Here are our top 10 tips to ensure that you’re working with a professional, ethical mover:
1. Know who you’re dealing with — verify the mover’s identity.
Look for red flags that something may not be right, such as:
- No physical address or phone number online, just a “Contact Us” feature
- You’re quoted a very low price that seems too good to be true
- No federal motor carrier (MC) number is shown; or if there is an MC number, it doesn’t match with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) website
We make verification easy for you with our ProMover program, so always choose among companies displaying the ProMover logo for interstate moves. Or if it’s a move within your state, look for companies that are a member of your state’s moving association (where they exist). California has a state-level ProMover program.
2. Get at least three written in-home estimates.
Be wary of any “guaranteed” estimates offered over phone or online; instead, ask to have someone come to your home. Some movers also offer virtual home surveys that you can do yourself. Get more than one written estimate. If a mover insists that he can provide a “final” estimate over the phone without ever seeing your home and your furniture — choose another mover.
3. Check the company’s ratings.
Visit the Better Business Bureau, or other consumer websites such as Angie’s List, and ask family and friends for referrals.
4. Know your rights.
Your rights for an interstate move are spelled out in two federal government publications, Ready to Move? and Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.