How to Choose the Right Moving Company

## Verify Licensing and Insurance The first thing to check is whether the company is properly licensed. For interstate moves, the mover must have a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For local moves, check your state's requirements. Every legitimate mover carries both cargo insurance and liability coverage. Ask for proof — a reputable company will provide it immediately.

## Get Multiple In-Home or Virtual Estimates Never accept a quote given over the phone based only on a bedroom count. A reliable moving company will offer an in-home walkthrough or a virtual video survey to assess the actual volume of your belongings. Get at least three estimates and compare them side by side. Be wary of any estimate that comes in dramatically lower than the others — that's often a sign of a lowball quote that will inflate on moving day.

## Read Reviews — But Read Them Carefully Google, Yelp, and the BBB are good starting points. Look for patterns rather than individual reviews. One bad review in a sea of five-star ratings isn't a red flag — but repeated complaints about hidden fees, damaged items, or late arrivals should give you pause. Pay special attention to how the company responds to negative reviews. A professional response shows accountability.

## Understand the Estimate Type There are three types of moving estimates: non-binding (just a guess), binding (a fixed price), and not-to-exceed (you won't pay more than the quote, but could pay less). Not-to-exceed estimates offer the best consumer protection. Make sure you understand which type you're getting before you sign anything.

## Ask About Their Claims Process Damage happens, even with the best movers. What matters is how the company handles it. Ask about their claims process before booking. Do they offer Full Value Protection? How long does a claim take to resolve? A company that's transparent about their process is one that plans to take responsibility.

## Red Flags to Watch For Avoid any company that demands a large cash deposit upfront, won't provide a written estimate, operates under multiple names, doesn't have a physical address, or shows up on moving day with an unmarked truck. These are signs of a rogue mover that may hold your belongings hostage or disappear entirely.