Choosing a professional long-distance moving company is one of the most critical decisions for a successful relocation.
The right company can make the process smooth and efficient, while the wrong one can lead to stress, unexpected costs, and damaged belongings. To protect your move and your possessions, it's essential to do your homework before considering any other factors.
Before considering any other factors, confirm the company is a legitimate, licensed, and insured business. For any move that crosses state lines (an interstate move), the company must be registered with the Federal government. Ask for the company’s U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and use it to look up the company in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) online database. This search will show you the company's operating status, contact information, and complaint history; ensure the status is listed as "Authorized" for Household Goods.
It is vital to understand if you are dealing with a moving carrier or a moving broker. A moving carrier owns its own trucks and employs staff to physically handle your move and is directly responsible for your belongings. A moving broker is a sales company that arranges for transportation by selling your job to a separate carrier. While brokers must also be registered with the FMCSA, the quality of the carrier they hire can vary greatly. For clarity and accountability, working directly with a carrier is often recommended.
A company's track record is a strong indicator of its professionalism. Use the mover's USDOT number to check their complaint history on the FMCSA database. You should also look up their profile on the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Also, check for affiliations with professional organizations like the American Trucking Associations (ATA) Moving & Storage Conference. Membership in such groups often indicates a commitment to industry best practices.
Never accept a quote over the phone or online without a thorough survey of your belongings. Reputable companies will conduct a visual assessment, either through an in-home visit or a live video survey. During this process, be sure to point out everything that needs to be moved, as the more accurate the survey, the more accurate your estimate will be.
The type of estimate you receive will determine your final cost. Interstate movers typically offer three types:
Never sign a blank or incomplete contract. Before signing the bill of lading—which is the legal contract between you and the mover—review it carefully. It should include the mover’s name and USDOT number, the type of estimate, the valuation coverage you selected, agreed-upon pickup and delivery dates, and a detailed inventory of your belongings and services.
Moving companies offer "valuation," which is a set level of liability for your goods. They must offer two options:
Clarify what is included in your estimate. Discuss packing services, which may include full-service packing, fragile-only packing, or self-pack. Be aware that the mover's liability may be limited for items you pack yourself. Also, ask about potential extra charges for services like handling numerous stairs or the use of a smaller shuttle truck.
If your new home isn't ready, you may need temporary storage. Ask potential movers about their Storage-in-Transit (SIT) options. Verify the security of the facility and understand all associated costs for both the storage and the final delivery from the warehouse.
A smooth move relies on clear communication. Ask who your direct point of contact will be. Many reputable companies assign a dedicated move coordinator who can answer your questions, provide updates on your shipment's status, and help resolve any issues. A responsive and professional contact is a sign of good customer service and is invaluable during a long-distance move.