How to Choose a Reliable Moving Company: Top Tips for a Smooth Move
When it’s time to move to a new home, one of the biggest hurdles can be finding reputable movers you can trust with your time, money, and belongings. Picking a reliable moving company can be especially challenging for first-time homebuyers who lack the experience to make an informed decision. However, with a little research and preparation, you can find a trustworthy mover that suits your needs and budget.
A good household moving company should be licensed, insured, and experienced in handling local and long-distance relocations. Doing your due diligence before committing to a company can save you time, money, and potential headaches down the line. Start early: You’ll want to give yourself time to check reviews, ask for referrals, and obtain multiple estimates to ensure you make the best choice. A trustworthy moving company will be transparent about its pricing structure, services, and capabilities.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to research and compare moving companies to make an informed decision. At the end, you’ll be equipped to confidently choose a moving company that will make your relocation a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Assess Your Moving Needs
Before choosing a reliable moving company, take some time to carefully assess your moving needs.
- How far are you moving? Are you moving locally, long-distance within the same state, cross-country, or overseas? You’ll need to find reliable movers that specialize in the type of relocation you need.
- How big is your home? If moving long-distance, the total weight of your shipment will significantly affect the overall cost. If moving locally, the time it takes for the moving crew to complete the job will determine the cost.
- Do you have any special requirements? If you need help packing, moving large furniture or fragile antiques, or arranging storage, look for a full-service mover with customizable moving plans.
- What’s your preferred and maximum budget? Setting your financial limitations early will help you find a reputable moving companythat offers great service within your means.
Assessing your moving needs is a crucial step when selecting a moving company. By understanding the distance, size, special requirements, and budget for your move, you'll be able to narrow down your search to companies that meet your needs.
Research Potential Moving Companies
Once you’ve outlined your requirements, start researching moving companies that serve your area. You’ll likely find no shortage of movers, but are they trustworthy and reliable? The best way to find out is to check their credentials, read customer reviews, and look into their coverage options.
Online Reviews
Comb through online reviews on Yelp, Google, NextDoor, and the Better Business Bureau to find ratings and feedback from past customers. Reviews on a company website may be curated, so look for third-party sources.
Be sure to read through the comments to understand the pros and cons of each moving company. Keep an eye out for red flags such as hidden fees, damaged belongings, or unprofessional behavior.
Recommendations
Reach out to friends, family, or coworkers who have recently moved to inquire about their experience with the moving company they hired. Personal recommendations can give you deeper insight into the mover’s communication, timeliness, and business practices.
Once you’ve collected a few recommendations, compare them to online reviews to get a more complete picture of the company. Reputable movers should have satisfaction ratings over 90% and positive experiences across the board.
Verify Licensing & Coverage
Licensing ensures the moving company complies with government regulations, while moving coverage protects you in the event of loss or damage during the move.
Licensing
When choosing an interstate moving company, verify its license through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) Registered Mover Database. You’ll find up-to-date information on the company's headquarters location, contact information, registration status, type of moving business (e.g., carrier, broker, freight forwarder, etc.), complaint information, and safety information. Request the company's U.S. DOT number, as this will be necessary if you need to file a claim against the company later.
For moves within a state, licensing requirements vary, so check with your local consumer affairs agency or your state attorney general's office.
Moving Valuation Coverage
Under federal law, interstate movers must offer two liability options, referred to as Moving Valuation Coverage. The most common is basic, or released value protection, which offers a low level of protection at no additional charge. The second is full value protection, which makes the mover liable for the full value of goods lost or damaged in transit. While movers must make this option available, it typically incurs an additional cost.
Keep in mind that these rules only apply to interstate movers. When moving within the state, movers may not offer the same protection options. Look for reputable long-distance movers who offer valuation coverage regardless of your destination.
Compare Quotes and Services
When choosing a reliable moving company, compare quotes and services from different providers. This will help you find the best option for your needs and budget.
In-Home Estimates
An in-home estimate is a crucial step in choosing a moving company. By making a detailed inventory of your belongings, the moving company can give you an accurate quote for all the moving services you choose.
First, use a moving calculator to get a ballpark estimate for your relocation. Once you have a baseline, you can immediately weed out unreasonable estimates.
Next, schedule in-home estimates from at least three different companies to compare their prices and services. This will allow you to identify which company offers the best value for your needs.
Hidden Fees
Be aware of hidden fees when comparing estimates. Some providers may charge extra for carrying items up or down stairs, loading or unloading when the truck is parked far away, and the mileage to reach your home.
Save yourself from sticker shock when the final invoice appears. Make sure to inquire about any additional fees during the in-home estimate process and request a detailed breakdown of all charges. A reputable mover should have no difficulty providing a transparent, comprehensive quote upfront to eliminate surprises.
