Last Updated on October 8, 2025 by Kravelv Spiegel
Moving to a new home can be both exciting and stressful. Between packing, organizing, and transporting everything safely, finding the right movers can make or break your relocation experience. Many people start their search looking for the cheapest moving service available, but choosing movers based on price alone can lead to frustration, hidden fees, or even damage to your belongings. Instead, you’ll want to find movers who are affordable and trustworthy — professionals who can handle your move efficiently, safely, and within budget.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key steps to choosing the right movers for your next relocation — from researching options to reading reviews and checking credentials.
1. Start with Research
The first step in finding the right movers is to research thoroughly. Begin by searching online for reputable moving companies in your area. Look for companies with professional websites, consistent branding, and clear contact information. A reliable mover will usually have customer testimonials and transparent details about their services, rates, and policies.
Pro Tip: Don’t just go for the first “cheap movers near me” you find. Compare at least three or four moving companies to get a sense of their pricing and professionalism.
2. Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance
Before hiring any movers, make sure they are licensed and insured. This is one of the most critical steps in avoiding scams and ensuring your belongings are protected.
- Local moves: Movers operating within a single state are usually regulated by state authorities.
- Interstate moves: For moves that cross state lines, check the company’s USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number. You can verify this on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website.
Insurance is equally important. Reputable movers offer liability coverage or full-value protection for your items. If a company doesn’t offer any insurance or avoids discussing it, that’s a major red flag.
3. Ask for Written Estimates
Always request written estimates from at least three different moving companies. Reputable movers typically provide two types of estimates:
- Non-binding estimate: The final cost may vary depending on the actual weight and services.
- Binding estimate: The price is fixed based on the agreed scope of work.
Avoid movers that give quotes over the phone without inspecting your items. A trustworthy company will either conduct an in-person survey or a virtual walkthrough before providing a detailed quote.
Watch out: If a company gives an estimate that’s significantly lower than others, it might seem like the cheapest moving service, but it could be a sign of hidden costs or poor-quality service.
4. Read Reviews and Ratings
Online reviews can reveal a lot about a moving company’s professionalism and reliability. Check platforms like:
- Google Reviews
- Yelp
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Trustpilot
Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback. Look for recurring themes such as punctuality, handling of fragile items, communication, and billing transparency. A few bad reviews are normal, but consistent complaints about the same issues are a red flag.
Tip: Focus on recent reviews — they reflect the company’s current service quality.
5. Verify Their Experience
Experience matters, especially when it comes to handling valuable or fragile items. Movers with years of experience are more likely to have well-trained staff, efficient processes, and quality equipment.
Ask these questions to gauge their expertise:
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have experience with long-distance or specialty moves (like pianos or antiques)?
- What kind of equipment and vehicles do you use?
A seasoned mover won’t just transport your items — they’ll know how to plan routes, manage time, and deal with unexpected challenges on moving day.
6. Evaluate Their Services
Not all moving companies offer the same range of services. Depending on your needs, look for movers who provide:
- Packing and unpacking services
- Furniture disassembly and reassembly
- Storage options
- Special handling for fragile or valuable items
If you’re short on time, a full-service moving company can take care of everything from start to finish. However, if you’re on a tighter budget, you can opt for a basic service where you do the packing and movers handle only transportation.
7. Ask About Additional Fees
One of the most common mistakes people make is ignoring potential extra charges. Movers may charge additional fees for things like:
- Carrying items up or down stairs
- Moving heavy furniture
- Long carries from the truck to your door
- Packing materials (boxes, tape, bubble wrap)
- Storage time or delayed delivery
Before signing the contract, ask for a detailed breakdown of all possible charges so you’re not surprised by a higher final bill. Transparency is a hallmark of a trustworthy moving company.
8. Confirm Availability and Flexibility
Good movers often book up quickly, especially during peak moving seasons (spring and summer). Once you’ve chosen a reliable company, schedule your move as early as possible.
If your moving date isn’t fixed, ask about flexibility. Some movers offer discounts for weekday or off-peak moves, which can help you save money without compromising on quality.
9. Check Their Equipment and Professionalism
When you interact with movers, pay attention to how they present themselves. Are their vehicles well-maintained and branded? Do the movers use the right tools — dollies, straps, and moving blankets?
Professionalism in appearance and communication often reflects how they’ll handle your belongings. Reliable movers are punctual, respectful, and transparent about timelines and responsibilities.
10. Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, go with the movers who make you feel comfortable and confident. If something doesn’t feel right — maybe they avoid direct questions, refuse to provide paperwork, or push for large upfront payments — it’s best to walk away.
Trustworthy movers value transparency, communication, and customer satisfaction. You’re not just hiring a service; you’re entrusting them with your personal possessions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right movers is about balancing cost, reliability, and peace of mind. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest moving service you find, the key is to look beyond price and focus on value — a company that offers fair rates, solid experience, and great customer care.
Take your time to research, compare, and verify credentials. With the right movers on your side, your relocation can be smooth, organized, and stress-free — letting you focus on settling into your new home with ease.
