movers and Storage Companies Questions & Take Notes
You'll need to know some things about moving companies or storage facilities before you use their services. The sample questions below address several items of concern.

• How long have the moving companies and storage facilities been in business?

• Are the movers or storage companies' estimates binding? If so, how long are they guaranteed?

• What items are not allowed to be transported by the movers in Contra Costa County?

• What is your available recourse and who do you contact if household goods are damaged or lost during the moving process or time in storage?

• Will the movers reassemble any items that were taken apart for the move?

• How do the moving companies and storage facilities price their moving and storage services?

• What are the movers' and storage companies' billing procedures?

• How much advance notice should you give the moving companies if you need to ship something?

• Do the movers in Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, San Ramon and Richmond offer shipment tracking?

• How long will it take the moving company to pack and move your belongings?

• Do you the movers offer temporary or long term storage?

• Do the storage companies offer self storage, mini storage, portable storage or moving storage space?

• How will the movers and storage facilities protect your household goods from damage and dirt?

• What are the moving companies' DOT and CAL-T certificate numbers? (See "Top 10 Moving and Storage Tips of All Time" to verify certifications.)

• Do the movers carry workers' compensation and liability insurance?

Step 3: Making a Preliminary Decision on Movers and Storage Facilities
Compare the results of your interviews with moving companies and storage centers in Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, San Ramon and Richmond. The candidates who can best accommodate you in terms of moving and storage safety and special considerations should stand out.

Step 4: Final Research on Moving and Storage Companies
After you've selected a moving and storage company, verify the licensing information they gave you in the interview. You can check the CAL-T license number by calling the California Public Utilities Commission or visiting their Web site. Department of Transportation registration can be checked on the DOT Web site.

Step 5: Making the Final Decision on the Best Local Movers and Storage Facilities
Once you've determined all proper certifications to be in place, commit to your estimate and sign a contract. Clear up any lingering doubts or concerns. Then speak with a representative from the moving company or storage facility and arrange for a written and signed pricing, timing, quality and warranty agreement.

Tips About Moving and Storage in Contra Costa County 

Take Time Choosing Your Moving and Storage Provider.
Locally, you have access to a multitude of moving companies that range from two movers and a box van to major interstate movers or international movers with climate-controlled van lines. It's a good idea to consult several moving companies so you can plan accordingly. And the more companies you consider, the more likely you are to find the optimal service for your specific moving requirements.

Consult Several Moving Companies.
Call several moving companies to get price ranges and available services. There may be a charge for moving or relocation quotes, so ask about this before you accept services from moving companies in Contra Costa County. Be prepared to answer questions regarding the volume of your belongings, start and destination addresses, and whether or not you need to store anything. If you have particularly fragile or large items, inquire as to whether or not the movers can safely transport it. If so, ask if it would incur additional moving fees.

Can Everything Be Moved or Put into Storage?
Make sure everything you plan to pack is allowed to be transported. A moving company can usually provide a list of prohibited items. Some items are not allowed by certain storage companies or storage units. Ask if there are any materials or substances you cannot store in the mini storage facilties or storage space.

Rid Yourself of Possessions You Don't Want Before the Movers Arrive.
Don't automatically pack up everything you own. After a certain amount of time, we all accrue junk we will never use again, but it still gathers dust in our homes. Consider holding a garage sale or making a donation to a local thrift store before moving to get rid of some of this dead weight. Moving costs are generally calculated by the weight of the load, so don't waste money shipping items you would never miss anyway.

Likewise, it doesn't pay to store items you don't need. Before packing and moving your belongings into a storage unit or storage facility, weed out items you don't want. Remember, there is very imited space in self storage containers, mini storage units, portable storage or storage rental containers and you don't want to pay to store more furnitire or boxes than you need.

Think Beyond the Move.
Advance planning and organization will reduce the stress of moving. Keep all documents related to your move in one easily accessible location. Develop a folder, notebook or even a daily planner to keep track of important phone numbers and documents. Referrals for new services, maps of your new town and contact information for old friends are just a few more things that you may want to stash in your organizer.

Do Your Homework Before You Sign an Agreement with a Moving Company.
When you're seriously considering a moving company, check all necessary credentials before you sign. Verify the certificate of authority (DOT number) through the Department of Transportation and CAL-T certification through the California Public Utilities Commission. For twenty dollars you can obtain company safety profiles at www.safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CSP_Order.asp.

Don't Get Hung Up on Prices From Moving Companies or Storage Facilities.
Don't let cost be your sole motivator. The cheapest moving companies compensate employees poorly, use inferior means of loading and transport and often have bad track records. To ensure your belongings arrive in the same state they left, carefully screen moving companies in Contra Costa County before you consider price. Good storage facilities will guard your belongings whether they are in self-storage, mini storage or portable storage units. Price often reflects the quality of the storage facilities, which may include video surveilance or monitored storage spaces.

Choose Certified Contra Costa County Companies for Moving or Storage.
Moving companies and storage facilities with better track records and happier customers are often awarded quality endorsements, such as Diamond Certification and Better Business Bureau membership. If you seek out the moving companies and storage services that can claim such high regard, your move will go much more smoothly.

Inspect the Shipment Upon Arrival.
As soon as your belongings reach your destination, check for any damage that may have occurred in transit. It's imperative that you do this as soon as possible. Legal culpability dwindles with time. If you find damage, refer to your contract for liability and compensation information.

Know Your Rights in Regard to Moving Companies and Storage Units.
If you arrive at an impasse with your moving company or storage facility, know that you are protected by state and federal law. These laws vary by region, so learn about specific protection in the Contra Costa County area at the California Department of Consumer Affairs Web site.

Research on Moving Companies and Storage Facilities in Contra Costa County 

Associations & Licensing For Movers and Storage Facilities in Contra Costa County
AMSA American Moving and Storage Association (http://www.moving.org/)
BBB Better Business Bureau (http://www.bbb.com/)
CMSA California Moving and Storage Association (http://www.thecmsa.org/)
CPUC California Public Utilities Commission (http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/), 1-800-877-8867
DCA California Department of Consumer Affairs (www.dca.ca.gov)
Diamond Certified (http://www.diamondcertified.org/)
DOT Department of Transportation (http://www.dot.gov/)
FMSCA Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/)
HGFAA Household Goods Forwarders Association of America (http://www.hhgfaa.org/)
IOMA International Office Moving Institute (http://www.officemoves.com/)
NAMA North American Movers Association (http://www.namovers.com/)
SAFER Safety and Electronics Record System (http://www.safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/)

Contra Costa County Storage Facilities and Movers Media & Web Publications
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