Comparing the full cost of services, including any hidden fees, will help you make a more informed decision on which moving company to choose. This process can bog you down, so schedule in-home estimates only after you’ve narrowed your choices to two or three reputable movers. Even if reviews are positive, always double-check the quotes and services offered by each moving company.
Evaluate Customer Service
You don’t want to entrust your belongings to a moving company only to have no way to contact them. As you read reviews, keep an eye out for mentions of poor customer service, difficult communication, or careless work.
Communication
Effective communication is essential for a moving company. Ensure the company offers 24/7 communication from the initial quote to the final delivery of your belongings. Customer service representatives should be responsive and willing to answer questions and address any concerns. A reputable moving company should offer multiple contact options, such as phone, email, and online chat.
Professionalism
Expect your movers to display a high level of professionalism throughout the moving process, from the appearance of their staff and vehicles to their punctuality and respect for your property. Pay attention to:
- Uniformed employees: Professional movers should wear uniforms at all times, both as a sign of professionalism and so you know who you’re letting into your home.
- Punctuality: Choose a moving company with a reputation for arriving when scheduled and providing accurate timelines.
- Care of your belongings: The company should use appropriate materials and equipment to protect your items during the move, such as furniture padding, sturdy boxes, and specialty packing, if needed.
- Courteous staff: The moving team and customer service representatives should be polite, friendly, and respectful.
Again, seek recommendations from friends and family and refer to online reviews to gauge the company’s overall customer satisfaction and reputation.
Sign a Written Agreement
Make sure the company offers a written agreement for the total price and all services. A well-drafted agreement outlines the responsibilities of both parties.
Contract Details
To protect your interests, the contract should include specific details about the services to be provided by the moving company. Details should include:
- Scope of services
- Moving date
- Pickup address
- Delivery address
- Inventory list of items to be moved
- Total cost
- Payment terms
- Additional fees, if applicable
Review the contract carefully before signing it. Make sure you understand every aspect of the agreement and don't hesitate to request clarifications or additional information from the moving company if necessary.
Remember to verify the company's licensing and moving valuation coverage, as this can protect you in the event of loss or damage during the move.
Cancellation Policies
The cancellation policy should outline the terms and conditions for canceling moving services, including any fees or penalties that may apply. Make sure you understand the cancellation policy fully to avoid any surprises if your plans change.
Typical cancellation policies include:
- A specific time frame during which you can cancel services without incurring charges
- A sliding scale of fees based on when the cancellation occurs
Red Flags to Watch for When Choosing a Moving Company
Unfortunately, moving scams are not uncommon. Knowing how to separate scammers from reputable movers can save you time, headaches, and, of course, money. Here are some red flags to keep an eye out for:
- Over-the-phone estimates
- Requests for large deposits
- Cash-only payments
- Asking for payment before loading
- Poor reviews or lack of reviews
- Not BBB-accredited
If you’ve reached the contract stage, be wary of any agreements that leave out important details, introduce hidden fees, or do not clearly explain the moving schedule.
Take the time to read all paperwork, check the company's address, and look up any complaints from other customers. These steps may add some homework to your move, but they’ll provide invaluable peace of mind throughout the process.
Why You Should Choose Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines is more than a name on a truck. We’re a reputable moving company with a history of quality relocation services since 1928. We provide the world’s largest moving network, with 24/7 customer service and local, on-site assistance available around the globe.
As full-service movers, we offer custom moving plans tailored to your needs and budget, with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. You’ll work with a dedicated moving coordinator throughout your relocation to address any concerns or questions whenever they might arise.
Our moving agents are BBB-accredited, and our customers give us an exceptional 96% satisfaction rating.
Ready to get started? Request a free, no-obligation quote today.
FAQs
How do I know if a moving company is legitimate?
A legitimate moving company should provide transparent pricing, written agreements, and offer moving valuation coverage. If a moving company doesn’t offer in-home assessments or demands payment before loading your belongings, they’re most likely a scam. Check online reviews and the BBB to assess their reputation.
How can I verify if a moving company is licensed?
Reputable cross-country movers must have a U.S. DOT number through the FMCSA's Registered Mover Database. For moves within a single state, check your state’s requirements for registration for moving providers.
Can I get a moving quote online, or do I need an in-home estimate?
You can get a quick quote online, but only use it as a ballpark estimate to help you compare movers. Don’t trust companies offering final quotes online or over the phone. A detailed written estimate following an in-home assessment is the only way to get an accurate, transparent quote.
What is the most important factor when choosing movers?
Make sure your mover is reputable, experienced, and open about their services. Choosing a well-known company with transparent pricing and an established reputation is the best way to ensure trustworthy, professional service.
How many quotes should I get?
Start by getting a basic estimate with an online calculator. Next, set up in-home estimates from at least three trusted movers so you can compare total costs and service options.