Finding the right moving company can make or break your moving experience. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, knowing how to choose a trustworthy, reliable mover is key to saving money, avoiding stress, and protecting your belongings.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best choice — and avoid the biggest mistakes.
🧭 1. Know What Type of Move You Need
Start by defining your moving needs. Are you making a local move within the same city, or a long-distance move across state lines? Some companies specialize in local moves, while others are licensed for interstate or international relocations. The size and distance of your move will help narrow down your options.
Tip: If you’re moving long-distance, make sure the company is registered with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
🕵️ 2. Research and Compare Moving Companies
Use moving review platforms (like ours!) to find and compare top-rated movers in your area. Look at:
- Ratings and reviews on Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Years in business
- Services offered (packing, storage, full-service, etc.)
- Transparency around pricing
💬 3. Ask the Right Questions
When reaching out to companies for quotes, don’t be afraid to ask questions like:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you provide binding or non-binding estimates?
- What additional fees should I be aware of?
- Who handles the actual move — your team or subcontractors?
💰 4. Get At Least 3 Quotes
Don’t settle for the first estimate. Gather at least 3 quotes to compare pricing, services, and professionalism. Be wary of quotes that are dramatically lower than others — that’s often a red flag.
🚩 5. Watch for Red Flags
Avoid moving scams by watching for these warning signs:
- Movers demand a large upfront deposit
- No written estimate is provided
- They’re not listed on FMCSA or lack a USDOT number
- Poor customer reviews or hidden contact info on their site
📦 6. Understand the Services Offered
Not all moves are created equal. Some movers offer:
- Full-service moves (they pack, load, transport, and unpack)
- Labor-only services (you pack, they move)
- Storage options if there’s a gap between moving out and moving in
Choose a company that matches the level of support you need.
📝 7. Get Everything in Writing
Once you’ve selected a mover, make sure all agreements — including inventory, delivery timeline, pricing, and liability — are clearly laid out in a written contract. Never rely on verbal agreements alone.
🔚 Final Thoughts
Choosing the best moving company starts with research, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts. A good moving company will be transparent, communicative, and focused on customer satisfaction.
Ready to find a mover you can trust? Browse our top-rated moving company reviews to compare services, prices, and customer experiences — all in one place.
