Moving to a new home is a major life event that can be exciting and stressful. While packing and organizing are crucial, choosing the right moving company can make or break the experience.
Unfortunately, many people make critical mistakes during hiring, leading to unnecessary stress, financial loss, or even damaged belongings.
Hiring a reliable mover requires careful research, thorough planning, and an understanding of potential pitfalls.
In this article, we’ll highlight the most common mistakes to avoid when hiring a moving company so you can have a smooth and hassle-free relocation.
1. Failing to Research the Company
Would you trust a stranger with all your possessions? Probably not. Yet, many people hire movers without doing proper research.
Checking online reviews, company ratings, and testimonials can save you from headaches later. Look up the company on platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see what past customers have to say.
Additionally, check for complaints on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. A reputable company should have positive feedback, a strong track record, and minimal complaints.
Beyond reviews, look for details about the company’s history, experience, and expertise in the moving industry. A mover with years of experience is likely to have encountered and solved various challenges, making them more reliable.
Furthermore, check if the company has a physical address, as companies that operate without one may be untrustworthy. If possible, visit their office to get a sense of their operations.
It’s also wise to verify if the company is part of professional associations like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) or state moving associations.
Membership in such organizations often indicates a commitment to high service standards and ethical business practices.
2. Not Getting Multiple Quotes
Never settle for the first quote you receive. Getting at least three different estimates allows you to compare prices and services.
Also, understand the difference between binding and non-binding estimates. A binding estimate ensures the price won’t change, while a non-binding one can fluctuate based on the actual move.
Make sure to ask for a written quote detailing all costs, so there are no surprises later. Some movers offer low quotes upfront but tack on hidden fees later.
When comparing quotes, ensure they include the same services. Some movers may provide lower initial estimates but charge separately for packing, storage, or labor. A detailed breakdown helps you make an informed decision.
Additionally, ask if the mover offers in-home estimates instead of online or phone quotes. In-home surveys are generally more accurate and help prevent unexpected costs on moving days.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to negotiate. If you receive a high estimate from a reputable company, ask if they can match or beat a competitor’s price. Some companies may be willing to adjust their rates to secure your business.
3. Ignoring Licensing and Insurance
Your movers should be properly licensed and insured. Check their USDOT number (for interstate movers) or state registration (for local movers). Insurance protects your belongings in case of damage, so always verify coverage before hiring a company.
If a company cannot provide proof of licensing and insurance, consider it a red flag. Without proper insurance, you could be left paying for any damages to your items.
Having sufficient insurance coverage ensures your valuables are protected. Movers typically offer two types of coverage: Released Value Protection and Full Value Protection. Released Value Protection provides minimal coverage, usually at 60 cents per pound per item.
Full Value Protection, while more expensive, ensures compensation equal to the item’s replacement value. Always confirm what type of coverage is included in your quote.
Moreover, research the company’s claims process. Understanding how to file a claim and the timeframe for reimbursement is crucial in case of damage or loss. A reputable moving company should have a straightforward claims policy and responsive customer service.
4. Choosing the Cheapest Option
It’s tempting to go with the lowest bid when hiring a moving company, especially if you’re on a budget. However, the cheapest option isn’t always the best one.
Many low-cost moving companies cut corners by hiring inexperienced staff, using poorly maintained equipment, or failing to provide adequate insurance.
In the worst cases, a cheap moving company may be a scam operation looking to take advantage of unsuspecting customers.
When choosing a moving company, focus on value rather than price alone. A reliable mover will offer a balance between affordability and quality service.
Ask for a detailed breakdown of the quote to understand exactly what is included. Some low-cost movers provide rock-bottom estimates only to tack on additional fees for packing materials, labor, fuel, or long-distance carrying fees.
A good rule of thumb is to be cautious of any quote that seems significantly lower than others. If one company’s estimate is drastically cheaper, it’s worth questioning why.
Are they using unlicensed workers? Do they lack proper insurance? Are they known for hidden charges? Investing a little more upfront in a reputable moving company can save you from major problems later.
5. Not Understanding the Contract
Before signing any contract with a moving company, you need to read and understand every detail. Many people skim through the paperwork or assume that all moving contracts are standard, but hidden fees and unfair terms can be buried in the fine print.
Movers sometimes charge extra for heavy lifting, handling oversized furniture, navigating stairs, or moving on weekends. If you don’t clarify these costs in advance, you could end up with a final bill that’s much higher than expected.
Pay attention to cancellation policies and delivery timelines as well. Some moving companies have strict rescheduling rules or may charge hefty fees if you need to cancel or adjust your move date.
