i got 5 bids so far. Three I wasn't sure about the company, two I'm checking out more closely

I'm also reading reviews on Yelp and Citysearch and contacting a few bigger companies

I may also go with andex's tip to rent my own truck and just hire guys to do the lifting and loading

also suggest checking them out on NY BBB site

good idea

get references, no matter what. We had a terrible experience with movers once.

great idea!

boy, I have no idea. We usually move ourselves because my husband is a little impatient. Can you get referrals from friends?

i've been reading a bunch of customer reviews, complaints, etc... not as good as a personal referral, but I'm still getting a general sense

fortunately too we dont have anything that is super expensive, antique, very sentimental etc, so that makes for less to worry about

there is something to be said for that approach.

I generally work on the principle of only letting stuff you don't care about out of your sight... but if you're driving the van anyway...

... then it'll be all goof

good

that does sound good