
Based on checking the website Northernmovingsystems.com, it appears to be a moving broker that coordinates and arranges for the transportation of household goods by FMCSA authorized motor carriers, rather than being a direct motor carrier itself.
This distinction is crucial for understanding how their services operate and what to expect when engaging with them.
While they offer services like long-distance, local, interstate, and international moving, along with packing and storage solutions, it’s important to approach such services with a clear understanding of the financial and logistical implications, ensuring all dealings are transparent and fair, and free from any elements that might lead to uncertainty or dispute.
Navigating the complexities of moving, especially across states or internationally, requires careful planning and a reliable partner.
Northernmovingsystems.com aims to facilitate this process by connecting you with various carriers.
However, as with any brokered service, the ultimate responsibility for the actual move lies with the underlying carrier, and their charges will be based on their published tariff.
Therefore, due diligence in reviewing all contractual agreements and understanding the terms, including payment methods and cancellation policies, is paramount.
Ensuring clear communication and transparent agreements from the outset can help in avoiding potential pitfalls and ensuring a smooth transition to your new location.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Northernmovingsystems.com Review & First Look
Based on looking at the website, Northernmovingsystems.com presents itself as a comprehensive solution for various moving needs, from local shifts to international relocations.
They highlight their specialization in long-distance moves, offering services that include residential and commercial moving, packing, and temporary storage.
The site emphasizes customer satisfaction, boasting a 4.8/5 rating based on over 1,000 reviews and a 97.4% satisfaction rate from 717 surveys.
This initial impression suggests a company focused on providing a wide range of moving services, positioning themselves as a world-class moving service provider.
Understanding Their Role as a Broker
It’s critical to understand that Northern Moving Systems explicitly states they are a “Properly Licensed Interstate Broker” and “is not a Motor Carrier.” This means they don’t physically transport your goods themselves.
Instead, they “coordinate and arrange for the transportation of household goods by an FMCSA Authorized Motor Carrier.”
- What this means for you: Your contract and the actual transportation will be with a third-party carrier. Northern Moving Systems acts as an intermediary, connecting you with movers.
- Implications: While they aim to align you with “the best agents,” the quality of the actual moving service ultimately depends on the selected carrier. It’s crucial to review the carrier’s reputation and tariff rates thoroughly.
- Transparency: The website does well in clarifying this point, which is important for setting realistic expectations. This model can be beneficial for customers seeking competitive quotes from multiple carriers through a single point of contact, but it also means an additional layer of communication and potential for misunderstanding if not clearly managed.
Initial Service Offerings and Guarantees
The website prominently features several attractive offers and guarantees designed to draw in potential customers:
- “Moving Out of State as low as $1895.00”: This upfront pricing for long-distance moves is a strong hook, although it’s important to note it’s “as low as” and subject to various factors.
- “30 Days free storage”: A valuable offer for those needing temporary storage solutions during their move, indicating their capacity for comprehensive service.
- “Best price guaranteed.” and “PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE”: They promise to meet or beat any reputable moving company’s price. This is a significant claim, suggesting confidence in their competitive pricing.
- 24/7 Services: They state their professional services are available “365 Days A Year,” which implies high accessibility and responsiveness for customer needs.
- Free Estimate: A standard but essential offering, allowing potential customers to get a preliminary cost assessment without obligation.
Northernmovingsystems.com Features
Northernmovingsystems.com offers a suite of features designed to streamline the moving process for individuals and businesses alike.
Their focus appears to be on providing comprehensive support from initial contact to the final delivery, leveraging their role as a broker to connect clients with suitable carriers.
Diverse Moving Services
The core of Northern Moving Systems’ offering lies in its diverse range of moving services, catering to various needs and distances. Vispring.com Reviews
- Long Distance Moving: This is a highlighted specialization, with promotions for out-of-state moves starting “as low as $1895.00.” They emphasize their expertise in cross-country and even overseas relocations.
- Geographic Reach: The website implies a wide network, capable of arranging moves across the US and internationally.
