How to Choose the Best Local Mover

Choosing a moving company can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’ve never had to do it before. Most people looking to hire a local mover are concerned about lost or damaged property, surprise charges and not honoring estimates.

Moving is stressful enough without having to worry about the quality of the moving service you hired. To avoid expensive bills or broken possessions, it’s important to vet moving companies before hiring them.

Here are some expert tips on how to choose the best local moving company for you.

Get Referrals and Recommendations

When planning a move, many people want to go with the easiest option. Hiring the first moving service on Google seems like a good idea but can lead to bad service if you don’t know anything about the company.

Start by asking friends, family, neighbors or coworkers if they have any recommendations. If you’re working with a real estate agent, ask them if they can give you a referral.

There are also plenty of sites online with reviews and recommendations for movers in your local area. Moving.com offers a nationwide Find a Mover service.

Get Multiple Estimates

It’s easy enough to get an online quote or an estimate, decide that it’s good enough and go with that moving company, but it’s best to explore the options available to you. Ask at least three different moving companies for an in-person or virtual estimate

By going with an in-person estimate, you will receive the most accurate estimate possible. Plus, meeting a moving company employee in person can allow them to answer questions and offer service options you weren’t aware of.

Watch Out for Red Flags

Getting an in-person estimate can also be beneficial for you because it allows you to watch out for possible red flags.

No reputable moving company will ask for money up front or for a cash deposit, so if they do, it might not be a legitimate business. By paying in advance, you have no control over when you will see your belongings again, as there is no incentive for the movers to bring them to you in a timely manner. You should only pay for moving services upon delivery.

Note how professional the sales representative seems during the estimate. If they are late, unsure of their company’s services or can’t answer your questions, look for a different company.

Hire a Local Mover who is Licensed, Insured and has Accreditation

Whether you’re moving out of state or staying in your home state, there are certain licenses moving companies can receive to ensure their professionalism. The U.S. Department of Transportation issues a number to interstate movers. You can request this number and verify it at protectyourmove.gov.

For in-state moves, many states have similar state-level Department of Transportation licensing regulations. Check with your local consumer affairs agency for details specific to your location.

Ask if the moving company belongs to a trade association. These associations vet companies before allowing them to be members, so you can rest assured knowing that they have been verified by a third party.

Move Safely with the Local Mover of Your Choice

Many people want to find a local mover as fast as possible, and who can blame them? Hiring the first local mover available seems like a good idea but can lead to bad service if you don’t know anything about the company.

When you’re looking for a local mover, it’s easy enough to get an online quote and decide to hire that moving company, but it’s best to explore the options available to you. Plus, meeting a moving company employee in person will give you a better sense of their professionalism and if they are able to answer your questions.

After vetting referrals and checking if the company is licensed and insured, as well as being aware of red flags, you are sure to find the right moving company to fit your needs, no matter your final destination.