Do you know what's worse than moving? Finding a reliable moving company! – Said no one ever… But seriously, moving is already stressful enough without having to deal with the hunt for the right moving company.
It’s like searching for a needle in a haystack. From gathering quotes to figuring out who’s trustworthy, it can feel like a full-time job.
Did you know that moving companies in the U.S. collectively rake in over $22 billion each year?
So, with so many options out there, how are you supposed to find the best one?
Whether you're looking for local movers near me or need the big guns for long distance moving companies, we’re here to discuss it all down for you.
So, let’s start with a simple fact: Not all moving companies are created equal.
Some are top-notch professionals, while others... well, let’s just say they’re not the “best moving companies in USA” material.
But with the right knowledge, finding a reliable moving company near you can be easier than you think.
We have the tips and a step-by-step plan to help you move without breaking a sweat.
Stick with us, and by the end of this, you'll know exactly how to find moving companies near me that’ll have your back.
Step 1: Know What You Need Before You Start
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to moving. Not all moves are created equal.
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What you need will depend on a few things:
- How far are you moving? Are you looking for local movers near me or do you need long distance moving companies because you’re heading to another state or even across the country
- What are you moving? Moving a one-bedroom apartment versus a whole office or a mansion? The move size matters
- What services do you need? Are you just looking for someone to haul your stuff, or do you need some extra help like moving and storage services or specialized services like piano movers near me?
Local vs Long Distance
If you’re staying within the same city, you’re looking for local movers near me. These movers usually charge based on the time it takes to move your things and sometimes by the number of movers they send.
But if you’re going far, like cross-country or even to a different state, you’ll need to go for long distance moving companies.
These typically work with more formal contracts because logistics are involved, such as travel time, fuel costs, and more.
If you're moving farther than just across town, check out all the Long Distance Movers in the USA in one place and pick the right one.
Step 2: Start Your Search for Movers
Now, let's get to the main part: finding movers. The internet makes it easy, but it’s also a jungle.
You need a reliable company that won’t take advantage of you.
Here’s how to filter out the noise.
Ask Around: Seriously, don’t be shy! Ask friends, family, or even your neighbors. Word-of-mouth recommendations can be a goldmine. Someone’s bound to have a recommendation for the best moving companies in the USA that they trust.
Use Online Platforms: Websites like My Good Movers or Yelp are great tools for finding movers in your area. They let you see reviews and ratings and even compare the moves. Good reviews can really give you confidence in the movers you’re considering.
Don’t stress over moving —let the pros do it for you! Search for the movers in USA according to your needs.
Step 3: Evaluate and Compare Your Options
Okay, so you’ve got a list of potential moving companies. Now it’s time for the next step, "evaluation.".
Licensing and Insurance: Don't even think about hiring a mover that's not properly licensed. In fact, licensing and insurance should be non-negotiable for commercial moving companies.
They need to be registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and have the right type of insurance in case anything goes wrong.
Experience: Don't hire a mover with zero experience. Ask how long they've been in business. A reputable company will be happy to share its history and experience, especially with moves similar to yours.
For example, if you have a lot of fragile furniture, you'll want to look into furniture movers near me.
Customer Reviews: Check out the reviews and ratings online, but don’t just look at the stars. Read the actual feedback.
If the company has lots of positive reviews about being on time and careful with belongings, that’s a good sign.
Hidden Fees: Watch out for movers who give you a low initial estimate and then charge hidden fees once you've committed.
A good mover will be upfront about everything. If they quote you an unusually low price, you might want to think twice.
Step 4: Get Multiple Quotes (and Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions)
At this point, you’ve narrowed it down to a few moving companies. Now, it’s time to get quotes.
Don’t settle for just one — you want to compare pricing to make sure you’re not getting ripped off.
When you ask for a quote, make sure you give them all the details.
- The size of your move: How many rooms or square footage are you moving?
- Special needs: Do you need piano movers near me or extra storage space for your stuff? Make sure to mention that.
- The date of your move: The time of year can affect costs, especially if you're moving during peak seasons (like summer). So, if you’re looking for affordable moving services in the USA, this is something to keep in mind.
Pro tip: Some companies offer free estimates over the phone or online, but for a truly accurate quote, I recommend getting an in-home estimate. This way, they can see the size of the job and give you a more precise number.
Your perfect moving company is just one click away. Get a Quote and make your move smooth and simple!
Step 5: Finalize Your Move and Prepare
Now that you’ve selected the perfect moving company, it’s time to get ready. Before your moving day arrives, here’s what you need to do:
Declutter: The more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be. Go through your things and donate or sell anything you don’t need.
Label Boxes: This sounds basic, but trust me, you’ll thank me later. Labeling your boxes with the room and contents will save you time and stress on the day of the move.
Confirm the Details: Double-check the date, time, and any special arrangements with your movers.
Extra Services You Might Need
There’s no shame in needing extra help when moving, so don’t be afraid to ask for additional services. Here are some you might want to look into:
Moving and Storage Services: If you need a place to stash your things for a bit before settling into your new place, ask if the company provides storage options.
Furniture Movers Near Me: Moving heavy furniture can be tricky. If you’ve got a big couch or an antique dining table, you might want to find a mover that specializes in this.
Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring a Moving Company
After following the above steps, you've finalized a moving company, and now you're just going to secure the deal.
But before you do that, put on your detective hat and look for red flags.
There are some sneaky movers out there who are ready to pull a fast one. So, let’s go over the major red flags that could save you from a nightmare move.
Unusually Low Estimates
If a moving company gives you a super low estimate without seeing your stuff, be cautious. They might hit you with surprise charges later. Always get a written, detailed estimate after they’ve seen everything you’re moving.
Lack of Licensing or Insurance
Make sure your mover is licensed and insured. If they can’t show you proof, they’re likely not legit. Movers who aren’t properly licensed could leave you in a bad spot if something goes wrong.
No Written Contract
A moving company that won’t provide a clear, written contract is a huge red flag. The contract should outline everything, from the moving date to what’s included in the price. If they don’t offer this, walk away.
Asking for a Large Upfront Deposit
If they demand a huge deposit or full payment upfront, it's a scam. Legit companies only ask for a small deposit. Pay after the job's done once your belongings are safely delivered.
Unprofessional Behavior
If the movers are hard to reach, rude, or show unprofessional behavior early on, they'll likely be the same on a moving day. Good movers keep you informed and act professionally from the start.
If you're concerned about hiring a shady company, don't worry! Learn how to spot rogue movers and ensure you're hiring a legitimate team.