- Focus on Coordination: As a broker, their strength here is in coordinating with various carriers that operate long-distance routes, aiming to find the best fit for your specific requirements.
- Local Moving: For moves across town, they advertise “the most affordable hourly rates.” This indicates flexibility to handle smaller, localized moves in addition to their long-distance forte.
- Hourly Rates: This pricing model is common for local moves and can be cost-effective for shorter distances where item volume is lower.
- Commercial Moving: They specialize in “long distance moving and delivering your items promptly and professionally” for businesses. This service targets companies needing to relocate offices or business assets.
- Professional Handling: Implies a level of expertise in managing commercial logistics, which often involves specialized equipment and timelines.
- Residential Moving: This covers typical household relocations, whether within a city or across states, ensuring personal belongings are transported safely.
- Customer-Centric Approach: The website’s testimonials and satisfaction rates suggest a focus on ensuring a positive experience for individual homeowners.
Packing and Storage Solutions
Beyond just transportation, Northern Moving Systems provides ancillary services crucial for a complete moving experience.
- Packing Services: While packing materials are “provided for an additional charge by First National Van Lines,” the availability of this service is a convenience for those who prefer professional packing.
- Professional Packing: Can reduce the risk of damage during transit and save time for the customer.
- Third-Party Provider: It’s important to note that the packing materials come from a specific partner, so understanding the quality and cost implications is key.
- Temporary Storage: They offer “temporary storage in our state of the art climate controlled facilities” with “30 Days free storage” highlighted as a benefit.
- Climate-Controlled: This feature is vital for protecting sensitive items from extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Security: While not explicitly detailed, “state of the art facilities” implies a level of security for stored goods.
- Utility: Useful for customers whose new residence isn’t immediately ready or for those needing to declutter during a move.
Customer Support & Accessibility
The website emphasizes customer service and ease of access to their offerings.
- Contact Options: They provide a phone number 877 513-5138 and an email address [email protected] for inquiries.
- Operating Hours: Customer service is available “anytime between 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.”
- 24/7 Services: While customer service has specific hours, the claim of “Our Professional Services Are Available 365 Days A Year” might refer to the operational readiness of the carriers they coordinate with, implying flexibility in scheduling moves.
- Free Estimates: The ability to get a free moving quote by phone or through a “get a quote form” on the website simplifies the initial inquiry process.
- Online Quote Form: Provides a convenient digital avenue for starting the moving process.
Northernmovingsystems.com Cons
While Northernmovingsystems.com presents a compelling front with its service offerings and guarantees, it’s crucial to look beyond the immediate appeal and consider potential drawbacks, especially given its role as a moving broker.
Understanding these aspects can help in making a more informed decision and managing expectations.
Brokerage Model Specifics
The primary ‘con’ or point of caution stems from their operational model as a moving broker rather than a direct carrier.
- Lack of Direct Control over the Move: As Northern Moving Systems coordinates and arranges for transportation by a third-party FMCSA authorized motor carrier, they do not directly handle your belongings. This means:
- Variability in Carrier Quality: While they claim to align you with “the best agents,” the actual service quality can vary significantly between different carriers they partner with. A negative experience with the assigned carrier might reflect poorly on Northern Moving Systems, even if they aren’t directly responsible for the physical move.
- Limited Recourse in Disputes: In case of damages, delays, or other issues, you would typically need to file claims directly with the motor carrier, whose tariff dictates the terms. Northern Moving Systems might assist, but their direct liability is limited.
- Communication Layers: An extra layer of communication exists. You communicate with Northern Moving Systems, who then communicates with the carrier. This can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or delays in information flow.
- Transparency on Carrier Selection: While they promise “best agents,” the website doesn’t offer explicit details on how these carriers are vetted or if customers have a say in selecting from a short-list of potential carriers.
- Due Diligence Burden: It falls on the customer to perform their own research on the specific carrier assigned by Northern Moving Systems, including checking their DOT and MC numbers for licensing, insurance, and safety records via FMCSA SAFER system.
Pricing and Cost Transparency
While attractive offers are highlighted, the specifics of pricing might require deeper scrutiny.