Additionally, ensure that the contract includes details about liability coverage. Without clear terms on damage claims, you may struggle to get compensation if your belongings are broken or lost during transit.
A reputable mover will be transparent about their terms and willing to answer any questions you have. If you’re unsure about any clause in the contract, ask for clarification or seek legal advice before signing. Never sign a blank or incomplete contract, as this could allow the company to add unexpected charges later.
6. Skipping a Home Survey
Many people assume that a verbal estimate or an online quote is sufficient when hiring a moving company. However, skipping an in-person or virtual home survey can lead to inaccurate pricing and unexpected problems on moving days.
A professional mover should conduct a thorough assessment of your home, including all furniture, appliances, and fragile items, to provide an accurate estimate.
Over-the-phone estimates can be misleading, as they don’t account for factors like tight staircases, long hallways, or heavy furniture that may require extra labor.
If the movers arrive on moving day and realize that the job is more complex than expected, they may increase the price or refuse to move certain items.
To avoid last-minute surprises, insist on a home survey where the mover inspects everything in person or via video call. This ensures that you receive a realistic quote and allows you to discuss any special moving requirements, such as disassembling furniture or handling delicate antiques.
7. Failing to Ask About Additional Fees
A common mistake when hiring a moving company is assuming that the initial quote includes all costs. Many people are caught off guard by hidden fees for services such as carrying items up or down stairs, moving large or heavy furniture, or navigating tight spaces. Movers may also charge extra for last-minute scheduling changes, delays, or fuel surcharges.
To prevent unexpected expenses, ask the moving company for a complete list of possible additional charges. Request a written estimate that outlines all potential fees based on your moving circumstances. If you live in an apartment building with no elevator, for example, ensure that the quote includes any stair fees. If your new home has restricted parking access, ask about fees for long carries.
It’s also important to clarify what happens if the move takes longer than expected. Some movers charge by the hour, which means delays due to bad weather, traffic, or elevator restrictions could increase your final bill. Understanding all costs upfront can help you budget accurately and avoid financial stress on moving days.
8. Overlooking Experience and Specialization
Not all moving companies are equipped to handle every type of move. If you have unique or valuable items such as a grand piano, antique furniture, or expensive electronics—you need a mover with specialized experience. Some companies excel at residential moves but lack the expertise for commercial relocations or long-distance hauls.
Before hiring a mover, ask about their experience with moves similar to yours. Do they have specialized equipment for fragile or oversized items? Are their staff trained in handling high-value belongings? A company with experience in your specific type of move is less likely to make costly mistakes.
Additionally, check if the company offers packing services. If you’re moving fragile or irreplaceable items, professional packing can reduce the risk of damage. Some movers also provide custom crating for delicate artwork, sculptures, or glass furniture.
Choosing a moving company with the right expertise ensures that your belongings are transported safely and efficiently.
9. Not Verifying References
Online reviews are useful, but they don’t always tell the full story. A moving company may have positive ratings on review sites but still provide inconsistent service. One way to get a clearer picture of a mover’s reliability is by asking for direct references from past customers.
When speaking with references, ask about their overall experience, including how the movers handled their belongings, whether there were unexpected fees, and how responsive the company was to concerns. If the mover hesitates to provide references, that could be a red flag.
Checking references can also help you identify any recurring issues. If multiple customers mention damaged items, delays, or unprofessional behavior, it’s best to look for another mover. Taking the time to verify a company’s reputation can save you from a stressful moving experience.
10. Booking at the Last Minute
Waiting until the last minute to book a moving company can limit your options and increase costs. Moving companies often get fully booked weeks or even months in advance, especially during peak moving seasons in summer or at the beginning and end of each month.
If you don’t secure a mover early, you may have to settle for a less reputable company or pay higher rates for last-minute availability.
To ensure a smooth relocation, book your movers at least four to six weeks in advance. If you’re moving during a busy season, consider scheduling even earlier. Planning ahead not only gives you access to better-moving companies but also allows you to negotiate better rates and services.
Additionally, last-minute bookings increase the risk of scams. Fraudulent movers often target desperate customers who need immediate service. By planning early, you have more time to research and choose a trustworthy company.
Conclusion
Hiring the right moving company can make all the difference between a stress-free move and a logistical nightmare.
By avoiding common mistakes such as failing to research movers, ignoring contracts, and booking at the last minute, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free relocation.
Take the time to compare quotes, verify credentials, and understand all fees before making a decision. A little extra effort upfront can save you from major headaches on moving days.
