How to Hire Movers in Six Steps
Compare estimates, ask key questions and plan ahead for a smooth and successful move.
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Hiring professional movers can make relocating easier — but only if you choose wisely. The right company saves time, protects belongings and keeps your move on track. This guide covers how to hire movers, from choosing the right type to asking smart questions before you sign.
1. Decide what type of moving company you need
Not all moves are the same. Clarifying your specific needs can help you compare the right companies and services they offer.
Local movers. Best for moves within 100 miles. They usually charge hourly and work well for less-complicated moves.
Long distance movers. Handle interstate or cross-country relocations, charging by weight, volume and distance.
International movers. Manage overseas moves, including customs requirements.
Some moving companies also offer specialty services for transporting oversized, fragile or valuable items. This could include moving pianos, hot tubs, boats, fine art or antiques.
2. Determine the level of moving help you require
Consider your budget and how much of your move you’re willing and able to handle yourself.
Full-service movers can handle everything — packing, loading, transporting, unloading and unpacking. They’re best for people willing to pay more for convenience. Some full-service movers also let you opt in or out to customize services. For example, you might choose to handle packing yourself to reduce moving costs.
Self-service movers put more of the work on you, typically at a lower cost. Do-it-yourself container moving companies (like PODS or U-Pack) drop off large containers that you load and they transport. Some companies use a freight trailer instead. “Labor only” options are available too; you hire movers to load or unload a rental truck or moving container while you take care of or arrange the transport.
» MORE: Hiring movers vs. DIY
3. Research and vet moving companies
Once you know the kind of mover and help you need, start building a list of candidates. Here are some ways to narrow your choices.
Search the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website, which provides information about moving companies. Here you can verify a mover’s U.S. DOT number, which interstate moving companies must have to operate. You’re also able to see a company’s complaint history, fleet size and safety ratings.
For a local or in-state move, check with your state’s Department of Transportation or state movers association (if you have one) to find out licensing requirements and whether a tool exists to research companies.
For an international move that involves shipping household goods or a vehicle, make sure the company is licensed through the Federal Maritime Commission.
Investigate a company’s reputation. Ask friends, family or your realtor for recommendations. Check online reviews and ratings, and search for complaints filed with the FMCSA or Better Business Bureau.
4. Request and compare quotes
Don’t settle for an estimate from the first moving company you talk to.
Get several written estimates to compare pricing for the exact services you need. Avoid companies that want to provide an estimate without doing an on-site survey of your belongings.
Make sure the company clearly identifies which services or items are included in the base estimate and which will cost additional.
Requesting quotes can also reveal how transparent and responsive a mover is.
Comparing estimates section by section can help you spot omissions or hidden charges.
5. Review the moving company’s liability coverage
Moving companies provide coverage for items that are damaged or lost during a move, but it isn’t actual insurance or regulated as such. By law, interstate movers must offer two options.
Released value protection. Free coverage based on item weight, so reimbursement for expensive items could be minimal.
Full-value protection. Coverage your pay for that requires the mover to repair, replace or reimburse you for the item’s actual value.
Coverage differs from one company to the other, so always ask movers to explain theirs. Also, some moving companies partner with actual insurance providers that offer broader coverage at a cost.
6. Reserve a mover
Once you’ve asked questions and chosen a mover, it’s time to book your move. You will sign an order for service to confirm your reservation, but this is not your legally binding contract.
At least three days prior to loading, moving companies are required to give you a bill of lading. When signed, the bill of lading is your legally binding contract, so check it for accuracy or omissions before signing. It should outline all of the specifics about your move — such as pickup and delivery dates, payment terms, motor carrier contact information and proof of any insurance your purchases. Never sign a bill of lading with blank spaces or vague wording, or any terms that don’t match your understanding of the agreement.
Also, interstate moving companies are required to give you an FMCSA publication called "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move." And, once your items are loaded, expect to receive an inventory list of your belongings (important for loss or damage claims) that you’ll sign and date.
Key questions to ask a moving company.
The best way to avoid unpleasant surprises when hiring a moving company is to ask direct questions before you hire them.
1. What services do you offer?
Ensure upfront that the companies you’re considering offer all of the services you will need. Also ask about any items a moving company won’t move.
2. What services will result in extra fees?
If a service isn’t specifically listed in your estimate, don’t assume it’s included or won’t cost extra. Common items with an extra fee include packing supplies, carrying up stairs or long distances, furniture assembly and fuel.
3. Is your estimate binding or nonbinding?
Binding estimates protect you from companies that entice you with a low price and raise it later. A binding estimate ensures your price won’t increase as long as you don’t add items at the last minute.
4. How do you calculate costs?
Movers may charge by hour, weight or distance — and seasonal demand can affect pricing.
5. Is your company a broker or carrier?
Some “moving companies” are actually brokers that outsource to carriers. If a different company will be moving your belongings, ask for its name and FMCSA number so you can research it.
6. What’s your cancellation policy?
If there’s any possibility your moving plans could fall through, ask how far ahead you must cancel and what costs or fees you will be liable for.
7. What liability coverage do you offer?
Ask for written details that include terms, coverage, cost, exclusions, the claims process, required documentation and resolution timelines.
8. Will your full-time employees or a subcontractor handle my move?
Find out if those responsible have had background checks and are covered by workers’ comp.
9. Can you guarantee delivery dates?
Most moving companies provide delivery windows, but if you need your belongings by a certain day, ask about a guaranteed delivery date. Get such a guarantee in writing and how much you should expect to pay for it.
10. What forms of payment do you accept?
Not all companies take credit cards, and those that do may charge a convenience fee or accept them only for deposits. A partial deposit is normal, but avoid movers that demand cash or a large upfront payment.
Final thoughts on how to hire movers
The best moves start with planning. Define your needs, compare companies and get every detail in writing. These steps help you control costs, protect belongings and reduce stress so you can focus on settling into your new home.