Choosing the right moving company can make or break your moving experience. From protecting your belongings to saving time (and your sanity), a trusted team of movers can reduce stress and ensure your transition is smooth. But not all moving companies are created equal.
Whether you’re moving across town or the country, this guide outlines what to look for in a professional mover. Think of it as your go-to checklist for making a smart, informed decision.
Licensing and Insurance
A reputable moving company should be fully licensed and insured. For interstate moves, that means a valid USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify this number through the FMCSA website to ensure the company is operating legally.
Insurance is equally important. It protects your belongings and your peace of mind, in case something goes wrong. Reputable movers like Gentle Giant carry the proper liability coverage and can walk you through your protection options before moving day.
Transparent Pricing and Estimates
A reputable mover should offer free, written estimates. Be wary of vague quotes or companies that avoid giving you an itemized breakdown.
Know the difference between:
- Binding estimates, which lock in your quoted price (common for local moves)
- Non-binding estimates, which can fluctuate based on actual time or weight (common for interstate moves)
- Hourly rates vs. flat-rate pricing (common for local moves)
Watch out for unusually low quotes; they may not include essential services or could come with hidden fees later on.
Reputation and Reviews
A company’s reputation is one of the most valuable indicators of reliability. Take time to read:
- Google reviews
- Yelp
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings
- Social media testimonials
Look for consistent themes across reviews, such as professionalism, punctuality, care in handling items, and positive customer service. Long-standing companies with repeat customers and strong community ties, like Gentle Giant, tend to have a track record you can trust.
Experience and Specialization
Years of experience can signal a well-run operation, especially if the company has a history of successfully managing moves similar to yours. If you live in a high-rise, have large or delicate items (like pianos or antiques), or are planning a long-distance move, it helps to work with a team that’s been there before.
Knowledge of local regulations, buildings, and parking rules is another bonus, especially in cities where logistics can get tricky.
Services Offered
Some moving companies only handle basic transportation. Others offer full-service options that can save you time and effort, especially for larger or more complex moves.
Look for services like:
- Packing and unpacking
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Temporary or long-term storage
- Specialized handling for items like art, gym equipment, or electronics
Always ask what’s included in the base rate, and which services may cost extra.
Professionalism and Communication
Timely, clear communication is a strong sign you’re working with professionals. A good moving company will:
- Respond quickly to phone calls and emails
- Provide helpful answers to all your questions
- Confirm logistics in writing
At Gentle Giant, our coordinators are trained to keep you informed at every stage of the process, from initial quote to move day and follow-up.
Availability and Flexibility
Moving dates don’t always go as planned, so flexibility matters. Confirm the company’s availability on your preferred date, and ask about their policies for rescheduling or cancellation.
Some companies can accommodate last-minute changes, while others may charge steep fees or have rigid policies. It’s worth clarifying this upfront.
Equipment and Fleet
You don’t need to be a moving expert to spot red flags in equipment. Clean, well-maintained trucks and professional-grade moving supplies (like dollies, pads, and straps) show that a company takes its work seriously.
If your move involves large or delicate items, make sure they have the right tools to handle them safely.
Contracts and Fine Print
Before signing anything, read the contract carefully. It should clearly outline:
- Pricing structure and included services
- Payment terms
- Cancellation and refund policies
- Liability coverage in case of damage
Don’t rely on verbal agreements! Make sure everything is in writing, and ask questions if anything seems unclear.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Unfortunately, not every company out there is trustworthy. Watch for warning signs like:
- Requests for large cash deposits up front
- No physical office address
- Unbranded or rented trucks
- Reluctance to provide written estimates
- Poor reviews or unresolved complaints
These issues could point to a lack of professionalism, or worse, a moving scam.
Hire the Best Moving Company
Hiring a professional moving company isn’t just about who can move your stuff; it’s about trust, transparency, and care. A reputable mover should be:
- Licensed and insured
- Clear with estimates and pricing
- Responsive and reliable
- Experienced with moves like yours
At Gentle Giant, we’ve built our reputation on those very qualities. With decades of experience, fully trained movers (never subcontractors), and services ranging from local moves to international relocations, we take pride in making each move a positive experience.
And don’t just take our word for it. Check out some of the awards we’ve won over the years, as voted by you!
Need help with your upcoming move? Get a free estimate or contact our team to learn how we can make your next move stress-free.