- “As Low As” Pricing: The “Moving Out of State as low as $1895.00” is a starting point, not a guaranteed price. Factors like distance, volume, weight, special items, and additional services packing, stairs, long carries will significantly increase the final cost.
- Potential for Hidden Fees: It’s essential to get a detailed, binding estimate from the actual carrier, not just a preliminary quote from the broker. Brokerage fees and charges for packing materials from First National Van Lines, as stated on the site need to be clearly understood upfront.
- Price Match Guarantee Nuance: While appealing, the “Price Match Guarantee” requires the competitor to be “reputable.” The definition of “reputable” might be subjective, and the process for price matching isn’t detailed, which could lead to complications.
Customer Support Limitations
While they advertise 24/7 services, there’s a distinction in what that means.
- Limited Customer Service Hours: Their customer service department is available only “9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.” This means if issues arise outside these hours e.g., during a weekend move or late-night transport, immediate assistance from Northern Moving Systems might not be available.
- Reliance on Carrier for 24/7 Support: The “24/7 SERVICES” claim likely refers to the operational availability of the third-party carriers they contract with, not direct support from Northern Moving Systems itself. This distinction is vital for urgent issues.
Reliance on Third-Party for Packing Materials
The website states: “Packing materials are provided for an additional charge by First National Van Lines.”
- External Provider for Packing: This means another third-party is involved specifically for packing materials, adding another layer to the service chain.
- Cost and Quality: Customers would need to inquire directly about the quality, variety, and specific costs of these packing materials. It’s a point of concern if the material quality isn’t up to par, potentially impacting item safety.
Northernmovingsystems.com Alternatives
For those seeking moving services, exploring alternatives to Northernmovingsystems.com is a wise approach, especially given the nuances of working with a moving broker.
The market offers a wide array of options, from direct moving companies to other types of brokerage services, each with its own benefits and considerations. Esim.me Reviews
Direct Moving Companies Full-Service Movers
These companies own their trucks, employ their own staff, and directly handle every aspect of your move.
- Benefits:
- Direct Accountability: You deal with one company from start to finish, simplifying communication and accountability for your belongings.
- Consistent Service Quality: The quality of service is more consistent as it’s controlled internally.
- Dedicated Crews: Often, the same crew that loads your items will also unload them, leading to fewer errors and better care.
- Considerations:
- Potentially Higher Cost: May sometimes be more expensive than brokered services, especially for long distances, as they bear all operational costs.
- Less Flexibility in Pricing: Less likely to offer significant discounts as they have fixed overheads.
- Examples:
- United Van Lines: One of the largest full-service moving companies in the U.S., offering comprehensive moving, packing, and storage services for residential and corporate clients. They have a vast network and experience.
- Mayflower Transit: Another major player, similar to United Van Lines, providing nationwide and international moving services with a focus on personalized support and careful handling.
- Atlas Van Lines: Known for its network of agents and commitment to quality, Atlas offers a full suite of moving services, including specialized transportation for high-value items.
- North American Van Lines: Provides both full-service and DIY-assisted moving options, with a strong focus on corporate relocation and military moves.
Other Moving Brokers/Marketplaces
Similar to Northern Moving Systems, these platforms connect you with various carriers, but they might have different vetting processes or service models.
* Comparative Quotes: Can provide multiple quotes from different carriers, helping you find competitive pricing.
* Convenience: Simplifies the search for movers, especially for long-distance moves where finding reliable carriers can be challenging.
* Still a Brokerage Model: The same caveats regarding accountability and potential communication layers apply.
* Vetting Varies: The thoroughness of carrier vetting can differ significantly between brokers.
* Moving APT: A well-known moving broker that claims to work with a network of licensed and insured movers across the country. They aim to provide competitive pricing and dedicated moving coordinators.
* International Van Lines IVL: While they also operate as a carrier for some services, IVL frequently acts as a broker, particularly for international moves and specialized services. They often appear high on review lists for their comprehensive offerings.
* Native Van Lines: Another broker that connects customers with a network of movers for various types of relocations, emphasizing customer service and competitive pricing.
