Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Moving is stressful. There’s no way around it. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, the process involves a lot of moving parts (pun intended). From packing up your life to figuring out logistics, there’s a lot to consider. And at the heart of it all? Choosing the right moving company.
The wrong movers can turn a smooth transition into a nightmare—damaged belongings, hidden fees, or worse, your stuff disappearing into the void. So how do you make the right choice? Simple: You do your homework.
Here’s what I’ll cover in this guide:
How to assess your moving needs before hiring a company
Key red flags to watch out for when researching movers
The importance of licensing, insurance, and experience
How to compare quotes (without falling for scams)
Additional services that might make your move easier
Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Know What You Need Before You Search
Before you even open Google and type “best movers near me,” take a moment to figure out exactly what you need. Every move is different, and hiring the right company depends on several factors:
Distance – Are you moving locally, interstate, or internationally?
Timeline – Do you have a strict deadline, or can you be flexible?
Budget – How much are you willing to spend?
Services – Do you need help with packing, storage, or fragile items?
Having a clear idea of your requirements will save you from wasting time on companies that don’t fit the bill.
Need tips on making your move stress-free? Check out these 8 simple moving tips.
Step 2: Research Moving Companies Like a Pro
Now that you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to find movers who can get the job done right. Here’s how:
1. Ask for Recommendations
Your friends, family, or coworkers have probably moved at some point. Ask them who they hired and whether they’d recommend them. Firsthand experiences are gold.
2. Check Online Reviews
Reading reviews is crucial. But don’t just glance at the star rating—dig deeper. Look for common complaints like:
Hidden fees – Unexpected charges after the move starts.
Poor communication – Movers who don’t respond to questions or show up late.
Damaged or missing belongings – More common than you think.
Websites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are great places to start.
3. Verify Licensing & Insurance
Never—never—hire an unlicensed moving company. A legitimate mover should have:
A USDOT number (for interstate moves, verify on the FMCSA website)
State-level licenses (for local moves)
Insurance coverage (so you’re not left paying for damaged belongings)
Planning to pack your own boxes? Learn how to pack like a pro.
Step 3: Compare Quotes Without Falling for Scams
Now comes the fun part—getting quotes. Most reputable movers offer free estimates based on your move details. But before you jump on the lowest price, consider this:
Binding vs. Non-Binding Quotes
Binding – A fixed price that won’t change unless you add extra services.
Non-Binding – A rough estimate that could increase later. Be cautious!
Binding Not-to-Exceed – The best option. You won’t pay more than the estimate.
Red Flags in Moving Quotes
Movers who won’t provide a written estimate
Prices that seem too good to be true
Requests for a large cash deposit upfront
Pro tip: Always get at least three estimates to compare. And ask about additional fees—some companies charge extra for stairs, long carry distances, or even using an elevator.
Step 4: Experience Matters (A Lot!)
Would you trust a new driver to handle a long-haul truck? Probably not. The same logic applies to movers.
Years in Business – The longer, the better. Established movers have better systems in place to handle your move efficiently.
Specialized Moves – If you have antiques, a piano, or fragile artwork, choose movers with experience in handling valuables.
Customer Satisfaction – Look beyond marketing claims—real customer feedback is what matters.
Moving fragile items? Learn how to protect your valuables.
Step 5: Transparency & Communication are Non-Negotiable
A moving company should make things easier, not add to your stress. Pay attention to how they communicate from the start.
Are they responsive? Do they answer calls and emails promptly?
Do they provide everything in writing? Verbal promises mean nothing if they’re not in the contract.
Do they explain charges clearly? No one likes surprise fees at the last minute.
If they’re vague, dismissive, or unwilling to answer questions, that’s a big NOPE.
Step 6: Consider Additional Services That Can Make Your Move Easier
Not all moves are straightforward. Some require extra services that can save you time and headaches.
Packing & Unpacking – If you don’t have the time (or patience), some movers handle this for you.
Storage Options – Moving on different dates? Short-term storage might be a lifesaver.
Disassembly & Reassembly – For bulky furniture that won’t fit through the door.
Want to save time packing? Check out these packing hacks.
Final Decision: Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, you want a moving company that makes you feel confident about your decision.
Do they have solid reviews and a good reputation?
Are their prices transparent with no shady fine print?
Do they communicate well and seem genuinely professional?
If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track. If something feels off, keep looking.
A move is already stressful enough—you don’t need unreliable movers making it worse. Take your time, do your research, and choose a team that treats your belongings with care.Looking for more moving tips?
Ultimate Moving Day Checklist – Don’t forget anything important!
Mistakes to Avoid During Your Move – Learn from others’ mistakes.
DIY vs. Hiring Movers – What’s the best choice for you?
