Guide: How to Choose a Moving Company

All reputable moving companies fall into these three categories.
Broker/Brokerage – these companies work with third-party movers. This means the company you hire may not be the company that shows up on moving day. A broker company may result in cheaper moving costs, but it can also cause more miscommunication during the moving process.
Carrier – moving companies handle every aspect of your move from start to finish. The company you hire is the company that shows up, which streamlines moving and communication. This option may cost a little more overall, but the cost is worth an easier moving experience.
Broker/Carrier Hybrid – a broker/carrier hybrid company handles most of the moving process in-house though they usually outsource specialty moving services like piano transport.
This is an important question to ask so you know who will be showing up with the truck come moving day.

Moving companies typically charge per hour for local moves and by weight or cubic feet for long-distance moves. To get an accurate price estimate for your move, the movers need to take accurate inventory of your belongings. From there, they will give you a price estimate based on how long the move will take or how much you are moving. Be sure to carefully look over this price estimate to ensure there aren’t major discrepancies on the estimated moving time and price.

Understanding different types of moving estimates (binding vs. non-binding) is critical when reviewing your quote. When a moving company gives you a price estimate, ask whether that price is guaranteed (binding) or subject to change based on final time and weight (non-binding). Some moving companies will give one price during the estimate to earn your business, then tell you a different price on moving day. If the price estimate is binding, your moving costs shouldn’t go up unless your moving plans change at the last minute.

If you are quoted a binding long-distance price based on weight, know that it’s possible for the price to change on moving day simply because weight can be difficult to accurately pinpoint. If a moving company gives you a binding price estimate based on weight and the cost changes through no fault of your own, a reputable company will take responsibility for the additional changes.

Moving costs vary from company to company based on how moving costs are calculated. The most common factors affecting price are:
- Hourly labor
- Seasonality
- Moving distance
- Amount being moved
- Level of service
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage, if needed

Naturally, sometimes plans change and the move you were planning on doesn’t happen. Asking about cancellation options provides peace of mind in the event that you don’t end up moving.

Watch out for several key warning signs, including demanding large upfront cash deposits, offering quotes without an in-person or virtual home walkthrough, operating without verifiable USDOT or state license numbers, using unmarked rental trucks, and refusing to provide a signed written contract prior to moving day.

To compare moving company quotes effectively, ensure you are evaluating identical inventory lists and service scopes across each estimate. Look closely at the quote structure (binding versus non-binding), verify whether line items like fuel surcharges, packing materials, travel time, and valuation coverage are included, and balance the bottom-line price against each company's reputation and crew credentials.

Look for movers with specialized white-glove experience and full-time, professionally trained crews rather than temporary labor. Ensure they use high-grade protective packing materials, follow strict handling protocols, and have a proven track record of safely transporting fine art, antiques, and delicate furnishings.

Check client testimonials on the mover’s website, along with ratings on independent platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for detailed feedback and consistent praise across these platforms regarding crew punctuality, clear communication, and careful handling of belongings.

Overall pricing depends primarily on whether your move is local, which is typically calculated using hourly crew rates, or long-distance, which is based on total shipment weight and mileage. Total costs also vary depending on home size, peak season demand, optional packing services, and specific access challenges such as stairs or long walking distances.

Yes, you can request a quote online by filling out a form on the moving company's website with your basic details. Companies like White Glove Moving then schedule a virtual or in-person walkthrough of your home to assess your inventory and property access before providing you with a final estimate.

Verify that the company holds valid legal credentials, such as active USDOT registration or state licensing, and check for consistent feedback across platforms like Google, Yelp, and the BBB. Reliable movers also employ background-checked crews, provide clear written estimates, and maintain a verifiable physical location.

A licensed mover holds active registration with federal agencies such as the USDOT or state regulatory bodies, binding them to legal standards and dispute resolution requirements. An unlicensed mover operates without government oversight, leaving you with little to no legal recourse or regulatory support if disputes, missing inventory, or hidden charges occur.

For interstate moves, search the company’s USDOT or MC number on the website at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov to verify both active operating authority and liability insurance status. For moves within the same state, check registration through your state Department of Transportation or ask the mover directly for a Certificate of Insurance.