Moving can be such an incredibly stressful process, but if you hire the right moving company, it doesn’t have to be. It’s important that when searching, you’re taking into account a variety of factors. Following the suggested guidelines listed below can help to ensure you’re choosing the right company that is licensed and is a good fit for you!
There are many “companies” out there that are not licensed and insured. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve been called because a poor customer thought they were booking with a reputable company only to find they were a “fly by night” mover who did not have any licensing, took their money, and never showed up. We’ve also received the calls where their items were loaded and then just never arrived at their new home because the company they contacted was not legitimate. It is extremely important to check the DOT authority, and anyone can check via the FMCSA database! https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/consumer-information
It is important that you’re receiving estimates and signing agreeing to terms and conditions between you and the company. This will make sure that rates and pricing is agreed upon by both parties as well as what you should expect from the service you are receiving. You may also reach out to a few moving companies to get bids as this can be a method of avoiding a company that charges well above market average.
Of course, there are multiple platforms to be checking reviews. Read about what other customers of that company have said about them. Google, Yelp, BBB, Facebook, and FMCSA all have sections to help you decide which moving company is best fit for you.
Knowing your rights and responsibilities when it comes to booking a moving company can help to make sure you, as well as the company, are following the rules and guidelines given statewide and/or federally. Every moving company should be providing this booklet called Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move to you onsite or digitally prior to your move. https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/RightsandResponsibilitiesBooklet_2022Update.pdf
Bottomline, being knowledgeable in your rights, choosing a moving company that reflects professionalism, and ensuring positive experiences can help in picking the moving company that is right for you. We would encourage you to follow this link to the FMCSA on how to choose a qualified moving company. Steps to Select a Mover | FMCSA
