Hiring a long-distance moving company is one of those decisions that can either make your relocation smooth or introduce avoidable stress and cost. With thousands of dollars on the line and your belongings crossing state lines, knowing how to choose a mover is downright necessary.
Start With Their Legal Standing
Movers transporting goods across state lines must have active USDOT and MC numbers that you can look up. These numbers must be visible on the company’s trucks, website, and all relevant paperwork.
You can quickly verify them through the “Protect Your Move” database maintained by FMCSA, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. It is essential that these numbers are not just active but also match the company name.
Clarify whether you’re engaging with a broker, a carrier, or both. Brokers don’t handle your property; they arrange transport through licensed carriers and must disclose the name of that carrier. Importantly, any quote provided by a broker must be based on the carrier’s official pricing structure, known as a tariff.
Licensing Doesn’t Reflect Performance
A company can be properly licensed and still have a troubling track record; that’s why checking their history is just as important as confirming legal status. The FMCSA’s National Consumer Complaint Database and the Better Business Bureau (BBB), are both valuable resources that provide insight into patterns of behavior.
For instance, in 2023, the FMCSA’s “Operation Protect Your Move” responded to 494 complaints involving hostage situations or price hikes, all of which were traced to just 142 companies labeled as high-risk. Over 100,000 BBB inquiries were made about movers in 2024 alone, leading to 718 formal complaints.
While not all of these involve scams, many cite last-minute price increases as a concern. Star ratings don’t tell the whole story, which is why reading through customer reviews can reveal whether those pricing complaints are isolated incidents or part of a larger trend.
Know The Difference Between Estimate Types
Before signing anything, understand what kind of estimate the company is offering. There are usually two categories of moving estimates: binding and non-binding.
A binding estimate assures the price upfront, meaning you’ll pay that amount unless you add services in writing. So, if the mover underestimates the weight, it’s their financial responsibility. A non-binding estimate is simply a rough guess at what your move might weigh.
Know Your Valuation & Insurance Options
Under federal law, movers must offer two levels of valuation coverage. The default is Released Value, which covers your belongings at 60 cents per pound. While included at no cost, it provides only minimal protection.
If you’re moving valuable items, consider getting Full Value Protection. You’ll declare the total value of your goods and pay a premium, usually around 1% of that amount.
Make sure to ask detailed questions about deductibles and how individual high-value items are covered. Some may need to be itemized in advance.
Warning Signs That Should Raise Doubts
Some behaviors should stop you dead in your tracks. If a mover asks for a deposit larger than 20% or demands full payment before the move, think twice. Reputable companies typically collect payment at delivery, not upfront.
Avoid any company that refuses to give its DOT or MC numbers or won’t provide a written estimate. Quotes provided without an in-home or virtual survey are another red flag to consider.
These often rely on weight estimates that are too low, setting the stage for higher charges later. If a price sounds far below competitors’, be cautious. The BBB and other industry watchdogs regularly report bait-and-switch tactics behind these too-good-to-be-true deals.
Questions Worth Asking Before You Commit
Before signing a contract, again, make sure to ask whether the company is a broker, a carrier, or both. You should also confirm whether your quote is binding and how long it will remain valid.
Clarify precisely what services are included; does the quote cover packing, disassembly, fuel, and protective materials?
Other good questions to consider: Will subcontractors be involved? What are the company’s damage and on-time rates for similar moves? What is the claim process if something goes wrong?
Ways To Save Without Cutting Corners
You can control costs without sacrificing quality. Booking 6 to 8 weeks in advance provides better access to peak season availability and pricing. Additionally, mid-month and mid-week moves typically cost less, as demand is lower.
Cutting down on heavy or bulky items can also reduce your cost, as interstate move pricing is still driven by weight.
Making The Right Move Comes Down To The Right Questions
Hiring long-distance movers involves more than picking the lowest quote; it’s about verifying credentials, asking pointed questions, knowing your rights, and recognizing red flags before they become costly problems. When you’re well-informed, you’re better equipped to protect your time, money, and peace of mind during one of life’s most significant transitions.
At MG Moving Services, we’ve built our reputation by doing things the right way, from providing accurate estimates to maintaining clear communication and delivering dependable service across the East Coast. Get a free moving quote online or give us a call at (888) 707-7709 to talk about how we can make your next move easier.