Don’t want to get ripped off on your next move?
Figuring out which moving company to hire can save you thousands in damages and headaches.
The problem is…
In 2024, consumers made over 100,000 inquiries about moving companies on BBB.org.
But wait, there’s more…
With over 17,993 moving companies across the US… How do you know which ones you can trust?
What You’ll Learn
In this guide:
- Why you should compare moving services
- Verify License & Registration
- Ask About Insurance
- Read Reviews The Smart Way
- Get Multiple Quotes
Why Compare Moving Services?
When it comes to moving services comparison… There’s more at stake than just money.
Millions of Americans move every year and the moving industry generates over $23 billion. Scammers know this and try to take your deposit then vanish.
Here’s the reality…
While most moving companies are reputable businesses with years of service, others are criminals.
By comparing moving services ahead of time, you’ll protect yourself against moving scams and ensure your goods arrive safely.
Verify License & Registration
The first step is ensuring any moving company you consider is legitimate.
Every moving company operating in interstate commerce must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. This isn’t a recommendation, it’s the law.
When comparing vetted movers for your relocation, checking their DOT number should be step number one of your moving services comparison.
Here’s how to do it:
Go to the FMCSA website and enter the company’s DOT number. Companies should have this info on their website, or you can ask them directly. If they hesitate or give you a different number… Run.
For local movers, check your state’s consumer affairs website. Reputable moving companies will be registered with your state.
Operating without a license is one of the most common moving scams. They lure you in with low prices, take your deposit, then either steal your possessions or demand more money to return them.
Ask Movers About Insurance
This one’s important.
Most moving companies will offer you two different levels of insurance protection. Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. But here’s the thing…
Released Value Protection is worthless.
Technically it’s insurance, but it only covers $0.60 per pound of goods. If your 40lb television gets damaged, you’ll be paid $24 for a $3,000 TV.
Full-Value protection is more expensive, but if something gets damaged or lost, the mover is liable to repair/replace the item or pay you what it’s worth.
Ask any company you’re researching about insurance, and get a written estimate with insurance detailed. If they’re vague or try to rush you, look elsewhere.
Read Online Reviews… The Right Way
Online reviews can be great… But you have to know what you’re looking for.
Go to the BBB website and check out the company’s history. Then take it a step further and check out the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database. If a company has several complaints about movers holding items hostage or missing delivery dates, cross them off your list.
Then look for reviews on:
- Google Reviews
- Yelp
- Trust Pilot
Look for trends. One bad review means someone had a bad day. But if you keep seeing the same complaints repeated over and over again… Late moves, damages, hidden fees. Those are trends that need attention.
Google the company name plus scam or complaint to see what else pops up. This step should take you about 10 minutes. But it could save you thousands.
Be cautious if you see all 5-star reviews or only a few reviews from months ago. Scammers sometimes steal or make fake reviews to appear legitimate.
Get Multiple Quotes For Your Move
Don’t ever accept the first price you’re given.
Talk to at least three different moving companies and get written estimates from each. Not only will this help you compare prices, but you’ll weed out scams quickly. If one company is significantly cheaper than the rest, be wary.
Reputable movers will:
- Visit your home for an in-person (or virtual) survey
- Provide a written estimate
- List all fees up front
- Explain how they charge
If a mover gives you a price over the phone… RUN! How can they accurately price your move without seeing the quantity/packing conditions? They lowball you to win the job, then increase the price on moving day.
Other red flags include:
- Large deposits required upfront
- Requesting cash payment only
- Not knowing company name when answering phone
- Using rental trucks vs company trucks
- Providing a blank or incomplete contract
See any of these? Walk away.
A Couple Things To Verify…
There are a couple more things to cross-off your list.
Make sure any moving company has an address. Not just a P.O. Box. Use Google Maps to verify the address and ensure it’s an actual office.
Ask questions about their operation. How long have they been in business? Do they own their trucks or use rentals? Owner operated trucks are a good sign.
Did they give you a free copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”? All movers are required by Federal law to provide this booklet.
Trust your instincts. If something feels “off” about the company – high pressure sales, vague about details, rushing you to sign – listen to your gut.
Binding vs Non-Binding Moving Estimates
This is key to understanding.
A binding estimate means your price cannot increase unless you request additional services. Unless you ask for upgrading services, your price is locked in.
A non-binding estimate is not guaranteed. Your final price could be higher based on weight and additional services.
Not all companies offer binding estimates. You just need to know which type you’re getting.
Wrapping Things Up…
Researching moving companies takes effort.
But with Americans losing an average of $754 to moving scams in 2024, it’s time well spent.
Here’s your CliffNote version:
- Verify DOT registration and state licenses
- Get Full Value Protection
- Read reviews and look for patterns
- Get 3 written estimates
- Look for red flags
Ask questions. Get everything in writing. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Moving companies range from fantastic to criminal. It’s your job to do your research and tell the difference before you give up your deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money should I give movers as a deposit?
Most moving companies will ask for a deposit to guarantee your moving date. Common deposits are around 10-20% of the total estimate. Some companies may ask for more than 20% up front or the entire total. These are huge red flags. Avoid paying large deposits in cash whenever possible.
What is the difference between a moving broker and moving company?
Brokers act as a middle man between you and moving companies. They don’t physically move your belongings, but work with local/regional movers to do so. Brokerage can be very helpful, but make sure you know who’s handling your move. Ask the broker for the mover’s DOT number and insurance information.
How far in advance should I hire movers?
If you’re doing an in-town move, 2-4 weeks should be sufficient. Long distance moves typically require 4-8 weeks notice. If you’re moving during peak season (May-Aug), it’s best to book even earlier.
Can I negotiate costs with moving companies?
It depends on the company. Some companies have flat-rate pricing, but many will work with you on your moving date, flexible delivery times, and self-packaging to lock in a lower rate. Getting multiple quotes will also give you leverage when negotiating.
What if the moving company damages my items?
Hope you did your research! File a claim with the moving company, and take photos of everything damaged. If you opted for Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair/replace damaged goods, or pay you the current value. With standard valuation, you’re only entitled to $0.60 per pound.
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