How to Choose a Moving Company: 5 Essential Tips
Choosing a moving company is one of the most important decisions you'll make during your relocation. The right team can turn a stressful day into a smooth, seamless experience, while the wrong one can lead to disaster. With so many options out there, how do you know who to trust? To help you make an informed decision, the experts at SOS Moving have put together a list of five essential tips for choosing a reliable and professional moving company.
1. Check for Proper Licenses and Insurance
This is non-negotiable. A legitimate moving company must be licensed and insured. This protects you if your belongings are damaged or lost.
- For interstate moves (between states): The company must have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. You can verify it on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website.
- For local moves (within a state): Requirements vary, but most states require movers to have a state-level license.
Never hire a company that cannot provide proof of their license and insurance.
2. Read Real Customer Reviews
Reviews are a powerful tool for gauging a company's reputation. Don't just rely on the testimonials on their website. Check third-party sites for unbiased feedback.
- Look for patterns: Are multiple reviews mentioning the same positive things (e.g., "punctual," "careful," "professional crew")? Or are there recurring complaints (e.g., "hidden fees," "damaged furniture")?
- Check multiple sources: Look at Google Reviews, Yelp, and other reputable platforms to get a well-rounded view.
3. Get Multiple, In-Home or Video Estimates
A reputable moving company will want to see your belongings to give you an accurate quote. Be wary of any company that gives you a firm estimate over the phone without seeing your inventory.
- Ask for a binding estimate: This type of quote guarantees that the price will not exceed the original estimate, as long as the inventory doesn't change.
- Get it in writing: A verbal quote is not a contract. Always get a detailed, written estimate that lists all services and fees.
4. Look for Professionalism
Professionalism goes beyond simply moving boxes. It’s a reflection of the company's standards and respect for its customers.
- Website and Communication: Do they have a professional, easy-to-navigate website? When you call, do they answer the phone professionally and answer your questions clearly?
- Branded Equipment: A professional company invests in its brand. Look for clean, branded trucks and uniformed employees.
- Clear Contract: They should provide a clear contract (the Bill of Lading) that outlines all terms and conditions before the move begins.
5. Ask the Right Questions
Before you book, have a list of questions ready. A professional company will be happy to answer them.
- Are you a moving broker or an actual carrier? (You want a carrier, who will handle your move themselves).
- What is your policy on valuable or specialty items?
- What is your cancellation policy?
- How long have you been in business?
Why SOS Moving Checks All the Boxes
We encourage all our potential customers to do their research, because we're confident in the quality of our service. SOS Moving is a fully licensed and insured moving company with years of experience and thousands of positive reviews. We provide transparent, written estimates and our professional, uniformed team is dedicated to providing a caring and reliable service. We are not a broker; we are the carrier who will handle your move from start to finish.
Conclusion
Choosing the right moving company is the key to a successful relocation. By taking the time to check for licenses, read reviews, and ask the right questions, you can hire a team with confidence and ensure your moving day is as stress-free as possible.
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