Ready to stress less on your next move?
We have some great moving service resources and checklists for stress-free moving day below.
Moving house is one of the most stressful things you’ll ever do. Did you know that 82% of Americans who recently moved consider it stressful?
But there are strategies you can use that will reduce that stress. By researching, comparing options, and using a checklist you can eliminate most moving day stress.
In this post we cover all you need to know:
- The importance of Moving Services Comparison
- Strategies to finding a good moving company
- Tips on how to save money moving
- Red flags and scams to avoid
So keep reading for all the tips and resources to help you move stress free.
Moving Services Comparison: Why It Matters
Comparison isn’t just for finding the cheapest mover…
It’s about finding the right fit for you. There are over 25 million Americans moving each year so competition among moving companies is higher than ever. And that’s the problem:
There is huge variability in moving company quality.
Local moves and long distance moves require different resources and capabilities. Comparing the right companies to your moving situation creates a personalized solution.
Here’s why comparison is important:
The total moving industry will be worth over $110 billion dollars in 2024. That means new companies are entering the market. Some are great and some are awful. Comparing established moving companies vs newcomers to the moving business helps identify which movers have solid track records and which are only in it for the boom.
Would you buy a car without test driving first? Moving companies are no different.
Start With Your Moving Profile
Before you begin comparison build your own personal moving profile.
Think about:
- Move distance: local or long distance
- Home size: small to multi-story
- Special items needing extra care
- Budget: low to unlimited
- Timing: set date or flexible
The more specific you can be the better. This profile then becomes your baseline for choosing the right moving companies to compare.
Once you know what you need the next steps are simpler. Eliminate companies that are mismatched to your moving profile and compare only the most relevant ones.
Get Multiple Quotes
This is where a lot of people get tripped up…
Too few quotes or too many and you are wasting time. Aim for 3-5 detailed quotes from movers in your moving profile.
When asking for quotes make sure you compare apples to apples. Some companies will low-ball initial estimates and add fees later.
Always ask the right questions up front.
- Packing materials and labor
- Insurance coverage
- Fuel surcharges
- Storage fees
- Stair/long carry surcharges
The more specific you are the more accurate the quotes will be.
By the way, 80% of people move using do-it-yourself movers but only 20% of movers hire full-service moving companies. Professional full-service movers tend to have the smoothest experience.
Check Reviews and Credentials
Price is important but it is far from the only thing to consider.
A cheap quote is tempting, but if a company has poor reviews and no licensing then it will likely be a nightmare.
Look for:
- BBB ratings
- DOT number for interstate moves
- Recent positive customer reviews
- Complaint resolution
Pay special attention to the way companies are rated on how they resolve customer complaints and process damage claims. Negative reviews about poor customer service are a big red flag.
Pro tip… Read recent reviews in the past 6-12 months. Recent reviews provide the most accurate overview of a company.
Understand What’s Included
This is where comparison really shines…
Compare what is included in the base price. Some movers will advertise low rates but then tack on fees for every service. Others include a lot more in the quoted price.
Expect to see extra charges for:
- Packing supplies and labor
- Furniture disassembly/reassembly
- Appliance servicing
- Piano moving
- Elevator usage charges
Get everything in writing. A detailed contract is your best protection when it comes to knowing exactly what you are paying for.
Trick of the trade… The cheapest mover often ends up being the most expensive if you end up paying a bunch of hidden fees.
Consider Insurance
Insurance options and coverage don’t get enough attention…
Until something breaks and then it’s too late. Pay attention to these important details.
Moving companies typically offer two types of insurance.
- Released value protection – Only covers $0.60 per pound per item
- Full value protection – Covers the full value of an item or the cost of repair
Full value protection is obviously more expensive but you’ll rest easier during the move. Antique dresser gets damaged? You are covered for it’s full value.
Timing Can Save Money
Here’s a secret moving tip…
If you are flexible then time your move to off-peak times and save hundreds. Moving companies charge more when business is good.
When are the busiest times?
- Summer months: June-August
- Weekends, month-ends, and year-ends
- First and last week of the month
If you can move mid-week and in the slow seasons of fall and winter you’ll benefit from company discounts and big savings.
Additional Services Worth Paying For
Moving companies provide much more than just transporting boxes from A to B…
Additional services make your life easier and stress-free. Valuable add-ons that are worth the extra cost include:
- Storage solutions
- Packing services
- Specialty item handling
- Cleaning services
- Setup at your new place
All these services cost extra but pay off in time and stress saved.
If you are short on time before the move and don’t want to stress about cleaning, packing or setup then consider paying for these services.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Not all moving companies are created equal…
Some are great but there are definitely some companies to avoid. Spotting red flags and potential scams is important.
Major warning signs:
- Large upfront deposits requested
- No physical business address
- No company references provided
- Quotes significantly lower than the rest
- No insurance options provided
If it doesn’t feel right then listen to your gut. Don’t save a few bucks and suffer huge problems later.
Making The Decision
Gather all your information, take notes and make your choice…
Don’t go with the cheapest or first mover you find. Review all the information you have gathered.
Weigh all the factors:
- Total price
- Company reputation
- Services included
- Insurance
- Your gut instinct
The right company for you is not always the cheapest. Balance of price, services, and confidence in the company reputation all matter. Paying a little more now can avoid huge headaches later.
Planning for Success
Comparison isn’t just about finding the lowest price…
It’s about choosing the right moving partner to take care of your belongings and give you peace of mind. If you follow the tips above you can:
- Avoid common moving scams
- Get the best value for your money
- Reduce stress
- Have a safe arrival on moving day
Compare intelligently. Ask the right questions. Read reviews. Get detailed quotes. The time you spend now will pay off when your move goes smoothly.
Your stress-free move starts with smart decisions.
Further Reading
