Moving to a new home—especially long-distance—can be both exciting and overwhelming. The right moving company can make the transition smooth, while the wrong one can lead to delays, lost items, or even scams. With so many options available, how do you choose a trustworthy and professional moving company that meets your needs?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice.
1. Start with Research & Recommendations
Before you start calling moving companies, gather recommendations from:
- Friends and family who have moved recently.
- Online reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau.
- Industry organizations like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) or FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) for verified movers.
Look for consistent positive feedback, professionalism, and reliability. Avoid companies with multiple complaints about damaged items or unexpected charges.
2. Verify Licensing & Insurance
A reputable moving company should be:
- Licensed: Interstate movers must have a U.S. DOT number from the Department of Transportation. You can verify this on the FMCSA website.
- Insured: The company should provide basic liability coverage and offer additional valuation protection for your belongings.
If a moving company refuses to provide proof of licensing and insurance, that’s a red flag.
3. Get Multiple Quotes & Watch for Red Flags
Contact at least three moving companies to compare quotes. When requesting estimates:
- Choose companies that offer in-home or virtual inspections instead of giving estimates over the phone.
- Be wary of lowball estimates—a price that’s too good to be true often leads to hidden fees or poor service.
- Watch out for companies that demand large upfront deposits—most reputable movers require payment upon delivery, not before.
4. Understand the Services Offered
Not all moving companies provide the same services. Be sure to ask if they offer:
- Full-service packing and unpacking
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Storage solutions if needed
- Specialty moving services (pianos, antiques, electronics, etc.)
If you need a long-distance move, look for companies that specialize in long-distance moves, like https://mattsmoving.com/long-distance-movers/. These movers are equipped to handle the complexities of interstate moving.
5. Check for Transparent Contracts
Before signing any agreement, review the contract carefully. A legitimate moving contract should include:
- A detailed inventory list of your items.
- Pricing breakdown (hourly rate vs. flat fee, fuel costs, storage fees, etc.).
- Delivery windows and estimated move duration.
- Cancellation and refund policies in case plans change.
Never sign a blank or incomplete contract, and always get everything in writing.
6. Ask About Customer Support & Claims Process
Even with the best movers, accidents can happen. Ask the company about:
- Their claims process in case of damaged or lost items.
- How they handle delays and unexpected issues.
- Their customer service availability before, during, and after the move.
A reliable moving company will have clear communication and a well-defined process for handling disputes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right moving company requires careful research, but it’s worth the effort. By verifying credentials, getting multiple quotes, and understanding the contract details, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free moving experience.
