Assessing Moving Companies for Your Move

Concerned about being overcharged during your upcoming move?

Choosing the right moving company can help you avoid costly damages and stress.

The challenge is…

In 2024, more than 100,000 people sought information about moving services on BBB.org.

But that’s not all…

With nearly 17,993 moving companies operating in the country… how can you determine which ones are trustworthy?

What You’ll Discover

This guide covers:

• The importance of comparing moving services
• Verifying licenses and registrations
• Inquiring about insurance options
• The right way to read reviews
• Obtaining multiple quotes

Why It’s Essential to Compare Moving Services

When it comes to assessing moving services, the stakes are higher than just financial.

Each year, millions of individuals relocate, contributing to an industry worth over $23 billion. This attracts scammers who may take your deposit and disappear.

The reality is…

While the majority of moving companies operate ethically, some may engage in deceptive practices.

By evaluating moving services beforehand, you can shield yourself from potential scams and guarantee the safe delivery of your belongings.

Confirm License and Registration

The initial step is to ensure that any moving company you consider is legally authorized.

All moving firms engaged in interstate transport must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation—this is a legal requirement.

When assessing potential movers for your relocation, checking their DOT number should be your first task in comparing moving services.

Here’s how to verify:

Visit the FMCSA website and input the company’s DOT number. This information should be available on their site, or you can request it directly. If they seem hesitant or provide a different number… run away.

For local moving companies, consult your state’s consumer affairs site. Trustworthy movers will have state registration.

Unlicensed operation is a prevalent tactic among scammers. They may attract you with low rates, collect your deposit, and then either abscond with your possessions or demand extra payment for their return.

Inquire About Insurance Options

This is a crucial aspect.

Most moving companies provide two levels of insurance protection: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. However…

Released Value Protection is largely ineffective.

Although it’s technically insurance, it only compensates at a rate of $0.60 per pound of goods. So, if your 40-lb TV is damaged, you receive a mere $24 instead of $3,000.

Full Value Protection costs more but obligates the mover to repair, replace the item, or refund its value if it gets lost or damaged.

Always ask companies you’re researching about their insurance details, and ensure you receive a written estimate clearly outlining the coverage offered. If they are vague or rush you, seek alternatives.

Interpreting Online Reviews Effectively

While online reviews can provide valuable insights, it’s essential to know how to interpret them.

Start by checking the company’s history on the BBB website, then delve deeper by visiting the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database. If a firm has numerous complaints related to holding goods hostage or failing to meet delivery dates, remove them from consideration.

Then, search for reviews on:

• Google Reviews
• Yelp
• Trust Pilot
• Facebook

Look for consistent patterns in the feedback. A single negative review may indicate an isolated incident. However, frequent grievances regarding late arrivals, damages, or hidden costs are clear warning signs.

Additionally, search the company name along with terms like scam or complaint to uncover more information. This step should take about ten minutes but could save you a significant amount.

Be wary of overly positive reviews or a lack of recent ratings. Unscrupulous operators may generate or steal fake reviews to enhance their image.

Obtain Multiple Estimates for Your Move

Never settle for the first price presented to you.

Engage with at least three different moving companies and acquire written estimates from each. This not only aids in price comparison but also helps in identifying potential scams quickly. If one estimate is significantly lower than the others, proceed with caution.

Reliable movers will:

• Conduct an in-home (or virtual) assessment
• Provide a detailed written estimate
• Clearly outline all fees upfront
• Clarify their pricing structure

Be cautious if a moving company gives a quote over the phone. How can they accurately assess your move without evaluating the volume or packing conditions? Often, they entice you with a low figure, only to inflate costs on the day of the move.

Here are additional warning signs:

• High deposits required in advance
• Demand for cash payments only
• Inability to identify company name when answering calls
• Use of rental trucks instead of company-owned vehicles
• Providing an incomplete or blank contract

Observe any of these? Move on.

Important Additional Checks

There are a few more things to verify before making your choice.

Ensure that the moving company has a physical address—not just a P.O. Box. Use Google Maps to confirm that it’s a legitimate office.

Ask about their business operation. How long have they been active? Do they own their trucks, or do they rely on rentals? Ownership of trucks suggests reliability.

Ensure they provide a complimentary copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move,” as all movers are federally mandated to distribute this booklet.

Trust your instincts. If anything feels “off” about the company—excessive pressure tactics, ambiguous answers, or haste to get you to sign—trust your gut.

Understanding Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates

This point is crucial.

A binding estimate guarantees that the price won’t increase unless you request additional services. Unless you ask for upgrades, your quoted price is fixed.

A non-binding estimate does not offer a guarantee. The final price could be higher based on weight and extra services.

Not all companies provide binding estimates, so it’s essential to know what kind you are receiving.

Final Thoughts

Taking the time to research moving companies is worthwhile.

With Americans losing an average of $754 to moving-related scams in 2024, investing this time is certainly justified.

Here’s a concise summary:

• Confirm DOT registration and state licensing
• Opt for Full Value Protection
• Analyze reviews and identify trends
• Secure three written estimates
• Watch for warning signs

Ask questions and ensure everything is documented. If an offer appears too good to be true, it likely is.

Moving companies can vary greatly in their trustworthiness. Your proactive research will help you differentiate before committing your deposit.

FAQs

What deposit amount should I provide to the movers?

Typically, moving companies require a deposit to secure your moving date. Standard deposits range from 10-20% of the total estimate. If a company demands a deposit exceeding 20% or the entire amount upfront, these are significant warning signs. Avoid large cash deposits whenever feasible.

What distinguishes a moving broker from a moving company?

Brokers mediate between you and moving companies, meaning they don’t physically transfer your belongings. They partner with local or regional movers to facilitate the process. While brokerage can be beneficial, ensure you understand who will handle your move. Request the broker for the mover’s DOT number and insurance credentials.

When should I schedule movers?

For local moves, 2-4 weeks is generally sufficient. Long-distance relocations often require 4-8 weeks of notice. During peak moving season (May to August), it’s advisable to book even earlier.

Can I negotiate costs with moving companies?

Negotiation may be possible, depending on the company. Some utilize flat-rate pricing, while many will adjust based on your flexible moving dates, delivery windows, and self-packing options. Gathering multiple quotes will also provide leverage in negotiations.

What steps should I take if the moving company damages my belongings?

Hopefully, you’ve done your homework! File a claim with the moving company and take photos of any damages. If you opted for Full Value Protection, movers are obligated to repair or replace damaged items or reimburse you their current value. With standard valuation, compensation is limited to $0.60 per pound.