Planning a Move? Start Here.

Hiring the right moving company can mean the difference between a smooth transition and a stressful experience. With the right preparation and awareness, you can avoid hidden fees, poor service, and last-minute surprises. This 10-step guide acts as a Public Service Announcement (PSA) outlining exactly what to look for when choosing a reliable moving company.

You also have public resources from the American Trucking Association's moving.org to help you find a reputable mover and support you during this time.

1. Get Multiple Estimates and Clear Pricing Upfront

• Request more than one estimate based on in-home or virtual walkthroughs.
  
  
• Be cautious of unusually low quotes—they often lead to surprise fees later.
  
  
• Understand how you’ll be charged (hourly, by weight, or volume) and what’s included (packing materials, stairs, long carries, etc.).
  
  

2. Research Company Credentials and Reputation

• Verify licenses and USDOT registration at ProtectYourMove.gov.
  
  
• For local moves, check state licensing and insurance.
  
  
• Read reviews on Google, Yelp, and the BBB. Look for consistent feedback on reliability, care for belongings, and honest communication. Watch for recurring red flags like no-shows or price bait-and-switch tactics.
  
  

3. Know Your Consumer Rights and Protections

• Movers are required by law to provide “Ready to Move?” and “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.”
  
  
• Read these carefully to avoid hidden fees and understand what legal protections you have. You can even upload them into Chat GPT to get you a quick, detailed summary.
  
  

4. Confirm Who’s Actually Handling Your Move

• Understand if you’re hiring a mover directly or dealing with a broker.
  
  
• Brokers may outsource your move to third parties, which can lead to poor service and accountability issues.
  
  

5. Review Liability Coverage and Protect Your Valuables

• Know the value of your belongings and choose the right level of protection.
  
  
• Understand what your mover will cover in case of loss or damage.
  
  
• Keep important documents and irreplaceable items with you at all times.
  
  

6. Avoid Large Deposits and Risky Payment Methods

• A small deposit is normal, but avoid large upfront payments.
  
  
• Avoid paying in cash or through unsecured apps like Venmo.
  
  

7. Insist on a Fully Digital and Organized Process

• All paperwork—including estimates, contracts, and your bill of lading—should be digital and easy to access.
  
  
• Track and manage your move efficiently without paper clutter or lost documents.
  
  

8. Expect Real-Time Communication and 24/7 Support

• Movers should provide constant updates before, during, and after the move.
  
  
• You should be able to reach someone directly whenever questions arise—no voicemails, no delays.
  
  

9. Track Your Truck Like Uber

• On moving day, you deserve real-time GPS tracking so you always know where your belongings are and when they’ll arrive.
  
  

10. Ask Questions—And Get Straight Answers

• A reputable mover will take time to explain their process clearly and answer all your concerns. They also don’t dodge questions or send you to voicemail. They’ve got around-the-clock support to get you answers, fast.
  
  
• If they avoid your questions or give vague responses, find a company that values transparency.
  
  

Demand better. Moving is a life milestone—don’t settle for outdated practices and broken promises. Choose a mover who’s professional, transparent, and built for how life works today.

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