11 Tips For Hiring Quality Movers

With millions of moves every year in the United States, it’s a minor miracle that most of them go smoothly, with no issues whatsoever. But even with so many smooth moves, scams or shoddy practices do occur. It’s in your interest to be informed about every step in the process.

Finding a quality moving company you can trust should be a priority on anyone’s moving checklist (unless you’ve decided to completely DYI your move). Here are 11 tips for hiring movers.

Why should you hire a moving company?

Deciding whether to hire movers or move yourself largely depends on your budget, proximity to the new home, the complexity of the move, and your health. While a DIY move certainly has its pros (it’s cheaper, for one), hiring movers will take a lot of stress and effort out of your move. Just think about it: You’ll be leaving all the heavy lifting to the professionals. And that’s big. Also, the moving company is under contract to deliver its services efficiently and on time. They can’t flake like your friends and relatives. Overall, hiring a moving company will save you from many of the common moving-day stresses. So, if the idea of loading and driving a large moving truck stresses you out, then we highly recommend hiring movers to help.

Questions to ask the movers

You’ve done your diligence and got at least three quotes, researched the companies you’ve selected, checked their reviews, and learned about your rights and responsibilities. You are ready to hire a moving company. One more step before you take the plunge is coming up with questions to ask that will help you learn more about the moving companies you’re considering. They should also uncover any that will indicate you should move on, like lowballing the estimate or lacking moving insurance.

Some good questions to ask are included in the following list, but it’s not by any means exhaustive.

To find out whether the moving company is reliable and reputable

  • How long has the company been in business?
  • Have any complaints been filed against the company? If so, what were they and what measures have they taken to rectify the situation? (Check with the Better Business Bureau.)
  • Do you have references?
  • Are you properly licensed?
  • What kind of liability coverage does your company provide? Can I get additional insurance?

To get an accurate estimate

  • Can you provide a binding quote or a not-to-exceed estimate?
  • Are there any potential charges I’m not already aware of?
  • What additional moving supplies will I be paying for?
  • Do you have a cancellation policy?

To figure out the logistics and set expectations

  • How do I get in touch with the driver?
  • How do I contact your company during the move?
  • What are your non-allowables?
  • Is there a third-party service provider that will be involved in moving specialty items like a pool table, piano or grandfather clock? If so, who are they?
  • What forms of payment do you accept?
  • How long will the move take?
  • What is the process for filing a claim for damaged or broken items? Who’s responsible?

11 Tips for Hiring Quality Movers

A moving inventory is a must

Get a thorough walk-through

Don’t pay a large deposit

Avoid moving companies with a name switch

Get references for movers

Avoid packing costs

Beware of extra fees

Avoid a blank moving contract

Don’t accept the “guaranteed” quote

  • A non-binding estimate on your contract means the company cannot require payment more than 10% above the original estimate. Any overages must be paid within 30 days of delivery.
  • A non-binding to-exceed estimate on your contract ensures that you will not have to pay for any overages to the original estimate. The estimate is the maximum you’ll be required to pay for any services rendered.
  • A binding estimate on your contract is supposed to be a guaranteed price for the move and all extras and services. If you request additional services (such as unpacking), any extra fees must be paid within 30 days of delivery.

Report any problems

Understand moving insurance and valuation protection

All moving companies are required to assume liability for the value of the goods they transport. However, there are two different levels of liability. You need to be aware of the charges that apply and the amount of protection provided by each level.

Full (replacement) value protection

  • Repair the article to the extent necessary to restore it to the same condition as when it was received by your mover, or pay you for the cost of repairs.
  • Replace the article with an article of like kind and quality, or pay you for the cost of replacement.

Under this option, movers are permitted to limit their liability for loss or damage to articles of extraordinary value, unless you specifically list these articles on the shipping documents. An article of extraordinary value is any item whose value exceeds $100 per pound (for example, jewelry, silverware, china, furs, antiques, rugs and electronics). Ask your mover for a complete explanation of this limitation before your move. It’s your responsibility to study this provision carefully and make the necessary declaration.

Alternative level of liability

This no-cost option is the most economical protection available, but it provides only minimal protection. Under this option, the mover assumes liability for no more than 60 cents per pound, per article. Loss or damage claims are settled based on the pound weight of the article multiplied by 60 cents. For example, if a 10-pound stereo component valued at $1,000 were lost or destroyed, the mover would be liable for no more than $6 (10 pounds x 60 cents).

Hiring quality movers FAQ

How much does a moving company cost?

The average cost of a local move is $1,250. The average cost of a long-distance move is $4,890 (distance of 1,000 miles). These estimates are based on a two-to-three bedroom move of approximately 7,500 pounds. Check our Moving Cost Calculator for your upcoming move.

What’s included in the moving cost?

A moving estimate will factor in the weight of household belongings (for long-distance moves), the distance to the destination, cost of labor, packing cost (if the movers are packing your belongings), liability and valuation coverage, and moving date and season. There might be extra fees for moving heavy or specialty items, for the stairs, and anything that complicates the move or requires extra care and labor. If you need to temporarily store your stuff with the moving company, this will also cost extra.

What are the most expensive times to move?

Peak moving season takes place during the summer months. So, if you’re planning to move between May and September, be prepared to pay higher prices for professional movers. If you do have to move during peak moving season, we suggest aiming for a mid-month, mid-week move. Demand for movers tends to be highest during weekends, as well at the beginning and end of the month. If moving during the winter months, you may also be able to save money by moving on a weekday as opposed to a weekend.

Do moving companies offer discounts?

Yes. Many moving companies offer discounts to AAA members as well as students and members of the military.

Why should I get at least three quotes?

It’s important to compare at least three moving quotes from three different moving companies before booking a mover. If one of the quotes is out of step with the others — whether it’s much cheaper or much more expensive — this could be a red flag that something isn’t quite right. It’s not always a good idea to go with a lower estimate. If you value quality service, you may need to pay more for a quality mover.

How do I check a moving company’s U.S. DOT number?

Interstate moving companies must obtain a USDOT number. Use our How to Check a Moving Company’s USDOT Number to learn why it’s important and what it should tell you.

Should I tip the movers?

Yes, you should tip the movers if you are happy with the move. Though tips are not expected, they’re appreciated. For a simple move where you have everything packed and ready to go and the movers just load, transport and unload your things within a close distance, $20 per mover is more than sufficient. For a more intensive move (such as if you worked with full-service movers or if your move was long distance) you can tip a little more — think $30-$50 per mover, depending on your budget and satisfaction with the job.

How do I prepare for a moving company?

To prepare for the movers, pack, let the movers know where to park ahead of time, prep your house to avoid damage from moving large items and tracking in water, mud and snow in bad weather, plan for your children and the pets, and have cash on hand for tipping.

What should I do while the movers are moving?

First of all, be there on moving day and clear the paths for loading. When the movers have arrived, give them a tour. During the day, be a good host and be available for assistance.

Is there anything the movers won’t move?

Yes. There are definitely items a professional moving company won’t allow on a truck. The list includes perishable food, valuables like jewelry and collectible art, plants, pets (trucks aren’t climate-controlled), and any non-allowable items, which is the industry term for any items that are toxic, flammable or otherwise considered hazardous. This includes ammunition, fireworks, acids, nail polish, and more.

Ready to move?

To find the right moving company to handle your next move, check Moving.com’s extensive network of reputable and reliable movers. All relocation companies in our network are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands. Best of luck and happy moving!

Sources

  • https://www.census.gov/data/tables/2021/demo/geographic-mobility/cps-2021.html
  • https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker
  • https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/file-a-complaint