How to Choose a Moving Company: A Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying Licenses and Avoiding Scams

Selecting the right moving company is critical for a smooth relocation. The most important factors are verifying the mover's legal license, researching their reputation through objective sources, and understanding the full scope of their services. Failing to conduct proper due diligence can lead to significant financial loss and stress. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to evaluate movers effectively, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make a confident decision.

How do I verify a moving company's license and insurance?

The first and most critical step is to confirm the company’s legal standing. A licensed and insured mover is a fundamental requirement for consumer protection. The authority you need to check with depends on the type of move.

• For In-State Moves: Regulation falls under state jurisdiction. The overseeing body is typically the state's Department of Transportation (DOT) or Public Utilities Commission (PUC). You should contact the relevant agency in your state to confirm the mover's active status and any complaint history.
• For Out-of-State Moves: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the federal agency that grants operating authority to interstate movers. Use their online Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System to verify the company's USDOT number, insurance, and safety inspection records.
• For International Moves: Ensure the company working with the ocean carrier is certified by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). This certification is essential for moves involving shipping household goods overseas.

Never take a company's claims at face value; always perform this independent verification.

What is the best way to research a moving company's reputation?

After confirming legal credentials, assess the company's reputation beyond its advertising. Paid ads can be misleading, so focus on objective sources.

Start with recommendations from trusted individuals who have recently moved. Then, comb through online reviews on multiple platforms, paying close attention to comments about the crew's professionalism and how the company handled problems. A key indicator of a reputable business is how it responds to negative feedback. Do they address concerns constructively? A pattern of unresolved complaints is a major warning sign.

Also, check for professional affiliations, such as membership in the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA), which suggests a commitment to industry standards. An active and transparent presence on social media can also indicate good customer communication.

What additional services should I look for when comparing movers?

A reputable mover often provides value-added services that simplify the entire process. Once you have a shortlist of licensed companies, compare their service offerings.

Look for expertise in handling special items. This includes custom crating for artwork or antiques, professional disassembly and reassembly of furniture, and specialized packing for high-value electronics. Some companies offer storage facilities if you need a place to keep your belongings temporarily. Others may provide professional cleaning services for your old or new home. Always ask for a detailed price list for these additional services to avoid surprises.

What are the biggest red flags when choosing a mover?

Being aware of common scam tactics is your best defense. Immediately eliminate any company that exhibits the following warning signs:

• No Physical Address: A legitimate business should have a verifiable office location.
• No Written Estimate: A company should provide a written, binding, or not-to-exceed estimate after conducting an in-person or virtual survey of your home.
• Large Upfront Deposit: Be wary of any demand for a significant cash deposit before moving day.
• Suspicious Pricing: An estimate that seems unrealistically low or excessively high compared to others warrants skepticism.
• Missing Documentation: A reputable mover will provide you with the FMCSA booklet “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” and will never ask you to sign blank or incomplete documents.

The key to a successful move is thorough research. By systematically verifying licenses, objectively assessing reputation, and understanding the full range of services and costs, you equip yourself to choose a reliable partner. Always get estimates from at least three different companies to ensure you are getting fair market value for your move.