Man standing inside of a deliver van

Top 6 Tips on How to Find a Mover You Can Trust

Need help planning your move? Hire a moving company with the expertise to ensure a hassle-free move. When searching for a mover, you will likely meet many self-proclaimed experts who overpromise and underdeliver. To make sure that you find a reputable residential mover near you, we have prepared several tips for finding a moving company worthy of your trust.

Ask Friends and Family Members For Recommendations

If a friend or family member has recently relocated, ask them about their experience working with the provider. Also, ask them the following questions:

  • Were there any hiccups? Did the mover have a plan to manage them?
  • How well did the mover communicate?
  • Were you provided with a comprehensive estimate?
  • What steps did the mover’s crew take to prevent damage to items?
  • Will you hire the mover in the future?

Confirm That You Are Dealing With a Moving Company, Not a Broker

Before signing a contract, make sure you are getting into a service agreement with a moving company, not a broker. A moving broker is not licensed to transport goods. If you get into an agreement with a broker and your goods are damaged in transit, the moving broker and the moving company may try to shift the blame onto you. In addition, estimates from a moving broker can be grossly inaccurate.

Ensure the Mover is Licensed, Bonded, and Insured

Before hiring a residential moving company near you to manage your move, ensure it is registered with the federal government and has a USDOT number. You will also want to check if the mover carries insurance. Why, you ask? If you hire an uninsured mover and someone on their crew gets injured while working on your property, you may be held liable for damage and forced to foot the treatment bill.

Use Federal and State Resources to Ensure You Are Dealing With a Legitimate Business

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or FMCSA, has compiled a list of interstate movers. You can check out this list to verify a mover’s contact information. The database also provides other important information, such as whether the mover has a valid license and if there are any complaints against them.

Check the Movers’ Reputation

Visit the profiles of the movers you are considering on popular social media websites to see what their customers are talking about them. Go to reputable review sites such as Yelp and Yellow Pages to read customer reviews. Check the businesses with the BBB.

Compare Estimates

Get quotes from at least three movers. An estimate should include a breakdown of all the costs. When comparing estimates, check every cost element. Make sure you will be charged based on the weight of your cargo instead of the number of cubic feet it will occupy. Steer clear of companies that quote an unrealistically low price.

Schultz Brother Vans & Storage is a renowned residential moving company serving Sonoma County. Whether you are moving out of state or to another country, we have got you covered. To learn more, call  (707) 546-1616.