DIY Moving Solutions Rental Trucks/Containers
For those on a tighter budget or who prefer more control, DIY options are viable.
* Cost-Effective: Often the cheapest option, especially for local moves or if you're willing to do most of the labor.
* Full Control: You manage packing, loading, driving, and unloading.
* Labor Intensive: Requires significant physical effort and time.
* No Professional Liability: Any damage to your belongings is your responsibility unless you purchase separate insurance.
* Driving a Large Vehicle: Can be daunting for those unaccustomed to driving large trucks.
* U-Haul: Offers various truck sizes, trailers, and moving supplies for rent. Also provides moving containers U-Box for long-distance moves.
* Penske Truck Rental: Known for well-maintained trucks and often good customer service, particularly for one-way rentals.
* Budget Truck Rental: Another cost-effective option for truck rentals, often having competitive rates.
* PODS: A popular moving container service where they drop off a container, you load it, and they pick it up and transport it to your new location or storage facility.
Hybrid Solutions Labor-Only Services
Combine DIY elements with professional help for loading/unloading.
* Cost Savings: Cheaper than full-service movers as you handle transportation.
* Reduced Physical Strain: Professionals handle the heaviest and most awkward items.
* Still Need a Truck: You're responsible for renting and driving the moving truck or container.
* Coordination Required: You need to coordinate arrival times for both the truck and the labor crew.
* HireAHelper: A marketplace to find local moving labor for loading, unloading, packing, or even just furniture rearrangement.
* Bellhops: Offers similar services to HireAHelper, providing local moving help for hourly rates.
How to Cancel Northernmovingsystems.com Subscription
While Northernmovingsystems.com doesn’t operate on a “subscription” model in the traditional sense like a monthly service, cancelling refers to discontinuing their brokered moving services after you’ve engaged with them.
This typically involves cancelling your agreement for a planned move before it commences, or addressing issues during the process.
The website provides general contact information, but specific cancellation policies would be governed by the terms of service you agree to.
Steps to Cancel Your Moving Service Agreement
To cancel your agreement with Northernmovingsystems.com or the carrier they’ve assigned, you generally need to follow these steps:
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Review Your Contract/Agreement:
- Key Document: Your primary source of information for cancellation terms will be the service agreement you signed with Northern Moving Systems, and crucially, any separate bill of lading or agreement from the actual motor carrier assigned to your move.
- Cancellation Clause: Look for clauses detailing cancellation policies, fees, and timelines. Many moving contracts have specific windows for free cancellation, after which a fee may apply, especially if the move date is very close.
- Deposit Refund Policy: Understand whether any deposits made are refundable, partially refundable, or non-refundable.
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Contact Northern Moving Systems Directly: Fixabolt.co.uk Reviews
- Primary Contact: The website lists their customer service number as 877 513-5138 and email [email protected].
- Formal Communication: It is highly recommended to communicate your cancellation request in writing via email or certified mail in addition to a phone call. This creates a clear paper trail.
- Include Details: Provide your full name, contact information, move date, origin and destination addresses, and any booking or reference numbers associated with your move. Clearly state your intention to cancel the moving service.
- Request Confirmation: Ask for a written confirmation of your cancellation, including any applicable refunds or fees.
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Contact the Assigned Motor Carrier If Applicable:
- Separate Agreement: If you have already received and signed a separate bill of lading or service agreement directly with the motor carrier Northern Moving Systems assigned, you may also need to contact that carrier directly to ensure the cancellation is processed on their end.
- Avoid Misunderstandings: Double-checking with both the broker and the carrier minimizes the chance of miscommunication or services still being dispatched.
Potential Fees and Considerations
- Cancellation Fees: It’s common for moving companies and brokers to charge cancellation fees, especially if you cancel within a certain number of days e.g., 72 hours, 7 days before the scheduled move date. These fees are often to cover administrative costs and lost business.
- Deposit Forfeiture: Some companies require a non-refundable deposit to secure your move. If this is the case, you may lose that deposit upon cancellation, regardless of the timing.
- Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates: If you received a non-binding estimate, cancellation might be simpler, but binding estimates often come with more stringent cancellation clauses.
- Document Everything: Keep records of all communications dates, times, names of representatives, content of conversations, copies of emails. This is crucial if disputes arise.
- Read the Fine Print: Every moving company’s cancellation policy is unique. It’s imperative to read the fine print of your contract before signing, rather than waiting until you need to cancel.
By being proactive, understanding your contractual obligations, and communicating clearly and formally, you can navigate the cancellation process with Northernmovingsystems.com or any moving service provider more effectively.
Northernmovingsystems.com Pricing
Northernmovingsystems.com prominently advertises an enticing starting price for long-distance moves: “Moving Out of State as low as $1895.00.” While this figure serves as a strong initial hook, it’s crucial for potential customers to understand that this is an entry-level price and the final cost of a move is highly variable. As a moving broker, their pricing structure will primarily reflect the rates negotiated with the actual motor carriers they partner with.
Factors Influencing Final Moving Costs
The initial “$1895.00” is a base, and the actual cost of your move will be determined by a multitude of factors, typical for any moving service:
- Volume/Weight of Goods: This is the most significant factor. The more items you move, the larger the truck needed, and the higher the weight, directly impacting the cost. Moving companies often charge by cubic feet or weight for long-distance moves.
- Distance of the Move: While the “$1895.00” is for “out of state,” the specific mileage between your origin and destination plays a critical role. Longer distances naturally incur higher costs.
- Type of Move:
- Long-Distance/Interstate: Generally priced based on weight/volume and distance.
- Local/Intrastate: Often priced by the hour, with a minimum number of hours, plus travel time. Northern Moving Systems states they offer “the most affordable hourly rates” for local moves.
- Packing Services: The website explicitly states, “Packing materials are provided for an additional charge by First National Van Lines.” If you opt for professional packing services, expect additional costs for labor and materials.
- Disassembly/Reassembly: If movers need to take apart and put back together furniture beds, exercise equipment, etc., this will likely be an additional service charge.
- Specialty Items: Moving oversized, fragile, or valuable items like pianos, pool tables, antiques, or fine art requires special handling, crating, and potentially additional insurance, all of which add to the cost.
- Accessorial Services Additional Services: These are common surcharges in the moving industry:
- Stair Carries: If movers have to navigate multiple flights of stairs at either origin or destination.
- Long Carries: When the moving truck cannot park close to the entrance and movers have to carry items a significant distance.
- Shuttle Services: If a large moving truck cannot access your street, items may need to be transferred to a smaller vehicle for transport to/from the main truck.
- Expedited Delivery: If you need your items delivered by a specific, tight deadline, this often comes at a premium.
- Appliance Servicing: Disconnecting/reconnecting appliances like washing machines, dryers, refrigerators.
- Storage Needs: While Northern Moving Systems offers “30 Days free storage,” any storage beyond that period will incur daily or monthly fees, which need to be clarified.
- Insurance/Valuation Coverage: Basic liability is minimal. If you desire full value protection for your belongings, it will be an additional cost, either purchased through the carrier or a third-party insurer.
- Time of Year/Seasonality: Moving during peak seasons summer, end of month or holidays often comes with higher prices due to increased demand.
- Fuel Surcharges: Fuel costs can fluctuate and may be applied as a separate surcharge.
How to Get an Accurate Quote
To get a true understanding of your potential moving cost with Northernmovingsystems.com, or any broker/carrier, you should:
- Request a Detailed Inventory: Provide a comprehensive list of all items you plan to move. Be as accurate as possible.
- On-Site or Video Survey: For larger moves, insist on a virtual or in-person survey. This allows the mover or the carrier they partner with to accurately assess the volume and any challenges stairs, tight doorways.
- Get a Binding Estimate: A binding estimate guarantees the price, provided your inventory and services don’t change. A non-binding estimate can fluctuate. Understand which type of estimate you are receiving. The website states that “All Estimated Charges And Final Actual Charges Will Be Based Upon The Carrier’s Tariff Which Is Available For Inspection From The Carrier Upon Reasonable Request,” indicating the ultimate authority on pricing rests with the actual carrier.
