current city: Toronto |
click, connect to everything condominiums (TM) blog | forum | post condo listings FREE
The Grandma Rules, Rules!

May 11, 2011

By: Dan Hopkins

Moving can be one of the most exciting – and stressful – times in a person’s life.

When people relocate, the possessions they take with them are a critical part of turning a house or apartment into our “home.” There is plenty of emotion attached to “stuff,” and with that in mind, moving companies take on an awesome responsibility when we transport your furnishings and accessories from one place to another.

And you should be able to trust that your belongings, both big and small, are being treated with the care and respect they deserve.

The Canadian Association of Movers recommends that when you shop for a mover, it is wise to conduct some research to increase your chances of finding a reputable company that will treat you with respect as well. At TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®, we agree!

At the very least, you should be able to expect honesty and integrity when it comes to your moving experience. This includes a thorough and reasonable estimate for your move, and then delivery on whatever promises are made.

In your search for a mover, learn as much as possible about what services are offered. If the company representative is reluctant to answer your questions, move on. Every mover should be ready to educate customers on their services and on what they can do to help make the move go as smoothly as possible. For example, on our website, we provide moving tips, a checklist and even special things you’ll need to consider for large items, such as pianos.

You should always receive your moving quote in writing, and unless you change the parameters of the move substantially, you should pay what you expect to at the other end. A reputable mover will treat you with kindness throughout, and you should never feel intimidated.

These are all sentiments that go along with the “golden rule.” We have our own version of that motto called THE GRANDMA RULE®, and it forms our main Core Value - “To treat everyone the way you would want your Grandma to be treated.” We do regular customer surveys to ensure that we are upholding the principles of honesty and fairness. Check with the moving companies you approach to find out whether there are customers you can approach for a reference. The Canadian Association of Movers (movers.net) also has a web page for consumers including a member directory to help you connect with reliable, professional moving services.

One other thing you may consider during your search is whether or not the movers you contact are happy. That may seem strange, but people who like what they do, do a better job. Professionalism should go hand in hand with enjoyment. We adopted the tagline “Movers Who Care®” to reflect our attitude toward what we do. We consider ourselves much more than just a moving company – we are a customer service company that moves. And nowadays, the peace of mind that comes along with that is priceless.

Other Articles by Dan Hopkins:

To Pack, or Not To Pack...

Do your Research and Choose Your Mover Wisely

 

ABOUT TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® – CANADA

In 2005, TMT International awarded its first master franchise in Canada to TMT Franchising Corp - a division of the Heron Capital Corporation. The Canadian TMT Master Franchise company currently has a customer referral rate of 94 per cent with fourteen Ontario locations servicing London, Hamilton, Halton, Mississauga North, Mississauga South, Brampton, Etobicoke, Toronto Mid-Town, Toronto East, Oshawa, Barrie, Newmarket / Aurora, Kingston and Ottawa. Visit www.twomen.ca.

Dan Hopkins is Chief Operating Officer and Vice President, Development & Operations, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® - CANADA

ABOUT TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for over 25 years and currently operates in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Ireland with 200 locations operating 1,400 moving trucks and completed 358,000 moves last year. www.twomen.com.