What is a moving brokerage?

What is a moving brokerage? A moving brokerage is an agency that helps people move. It will help you find the best movers, storage facilities, truck rentals, or any other related services for your upcoming relocation. There are many different types of moving companies to choose from. Some offer full-service options (packing/unpacking), while others specialize in commercial moves. And, while some movers will assist you with transporting your pets, others only help people who need to ship vehicles.

 

The types of moving companies known as moving brokers act as an intermediary between the client and the carrier, usually receiving a commission on either or both ends for their work. The term brokerage is a business that represents either the buyer or seller in a transaction and negotiates the agreement’s terms. The moving broker does not own any equipment or do any labor. He helps coordinate the move and acts as an agent for the client and trucking company.

 

As with all movers, you can expect to pay a broker a fee. Whether you use the movers recommended by the broker or hire someone else, this is true. The final price of your move will depend on many factors, such as how long it takes to load and unload your belongings if you want any packing services or not, and if the moving company levies any additional fees (like fuel surcharges).

 

A moving broker will typically offer several moving quotes based on the information given by the person who wants to move. The broker then negotiates with various movers specializing in your type of move and presents you with their best offer. The broker then negotiates with various moving companies specializing in your type of move and presents you with their best offer. Some brokers can get very competitive rates due to their volume of business. However, there are services for which the cost will not be negotiated – cubic feet moves, for example. If you receive an estimate from a broker or moving

Differences between a moving brokerage and an actual local moving company

  1. Cost: A moving company will charge you for their services, whereas a moving brokerage will receive a commission from the movers for sending them your business.
  2. Services: A moving company can provide all the necessary services for your moves, such as packing, loading, and unloading. A moving brokerage may only be able to connect you with a mover.
  3. Packages: A moving company will have a variety of service packages to meet your needs, while a broker is usually limited to one or two options.
  4. Quality of Service: Working with a moving company provides you the opportunity to research customer reviews and quality ratings from previous customers. With a brokerage, you typically can’t do this.
  5. Experience: A moving company will have years of experience in the moving industry, while a moving brokerage may be new to the game.
  6. Insurance: A moving company must have insurance, whereas a moving brokerage is not.
  7. Ease of Use: A moving company will have a website and phone number where you can easily get in touch with them. A moving brokerage may be difficult to find or contact.
  8. Contracts: You’ll receive a binding contract when working with a moving company. When working with a brokerage, your agreement is not enforceable by law.
  9. Time of Service: A moving company will typically arrive on time and be able to work according to your schedule. A moving brokerage may not have the same level of control over its movers.
  10. Accessibility: If you have any questions or problems during your move, a moving company will be available to help you resolve them. A moving brokerage may not have the resources to do this.

Ways to tell a Moving Company is a moving broker

  1. Pricing:

A broker will have a ton of moving quotes from different companies and will offer you the choice of which one you want to pick from. A moving company will typically give you a single quote once they know what your move entails.

  1. Reviews:

A broker doesn’t have an online presence or any reviews since most of their work takes place offline. A moving company typically has a strong online presence.

  1. Moves completed:

A broker won’t have any information regarding the total number of moves completed in their history. A moving company will usually provide you with a detailed list of moves they’ve done along with the dates and names of the companies/individuals hiring them to do it.

  1. Services offered:

A broker typically offers a wide range of services, but they all come at an extra cost. A moving company usually provides all the necessary moving services, often included in the price.

  1. Timeframe:

Brokers will always take weeks to months to complete your move, while moving companies can do it in days or even hours.

  1. Communication:

Brokers will communicate through email or over the phone. If you have any questions or problems, you’ll need to contact them. A moving company will have a designated customer service line that is available 24/7, and they often offer online chat support. You can also visit their physical location if needed.

  1. Contracts:

When you sign a contract with a broker, it’s not binding by law. This means they can change the terms of the agreement or back out completely without consequences. A moving company will have a legally binding contract that cannot be changed without both parties agreeing to the changes.

  1. Logistics:

Moving companies usually use a third-party logistics provider, which offers them access to an established network of moving and storage providers around the country/globe. Moving brokers do not use a third-party logistics provider and, as a result, do not have the same level of access to quality providers.

  1. Insurance:

When you work with a broker, they are not legally required to have insurance. When you work with a moving company, they are required by law to carry both General Liability Insurance and Cargo Insurance.

  1. Liability Coverage:

A broker typically has minimal liability coverage, whereas a moving company is legally required to have a certain level of coverage that protects you from any damages that may occur during the move.

 

Reasons why you should hire a moving company and not a moving brokerage

  1. Efficiency:

A moving company can provide you with a complete end-to-end solution covering loading, transporting, and unloading. A moving broker uses outside vendors, which means it can add another link in the chain of services, leading to delays and problems throughout the process.

  1. Dependability:

Since a moving company works exclusively with one client, they do not have to coordinate their schedule around other clients. This means you can expect them to show up on time, as planned, and they will make every attempt to mitigate any delays that may occur before the move begins.

  1. Convenience:

When hiring a moving company, all you need to do is provide them with a few details about your move, and they will take care of the rest. You don’t have to worry about contacting different providers or getting multiple quotes.

  1. Peace of Mind:

A moving company is held liable by law for any damages that may occur during your move. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered if something goes wrong.

  1. Cost:

A moving company is often cheaper than a broker, especially if you need all the services that they offer. Plus, there are no hidden fees or additional costs when you work with a moving company.

  1. Trust:

When you work with a reputable and well-established moving company, you don’t have to worry about their reputation or the kind of service they offer. You can trust them to take care of your valuable belongings as if they were their own. You will never know how reliable they are when hiring a broker since they keep all their clients anonymous.

  1. Security:

A moving company often has security measures in place to protect your belongings during transport. This includes using unmarked trucks and having properly trained staff in packing and handling fragile items. Brokers do not have the same level of security in place, which leaves your belongings vulnerable to damage or theft.

  1. Quality:

Since a moving company uses their truck and employees, they can maintain high-quality control throughout the move. This means your belongings will be handled with care and transported in the most efficient way possible. Brokers often use multiple vendors, which can lead to inconsistency in service.

  1. Insurance:

A moving company is required by law to have insurance that will protect your belongings in case of damage or loss. A broker is not legally required to have insurance, which means you are taking a risk by using their services.

  1. Liability Coverage:

A moving company has a much higher level of liability coverage than a broker does. This means you will be protected from any damages that may occur during the move, whereas a broker has limited or no coverage at all.

By hiring a moving company to handle your relocation needs instead of using a moving broker, you can rest assured knowing that your belongings will arrive safely and on time. It’s important to do your research and get multiple quotes before making a final decision. The bottom line is that a moving company provides a much more efficient, reliable, and affordable service than a broker does. So if you’re looking for a stress-free move, it’s worth considering hiring a moving company.