- Inquire About All Potential Fees: Ask for a clear breakdown of all possible charges, including accessorial fees, packing, and insurance.
While the “as low as” price is a starting point, preparing for the full scope of costs is essential when planning a move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northernmovingsystems.com a direct moving company or a broker?
Northernmovingsystems.com is explicitly stated as a licensed interstate broker, not a direct motor carrier.
They coordinate and arrange for the transportation of household goods by FMCSA authorized motor carriers.
What types of moving services does Northernmovingsystems.com offer?
They offer a range of services including long-distance moving, local moving, commercial moving, residential moving, packing services, and temporary storage solutions.
Does Northernmovingsystems.com offer international moving?
Yes, the website states that they specialize in cross-country moves across the US and overseas, indicating they arrange for international relocations. Techsyentra.com Reviews
How much does it cost to move out of state with Northernmovingsystems.com?
The website advertises “Moving Out of State as low as $1895.00.” However, this is a starting price, and the final cost will depend on factors like distance, volume of goods, and additional services.
Does Northernmovingsystems.com provide packing materials?
Yes, they can arrange for packing materials to be provided for an additional charge by their partner, First National Van Lines.
Is storage available through Northernmovingsystems.com?
Yes, they offer temporary storage in climate-controlled facilities, including “30 Days free storage.”
What are Northernmovingsystems.com’s customer service hours?
Their customer service department is available between 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
Does Northernmovingsystems.com offer 24/7 services?
They claim “24/7 SERVICES,” which likely refers to the operational availability of the third-party carriers they coordinate with, not direct customer service support at all hours.
How can I get a free moving quote from Northernmovingsystems.com?
You can get a free moving quote by filling out their “get a quote form” on their website or by calling their customer service number.
What payment methods does Northernmovingsystems.com accept?
They accept cash, credit card, and various types of checks certified check, traveler’s check, bank check, or personal check with certain limitations.
What is Northernmovingsystems.com’s satisfaction rate?
Based on 717 surveys, they report a 97.4% satisfaction rate.
Does Northernmovingsystems.com offer a price match guarantee?
Yes, they state they will meet or beat any reputable moving company’s price guaranteed.
How do I begin the moving process with Northernmovingsystems.com?
You can start by filling out their “get a quote form” online or by calling them to initiate your move. Muralsyourway.com Reviews
Are the estimated charges from Northernmovingsystems.com binding?
The website states that all estimated and final actual charges will be based upon the carrier’s published tariff, which implies that the final charges are determined by the specific motor carrier.
It’s important to clarify if your estimate is binding with the actual carrier.
What should I do if I have an issue during my move arranged by Northernmovingsystems.com?
Since they are a broker, issues would typically be handled by the assigned motor carrier according to their tariff.
You should also contact Northernmovingsystems.com for assistance in resolving the issue.
Can Northernmovingsystems.com help with commercial relocations?
Yes, they specialize in long-distance commercial moving, aiming to deliver items promptly and professionally for businesses.
Are there any hidden fees with Northernmovingsystems.com?
While the website highlights low starting prices, additional costs for services like packing materials, stair carries, long carries, or specialty items are common in the moving industry.
Always request a detailed, binding estimate from the carrier.
How does Northernmovingsystems.com vet the motor carriers they work with?
The website states they “make it a point to align you with the best agents in the world,” but specific details on their vetting process are not publicly detailed.
It’s advisable for customers to perform their own due diligence on the assigned carrier.
Does Northernmovingsystems.com handle my items directly?
No, as a broker, Northernmovingsystems.com does not transport your household goods directly. Glasspebbles.co.uk Reviews
They coordinate and arrange for the transportation by an FMCSA authorized motor carrier.
What is the DOT and MC number for Northernmovingsystems.com?
Their DOT number is 4216383 and their MC number is 01629009, as listed on their website.
These numbers can be used to check their licensing and regulatory compliance with the FMCSA.
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