How to find movers you can trust doesn’t need to be a complex task. Whether you’re moving across town or to a distant location, the process of relocation can be one of life’s most stressful events. Entrusting your valued belongings to the right hands is paramount. Unreliable and unprepared movers can lead to unwanted complications, and in the worst cases, your valuables might fall into the hands of dishonest companies. Follow these 10 valuable tips for finding a trustworthy moving company you can rely on.
How to find movers
- When seeking a dependable moving company, consider input from friends and family. Their candid experiences can reveal red flags or recommendations that guide your choice.
- Select a reputable moving company, not a broker, to ensure a direct and trustworthy partnership, minimizing complications during your move.
- Before choosing a mover, thoroughly research the company. Established businesses are typically more transparent about their qualifications and customer feedback. Trustworthy movers have readily available information beyond their official websites.
- Always verify a moving company’s legitimacy with federal and state resources. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration offers details on licensing, safety, and customer complaints. For local moves, check your state’s specific regulations to ensure compliance with local laws.
- Before making your choice, confirm the mover’s license and insurance. A valid license from the Department of Transportation is a must. Avoid uninsured movers to prevent potential financial liabilities, and always ask for an “Insurance Certificate” for verification.
- Examine online reviews from platforms like Yelp, Yellow Pages, Facebook, Google, and Better Business Bureau. Focus on recent feedback and avoid excessive perfect scores. Opt for a mover with a strong positive review history and effective issue resolution.
- Following thorough online research, visit the moving company’s office to discuss services. A reputable mover should have a physical address, which is essential for dispute resolution. The visit assesses real-world factors like office condition, employee demeanor, and truck status, aiding your final decision on a reliable moving company.
- For accurate estimates, insist on an in-home assessment. Avoid estimates via email or phone calls to prevent delays and cost hikes. A trustworthy mover willingly offers in-home estimates, and any reluctance raises concerns about their reliability.
- Ask for a cost breakdown based on shipment weight to prevent overcharging. Ensure estimates align with service quality. A significantly lower quote may signal poor service quality.
- A trustworthy mover provides the required booklet outlining your rights and responsibilities in state-to-state moves. Failure to do so may indicate a lack of transparency and trustworthiness. A mover must be fully accountable.
