How to Find a Professional Moving Company For Your Move in 2025
Find the best professional moving company for your 2025 move with expert tips on researching, comparing quotes, and ensuring a smooth relocation.
A reputable moving company does more than transport your belongings. They provide trained staff, the right equipment, and years of experience to ensure your possessions arrive safely.
Many people ask, how do I know if a moving company is reputable?
The answer lies in thorough research and understanding what to look for. Unlicensed or inexperienced movers may mishandle fragile items, overcharge you, or even disappear with your belongings.
Taking the time to find a reputable company ensures a stress-free move and protects your valuable items.
Start Your Search Early
One of the biggest mistakes people make when moving is waiting until the last minute to book movers. Professional moving companies are often booked weeks or even months in advance, especially during peak moving seasons like summer.
If you’re wondering how to find a reputable moving company, start your search at least two months before your move. This gives you enough time to compare different options, request quotes, and verify credentials.
Research Moving Companies Online
The internet is a powerful tool when searching for how to choose a moving company. Start by looking up movers in your area and reading customer reviews.
Websites like:
Better Business Bureau (BBB) – Check for accreditation and complaints
Google Reviews & Yelp – Look at customer feedback and ratings
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) – Verify licensing for interstate movers
Avoid companies with numerous complaints, hidden charges, or a history of poor customer service.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
A reputable professional moving company should have the necessary licenses and insurance. In the U.S., all interstate movers must have a USDOT number, which you can verify on the FMCSA website.
For local moves, check your state’s Department of Transportation or consumer protection agency to confirm licensing.
Why is Insurance Important?
Moving insurance protects your belongings in case of damage or loss. Ask the company about their insurance policies, including:
Basic liability coverage – Usually included but only covers a small percentage of lost or damaged items.
Full value protection – Costs extra but ensures full compensation for lost or damaged items.
A company without proper insurance is a major red flag.
Request Multiple Quotes
When learning how to find a professional moving company, always get at least three estimates from different companies. This helps you compare prices and identify any unusually high or low quotes.
Types of Moving Estimates
Binding Estimate – A fixed price based on the items and services required.
Non-Binding Estimate – An approximate cost that may change based on actual weight or services.
Binding Not-To-Exceed Estimate – You won’t pay more than the estimated cost, even if the weight increases.
Be cautious of companies offering extremely low prices, as this could be a scam or an indication of poor service quality.
Ask About Experience and Services
Not all movers are the same. Some specialize in residential moves, while others handle commercial relocations. When deciding how to choose a moving company, ask about their specific experience and services.
Key questions to ask:
How long have you been in business?
Do you offer full-service packing and unpacking?
Do you handle specialty items like pianos, antiques, or artwork?
Do you provide storage options if needed?
A reputable mover should provide clear and direct answers.
Watch for Scams and Red Flags
Unfortunately, moving scams are common. Many customers fall victim to dishonest movers who overcharge, hold belongings hostage, or fail to show up at all.
Red Flags to Avoid
No physical address or office
No written contract Large upfront deposits
Unmarked trucks or rental vehicles
No licensing information is available
If something seems off, trust your instincts and move on to another company.
Avoid Large Deposits
A common scam involves movers requesting large deposits before the move. A professional moving company typically asks for payment upon delivery, not upfront.
If a company demands a significant deposit, especially in cash, consider it a warning sign. Reliable movers accept payments via credit cards, which also provide fraud protection.
Read the Contract Carefully
Before signing anything, carefully review your moving contract. It should include:
Total cost estimate
Pickup and delivery dates
Insurance details
Extra fees (if any)
Never sign a blank or incomplete contract, as it could lead to unexpected charges later.
Ask for References
A trustworthy professional moving company should be able to provide references from past clients. If they hesitate or refuse, it’s a major red flag.
Contact previous customers and ask about their experience with the company. Did they deliver on time? Were there any hidden fees? Were belongings handled properly?
Consider Customer Service Responsiveness
Good communication is essential. If a company takes days to respond to your inquiries or provides vague answers, consider looking elsewhere.
Professional movers should be clear, responsive, and willing to answer any concerns before and during your move.
Check the Moving Equipment and Trucks
A legitimate moving company will have clean, well-maintained trucks and the right moving equipment, such as:
Furniture pads and dollies
Ramps and lifting straps
Proper packing materials
If movers show up in unmarked or rented trucks, this could indicate a lack of professionalism.
Understand Extra Fees
Some movers advertise low rates but add hidden fees later. Common extra charges include:
Long carry fees – If movers must carry items a long distance from the truck.
Stair fees – If they need to move items up/down multiple flights of stairs.
Fuel surcharges – Additional costs for long-distance moves.
Clarify all costs upfront to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Look for Professional Accreditations
Accreditation from organizations like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a good sign.
Companies with professional accreditations adhere to industry standards and ethical business practices.
Be Wary of Name Changes
Dishonest moving companies often change their names to avoid bad reviews. Before hiring, research the company’s history and check if they have gone by multiple names.
A reputable company will have a consistent name, address, and phone number over the years.
Trust Your Instincts
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. A reputable professional moving company will be upfront about pricing, services, and policies.
Trust your gut—if something doesn’t feel right, keep searching for a more reliable option.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to find a professional moving company, you can make an informed decision. Taking the time to research, compare quotes, and verify credentials will ensure a smooth and stress-free moving experience.
By following these steps, you’ll avoid scams, hidden fees, and unreliable movers. Whether moving locally or cross-country, hiring the right company is the key to a successful relocation.