11 Tips for Finding Reliable and Affordable Movers
Moving can be a daunting task, but finding the right movers doesn't have to be. This article provides valuable tips for locating reliable and cost-effective moving services, drawing on insights from industry experts. Learn how to navigate the process with confidence and avoid common pitfalls, ensuring a smoother relocation experience.
- Ask Friends and Check Online Reviews
- Verify Credentials and Compare Quotes
- Seek Referrals from Real Estate Professionals
- Request In-Person Estimates to Avoid Scams
- Research and Verify Company Credentials
- Get Detailed Estimates and Check References
- Use Referrals and Verify Company Information
- Research Thoroughly and Pay Securely
- Leverage Network and Verify Company Status
- Ensure Proper Licensing to Prevent Scams
- Use Realtor Recommendations for Reliable Movers
Ask Friends and Check Online Reviews
I can definitely help you with that! Here's what I always recommend:
My Go-To Strategy for Finding Great Movers:
First, start by asking around. Chat with your friends, family, and anyone you know who has moved recently. Their personal experiences are invaluable! But don't stop there. Dive into online reviews. Check out sites like Yelp, Google, and the BBB. You're looking for patterns in what people are saying - both the good and the bad.
Next, don't just get one quote! You really need to get at least three to five different moving companies to give you an in-home or virtual survey estimate. If a company tries to give you a firm quote over the phone without seeing anything, be a little suspicious. Make sure every single estimate is in writing and clearly lists all the services and any possible extra charges for things like stairs, long carries from the truck, or packing supplies.
This next part is super important. You've got to verify their credentials:
* Check their license: the FMCSA and/or USDOT number. You can look this up right on the FMCSA website.
* Ask about insurance.
* Look for a real address: Check that the company has an actual physical office, not just a P.O. Box.
Then, compare what you're getting for your money. Don't just jump at the cheapest price. Really look at what each company is offering. Sometimes a super low bid can mean hidden fees later or just a bad experience.
Finally, get everything in writing. Once you've picked your mover, make sure all your agreements are in a written contract.
My top tip for avoiding scams: be extremely wary of suspiciously low estimates or demands for large upfront cash deposits. Scammers often use these tactics to add surprise fees later or hold your items hostage. Trustworthy movers rarely demand large cash sums upfront. For example, a small deposit to secure your date, like the $100 your company might charge (often payable by card or check), is perfectly reasonable - it's very different from a scammer wanting a huge cash percentage. So, if a company pushes for a hefty cash deposit or their price is unrealistically low, see it as a major red flag. Always trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, it's best to find another mover.
Verify Credentials and Compare Quotes
One effective strategy is to research and read reviews on trusted platforms like the Better Business Bureau or Yelp. Additionally, requesting quotes from multiple movers allows you to compare prices and services. To avoid moving scams, always verify the mover's license and insurance information, and be cautious of companies that require large upfront payments or avoid providing written estimates. For reliable and affordable moving services, I recommend checking out Aleks Moving. They prioritize transparency and customer satisfaction to ensure a smooth move.
Seek Referrals from Real Estate Professionals
As the Manager at Carson City Storage, I've worked with a wide range of customers—families relocating, small business owners moving inventory, and even Burning Man attendees packing up gear—so finding reliable, affordable movers is something we often help with.
My go-to strategy is to recommend movers who are highly referred by other customers and local businesses. I keep a short list of companies that have consistently shown up on time, treated our customers' belongings with care, and offered fair pricing. I also suggest that customers check whether the mover is licensed and insured, especially if they're moving long distance or handling valuable items. A quick check with the Better Business Bureau or reading verified online reviews can go a long way.
One key tip to avoid moving scams is to never agree to a quote without a written estimate, especially if it's suspiciously low. Scammers often lure people in with attractive pricing and then pile on extra charges at the last minute. A legitimate mover will be happy to do a walkthrough, virtual or in-person, and provide a detailed breakdown of costs. Trust your gut, and if something feels off, keep looking. A reputable moving company will make the process easier, not more stressful.
Request In-Person Estimates to Avoid Scams
Most people don't realize it, but one of the best ways to avoid moving scams is to ask your Realtor.
They've already vetted movers through dozens (maybe hundreds) of real estate transactions.
More importantly, the movers know that poor service means losing future referrals from the agent and possibly the entire real estate office. This kind of pressure keeps standards high.
We've even seen the difference within the same company. On one of our own moves, we knew to ask for Dragon (yes, that's his real name) and his crew. He's been doing this for years, and it shows.
The difference between an experienced crew and a brand-new one can be night and day.
When you search for movers on your own, it's a gamble. Many companies treat you like a one-time job, and that's when things can go awry.
Trust experienced Realtors who move clients all year long. They know who's reliable, right down to which crew shows up.
Research and Verify Company Credentials
My go-to strategy for finding reliable movers is to ask for recommendations from friends or family and then check online reviews on trusted sites like Google or Yelp. I also make sure the company is licensed and insured, which is easy to check through official government websites.
