How to Avoid National Moving Chains Like Two Men and a Truck and All My Sons

When it’s time to relocate, the moving company you choose plays an integral role in ensuring a smooth transition. While national chains might seem like the easy and familiar choice, they might not always be the best fit for your specific needs. It can be tempting to go with a household name like Two Men and a Truck or All My Sons, but your best moving option may be a moving company that is local to your area. This guide will dive into the reasons you might consider opting for a locally-owned mover over a national chain and how to make the best decision for your situation.

Downsides of Moving with a National Chain

The allure of national moving chains often rests on their widespread recognition and presumed consistency. However, it’s essential to understand that bigger doesn’t always mean better. National chains have a wide reach, but they may come with their own set of potential disadvantages, such as:

• Impersonal Service: Operating on a vast scale often leads to a one-size-fits-all approach, sacrificing the intimate touch you might need during such a significant transition. You’ll find that your calls or claims may go through a call center or a corporate office that never works with you personally.
• Higher Costs: Based on our research speaking with real moving companies, national chains offer higher-range prices. This is typically due to the fact that they can get customers based on brand recognition alone, as opposed to offering a fair price or top-quality services. Google gives them a high ranking due to their national reach, which gives them an advantage that they can leverage.
• Less Flexibility: With rigid structures and policies, national chains may not be able to be as accommodating to last-minute changes or unique needs.
• Non-Standardized Service: A recognized name doesn’t always guarantee consistent quality, as service standards might vary among different franchises or locations.

Remember, a big brand name, such as Two Men and a Truck or All My Sons, may come with a feeling of security, but it’s crucial to analyze whether their services align with what you truly need.

Benefits of a Locally Owned Moving Company

When you’re looking for a moving company, local businesses offer customer care and efficiency that massive corporations can’t match. The direct and intimate interactions with locally owned movers can make a world of difference. Here are just a few of the benefits of using an independent, locally-owned moving company:

• Personalized Service: Local companies often prioritize relationships, as they have to make up for not having a household name, leading to customized solutions and dedicated care. Many locally owned moving companies will even avoid having a phone tree, meaning when you call, you get a real person.
• Competitive Rates: With lower operational overheads and more of a drive to compete with major brands, these businesses can provide excellent services at a much more fair cost.
• Flexibility: Locally owned moving companies operate out of one or two locations, meaning that they have the flexibility to provide adaptability, ensuring they can handle unique scenarios or last-minute requests.
• Owner On-Site: To ensure that you are handled, no matter what happens during your move, you can take advantage of the fact that the owner is on-site and involved with the day-to-day of a locally owned moving company.

Turning to a locally owned mover could very well be the decision that transforms your moving experience from stressful to seamless. Take advantage of these benefits that you would be missing out on with a national chain like Two Men and a Truck or All My Sons.

How to Find a Locally Owned Mover

Finding a reputable, locally owned mover can make a significant difference in your moving experience. Here are some steps to guide you in identifying genuine local moving companies:

• Word of Mouth: Personal recommendations from friends, family, and neighbors are invaluable. They can provide insights based on their direct experiences, which can guide you to trustworthy local companies.
• Local Business Directories: Platforms like the Chamber of Commerce or local business directories often list genuine local businesses. These can be a good starting point to identify moving companies in your vicinity.
• Online Reviews: Check platforms like Yelp, Google My Business, or the Better Business Bureau. Look for moving companies with positive reviews in your area. Remember to read through the reviews to understand the nature of their services and customer experiences. We suggest looking at the total number of reviews, how recent those reviews are, and what their total score is.

Remember, while price is an essential factor, it shouldn’t be the only consideration. The company’s reputation, reliability, and the quality of service they offer are equally, if not more, important.

FAQ on Locally Owned Moving Companies

1. Q. Are locally owned movers as reliable and well-equipped as national chains?
   A. Many locally owned movers are just as reliable and well-equipped as national chains. The key is to research and choose a reputable local mover. While national chains might have a more extensive fleet or standardized equipment across locations, a quality local mover will ensure they have the necessary tools, training, and resources to facilitate a smooth move.
2. Q. How do customer service experiences typically differ between locally owned moving companies and national chains?
   A. Customer service experiences can vary widely even within the same chain of moving companies. However, locally owned movers often prioritize relationship-building and thus might provide a more direct and attentive customer service experience. National chains, due to their larger scale, might sometimes come across as more impersonal.
3. Q. Which type of company is more flexible when it comes to last-minute changes or unique moving requirements?
   A. Generally, locally-owned moving companies tend to be more flexible and accommodating. Their smaller scale of operations allows them to adapt more easily to unique scenarios or last-minute requests. National chains, with their structured policies, might not always provide the same level of adaptability.
4. Q. Can I trust a local mover with special or fragile items?
   A. Most local movers take great care with all items, but for particularly valuable or fragile belongings, it’s vital to communicate. Discuss the nature of these items with the movers in advance. Check if they have experience handling such objects, if they offer special packing or crating services, and if these items would be covered adequately by their insurance. Some movers might also have partnerships with specialty moving services for items like pianos, artwork, or antiques.
5. Q. Is there a significant cost difference between local movers and national chains?
   A. While costs can vary widely based on several factors, locally owned movers often have lower operational overheads, allowing them to offer competitive rates. National chains might sometimes have higher prices due to their expansive operational costs, branding, and marketing expenditures.

What Is the Difference Between a National Chain and a National Van Line?

National chains and national van lines often get grouped together, but they operate quite differently. A national chain, like Two Men and a Truck or All My Sons, functions under one brand name across various locations, primarily through franchising. In contrast, a national van line represents a coalition of independent moving companies that agree to work under a unified banner on long-distance moves while adhering to specific standards. The key is that they are independent, only working together when it would be a benefit to the customer on long-distance moves, providing a streamlined moving experience.

While both options can seem similar, national van lines might offer a more personalized touch. Each company within a national van line retains its independent spirit and local expertise but operates with the backing and resources of a larger organization.

Be Careful to Avoid Moving Brokers

Moving brokers have become a considerable part of the moving industry and something to desperately avoid. Many moving brokers present themselves as local moving companies but in reality, are looking to take your information and sell it, most likely to multiple moving companies. Unlike moving carriers, moving brokers do not have their own trucks or crews. This presents potential issues that you will face, including:

• Unpredictable Quality: When you’re handed over to another company, there’s no guarantee of service quality.
• Hidden Costs: Moving brokers often give you an incredibly low price to entice you to give them your information. They will then send a real moving company who will charge you a much higher cost. You may even not know what the real cost will be until your items are already on the truck.
• Reduced Accountability: With a middleman in the mix, pinning down responsibility in case of mishaps becomes complicated. This is especially true as moving brokers often change their name repeatedly due to their poor service.

Many brokers masterfully present themselves as locally-owned businesses online. Their websites might showcase images of moving trucks, happy families, and even feature local landmarks or testimonials. But in reality, they might be based anywhere, making decisions without any local expertise. Make sure that you avoid brokers by looking for a real address, checking their licenses, and making sure you get an in-depth survey of all of your items with a comprehensive moving quote or estimate. Never get a quote or estimate blindly over the phone.

Final Thoughts

The choice between a locally owned mover and a national chain is pivotal in shaping your moving experience. While locally owned movers often bring personalized services and community insights, national chains present a broader scope and brand recognition. It’s crucial to evaluate your individual needs, whether it’s a desire for a personalized touch, cost considerations, or the assurance of a known brand. Dive deep into reviews, seek first hand recommendations, and remember that your mover doesn’t just transport items—they handle pieces of your life. The key lies in making an informed and thoughtful choice.