Looking to Move? Here's What to Look for in a Moving Company

You've done it. You scrimped and saved a down payment, got your credit score in good shape, and got pre-approved by a few mortgage lenders. Then you found the right house, closed on the right mortgage loan for you, and now it's time to move into your new home. Thankfully, you've set aside some extra cash to hire movers, because it's a big job and you want to focus on tasks besides hauling boxes up and down stairs. Let's take a look at what to consider when you're deciding which moving company to hire.

Good reviews

The first information you'll have access to when you're looking for moving companies, aside from company names, of course, are online reviews through Google or Yelp. Aim for companies that have more than one or two reviews to get the fullest picture of how they do business.

And if you see the same rave (or complaint) repeated more than once, it's worth taking seriously. If Company A has multiple reviews noting that the movers were late, while Company B's reviews say movers showed up on time, you can likely trust their accuracy. You can also check the Better Business Bureau for reviews and a letter grade for the companies you're considering.

Nearby headquarters

Odds are, you can call a national moving company with local affiliate offices and arrange for a move. But it's a better idea to cut out the middle company and call your local movers directly. Bob Vila notes that this way, you'll be assured that a company can actually send an employee to your home to see the lay of the land, so to speak, and give you an accurate estimate. You might also be able to verify the company's existence by visiting its headquarters and seeing its equipment for yourself. You are less likely to be scammed by a fraudulent company if you think local.

Clear and reliable communication

If a moving company can't be bothered to respond to a voicemail or contact form email when you inquire about an estimate, don't hire that company. Clear communication is really the bare minimum when you're hiring for any professional service. If your plans change before your move (say, you need to switch to a new date or time), you should be able to easily reach the company.

To that end, see how the company communicates with you from the very beginning. And ensure you get a reliable contact number for the day of -- say, a business cellphone number from the person in charge of your moving day crew.

A solid binding estimate -- in writing

Speaking of getting that estimate, make sure you get a real estimate from any companies you're considering hiring. And get it in writing. Ideally, a prospective company will be able to send a representative out to your home to get a look at your actual stuff, as well as the layout of your home. That representative should also be able to work up a time estimate, so if the company's pricing is per hour, you'll end up with an accurate idea of how much it'll cost.

If the company balks at giving you an estimate, that's right -- hire someone else. And it's best to talk to multiple companies and get multiple estimates. Those estimates should be binding, but if they're not, movers are required by law to adhere to the 110% rule, per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This means the company is required to deliver your items for no more than 10% more than a nonbinding estimate.

No deposit requirement

It could be a red flag if a moving company requires a deposit to schedule your move, and it's definitely a red flag if it's a large deposit (over say, 20%). Bob Vila says it's not common practice in the industry to ask for a deposit, and could indicate that the company is shady and intending to take your money and run, rather than showing up on moving day.

Trust your gut on this one, and if nothing else gives you pause, a small deposit to guarantee your moving day may not be a problem. But use a credit card to pay it, so you'll be covered if there is a problem. Credit cards provide protection in the event of scams and fraud.

Insurance coverage

The FMCSA notes that interstate movers must be licensed and insured -- you can check out companies using its mover search tool. Insurance requirements vary in different states, but it's best to hire a moving company that is insured, so your belongings are more protected. Ask about insurance coverage, and if the company dodges your questions, that's another red flag.

It can be a bit nerve wracking to put your earthly possessions in the hands of strangers, so definitely do your due diligence before you hire movers (lest you have a terrible moving experience like one of my colleagues had last year). The FMCSA has a handy page of resources for consumers hiring movers, so if you run into trouble, check it out. Happy moving day, and remember, this will all be over soon and you can settle into your new home.