What to look for
- A USDOT number for interstate moves, and state licensing where required
- A physical address and real company name
- Estimates based on a walk-through, in person or by video
- Clear valuation coverage options
- Reviews that mention on-time delivery and careful handling
Questions to ask before you hire
- Is this estimate binding, non-binding or not-to-exceed?
- What coverage comes with the price, and what does more coverage cost?
- Do you charge for stairs, long carries or packing materials?
- Will your own crew do the move, or is it brokered to another company?
- What's your claims process if something breaks?
Getting and comparing quotes
Have each mover see the same rooms and items, and ask for the estimate in writing. A quote far below the others is a warning sign, since some scams lowball the estimate and raise the price once your things are on the truck.
Red flags
- Gives a price over the phone without seeing your stuff
- Asks for a large cash deposit
- Has no USDOT number for an interstate move
- Changes company names or shows up in a rental truck