One tip to avoid moving scams is to never accept a quote over the phone without an in-person or video estimate. Scammers often give lowball prices, then raise the cost on moving day. A real, professional mover will give a written estimate after seeing what needs to be moved.
Get Detailed Estimates and Check References
One of the best ways to avoid moving scams is to ask real estate investors and people who've had successful moves whom they trust. Skip Yelp and Facebook groups—talk to people with firsthand experience. Once you have some names, check their customer reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. Look for patterns—if multiple reviews mention hidden fees or damaged items, take it seriously.
Use Referrals and Verify Company Information
What's your go-to strategy for finding reliable movers who are both affordable and trustworthy?
When searching for movers that are reliable and affordable, the devil is in the details. Begin by shortlisting with the help of friends, family, or online community groups. Recommendations are priceless — especially when they're from people who have used a moving company before. Ratings and reviews, as well as comments, may also be available on sites like Yelp or Angie's List, but it's good to dive a bit deeper into what's being said there. I suggest you call around to several companies for estimates and compare them not just based on price, but based on their willingness to provide detailed estimates, including hidden fees.
One of the most successful tactics I employ is to ask the moving company for references and to actually check with prior clients about their experiences. A company confident in its service will gladly give references. A second useful piece of advice is to verify the moving company's credentials. Confirm that they are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for moves across state lines, or the appropriate local agency for moves that stay in state. This is an added layer of accountability.
Tip for Avoiding Moving Scams:
A quote that feels too hopeful (or a company that won't provide an estimate) is one of the most reliable signs that you're about to fall for a moving scam. Some moving companies will quote you a super low rate and then increase the cost after your belongings are already on the truck. Always, always insist upon an in-home estimate, particularly when the move in question is more significant; this will provide a more accurate representation of what to expect. If a company is unwilling or unable to provide a full breakdown, that's a red flag.
Research Thoroughly and Pay Securely
My go-to strategy for finding reliable movers who are both affordable and trustworthy is to ask for recommendations from local real estate agents, property managers, or friends who have recently moved. These referrals usually lead to companies that have proven themselves with real customers and aren't just relying on polished online reviews. One tip to avoid moving scams is to never work with a company that won't provide a written estimate after a walkthrough or detailed inventory. Scammers often lure people in with a low quote over the phone, then drastically raise the price on moving day. A legitimate mover will be transparent, insured, and willing to put everything in writing upfront.
Leverage Network and Verify Company Status
My go-to strategy for finding reliable movers is to start with thorough research—checking reviews on multiple platforms and asking for recommendations from friends or local community groups. I also look for movers who provide clear, written estimates after an in-home or virtual survey, rather than vague quotes over the phone. One tip to avoid moving scams is to never pay the full amount upfront or in cash. I always insist on paying with a credit card or another traceable method, which offers some protection if things go wrong. Early on, I learned that trustworthy movers are transparent about pricing and licensing, so I verify their credentials with state agencies before booking. This careful approach has saved me from potential scams and ensured my moves were smooth and stress-free.
Ensure Proper Licensing to Prevent Scams
What's your go-to strategy for finding reliable movers who are both affordable and trustworthy? Share one tip for avoiding moving scams.
How I Locate Quality Movers and Packers:
There are certain tricks I employ when I start looking for dependable moving services. My first strategy is to use a combination of comprehensive research, client comments, and decent knowledge of the rules regarding local moving. "Solid word of mouth is key, number one. I usually begin by checking with my network -- friends, family members, and colleagues who've moved or employed movers recently. This can help to select good options right from the start. After I have a shortlist, I cross-reference every company online. Mediums such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and even social media pull real-time content from consumers who have had experience with these services. Furthermore, it's a good idea to verify that the company is a BBB member."
I know for myself, moving for a new investment was a great learning experience! Things were promising, but after some red flags in communication, I decided to tread carefully. After looking at some online forums and e-mailing one of their previous clients personally, I heard some discrepancies that could have led to a nightmare. I went with a mover who had a great website and efficient customer service, and -- long story short -- the experience was smooth and successful.
Avoid Companies That Want a Large Deposit:
A big sign of a moving scam is if a company demands a large deposit before they start their work, or if they only accept cash. Reputable movers will give a thorough estimate after either a home visit or a virtual tour — then they will bill you after they have completed the move. Typically, a moving scam will be perpetrated by a company that quotes the cheapest price on the market and then requires prepayment or buries additional fees in the fine print. Since you want to make certain you have a clear contract in place, avoid any company that doesn't spell out its rates or terms.
Use Realtor Recommendations for Reliable Movers
One essential step to avoid getting scammed by your movers is to make sure you're using a moving company that is licensed. Most jurisdictions require licenses for movers. This not only lets you determine if the movers you're considering are legitimate, but it also makes it easier to file complaints or even lawsuits if things go wrong.
