Hiring a Moving Company: A How-to Guide

Finding the right mover can be daunting. With so many moving companies, how do you know whom to trust? There are tons of options, from big names to small mom-and-pop operations. Some have decades of experience, while others are just starting out. Picking the right mover won’t just happen. It will take a bit of research as well as a few guiding principles.  

At United Van Lines, we want to make your move as easy and worry-free as possible. Here are some tips and guidelines for finding the best moving company for your unique needs. 

Understand All Services and Associated Costs 

Moving companies can offer a wide variation of service levels, from basic to comprehensive. For example, a full-service, long-distance mover such as United can provide packing and unpacking, storage, debris removal, vehicle transport and other options according to your needs and preferences. Moreover, we will help you customize your move in a way that works best for you. 

Get Recommendations From Friends, Family and Others  

Satisfied customers are the best endorsement for any long-distance mover. You can also check review sites such as Yelp and Angi, as well as local realtors and contractors. After all, these types of businesses work with movers all the time. 

Check Your Mover’s Credentials 

You can verify movers’ licenses and years in business on sites maintained by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). With these credentials in hand, you can reference the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to see if a mover is federally licensed for interstate moving. If this top-level research turns up any red flags, proceed with caution. 

Understand Your Move Estimate  

Reputable movers like United will never give you a quote without an in-person or virtual survey of your home and possessions. That said, you should also be aware of the two types of estimates your mover could provide:  

• A non-binding estimate is a mover’s estimate of the moving costs when your in-home survey was conducted. Final moving charges will be based on the mover’s published rate schedule for the actual weight of the shipment and services provided. Aside from additional services requested by the customer or required due to delivery location circumstances, the mover cannot require payment over 10% of the original estimate before delivery. Any overages or refunds are due within 30 days of final delivery.  
• A binding estimate guarantees the price for all services described in the estimate. If extra services (such as unpacking) are requested after loading begins, or required due to delivery location, the mover can require payment for those services plus the full estimate amount before delivery. Any other charges due must be paid within 30 days of final delivery. 

Understand What Valuation Protection Means 

A valuation option determines the maximum liability for any loss or damage caused by your mover. Liability is based on mover rate schedules, federal laws and regulations, and there are certain limitations and exclusions. All interstate movers are liable for transported goods, no exceptions. There are different liability levels, so understanding their differences is important. 

• Full (Replacement) Value Protection: United’s default option provides the most comprehensive coverage and it’s part of every initial estimate. If an item is lost, damaged or destroyed while in mover custody, the mover is liable for up to the replacement value. Movers can settle claims by repair, replacement, or payment. Liability is limited to a declared shipment value minimum of $6,000 or $6/lb., whichever is greater. Extremely valuable items over $100/lb. require specific listing. There is a charge for this, so be sure to consult movers with any questions. 
• Alternative Level of Liability: This no-cost option provides less coverage, only 60 cents/lb. for each individual item. Alternative coverage could be risky without insurance or the ability to self-replace. For example, a 100 lb. item worth $5,000 would only be reimbursed at $60 (100lbs x $0.60). This is why experts recommend full coverage, if possible, especially for households with many high-value items. 

Don’t Fall Victim to Moving Scams 

Every year, thousands of American households are affected by fraud in the interstate moving market. Often criminals posing as legitimate movers offer low initial estimates, then hold a customer’s possessions hostage until receiving additional payments. To avoid becoming victims of these or other moving scams, be aware of the following red flags: 

• No Physical Address: Verify listed addresses on websites and in phone books to ensure your mover has a local office. Just a Post-Office box or no street address could indicate an illegitimate business.  
• No Walkthrough: Be wary of movers who do not conduct thorough visual assessments. Reputable companies will request walk-throughs to accurately assess item values before providing estimates, which helps avoid unexpected extra fees later. 
• Hidden Fees: Trustworthy movers outline all anticipated expenses upfront.  
• Changing Business Names: While name changes don’t prove fraud on their own, they could be done to avoid regulatory oversight. Check websites, addresses, proper licensing, and full company identification when calling. 
• Verbal or Blank Contracts: Insist upon a written agreement encompassing all aspects of the move. 

If you’ve been scammed, seek help. You can find tips and resources through MoveRescue, an industry-endorsed program providing moving education and anti-fraud support.  

Is a Cross-Country Move in the Works?     

Why not let a professional moving company, United Van Lines, take care of the heavy lifting? United’s full-service moving packages provide flexibility to mix and match the services you want and need, from packing and unpacking to standard furniture placement.        

Get a cross-country moving quote from United Van Lines today.        

Want to get ahead of planning your move? Check out our week-by-week moving checklists and packing tips. If you prefer access to these pro-tips on-the-go, our exclusive House Key magazine is for you.   

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