Finding the right movers can make all the difference in your relocation experience. Follow these steps to ensure you choose a company you can trust.
Start your search for a moving company New Jersey by conducting thorough research. This step helps you distinguish reliable companies from those that may be less trustworthy.
Personal referrals are invaluable. Reach out to friends, family members, colleagues, or neighbors who have recently moved. Their firsthand experiences can provide crucial insights into a moving company’s reliability, professionalism, and service quality. A trusted recommendation can significantly speed up your decision-making process.
If your move is job-related, ask your employer for suggestions. They may have a relocation specialist or HR team who can recommend movers they’ve worked with before.
Don’t overlook your real estate agent's expertise, either. Agents often have extensive networks and can suggest dependable movers they’ve partnered with in the past.
Online reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau are a goldmine of information about moving companies. Spend time reading what previous customers say about the movers in your area.
Don’t let one negative review discourage you—every company receives occasional criticism. Instead, focus on patterns. Look for recurring themes in both positive and negative feedback to identify consistent strengths or potential issues.
Seek out detailed reviews that share how the mover handled specific challenges. The best moving companies often respond to negative reviews with solutions, showing a commitment to customer satisfaction and professionalism.
Legitimate moving companies should have proper licenses, insurance, and bonding to legally operate and safeguard your belongings during the move. Skipping this step could leave you vulnerable to losing valuable items without any financial compensation.
Start by requesting proof of licenses and insurance policies. For both local and long-distance movers operating across state lines, visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website to confirm their valid U.S. Department of Transportation number and FMCSA operating authority (MC) number. These identifiers should be visible on their trucks and promotional materials, but if not, the company’s representative should readily provide them.
Additionally, check with state or federal agencies to verify that the company is compliant with regulations and in good standing. Many states have specific licensing requirements for movers, so research what’s necessary in your area. Ensure that all licenses and certifications are current and valid.
Reputable moving companies must carry liability insurance to cover any damages or losses to your belongings during transit. Be sure to ask about the details of their policies, including deductibles, coverage limits, and the claims process in case of an issue.
Consider additional coverage options such as full-value protection or third-party insurance, which provide better security for your most valuable items. These options may come with higher costs, but they offer peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Trustworthy moving companies prioritize transparent pricing and accurate quotes. Avoid movers who offer binding estimates over the phone or online without conducting an in-home assessment, as remote quotes often lead to hidden costs and disputes.
Instead, insist on an in-home estimate. A representative should visit your home to conduct a thorough evaluation, which includes:
A detailed inventory of all items to be moved.
Identification of items requiring special handling (e.g., pianos, antiques, artwork).
An assessment of potential logistical challenges (e.g., stairs, elevators, parking).
Consideration of travel distance and additional transportation needs.
This detailed evaluation allows the representative to provide an accurate estimate tailored to your move.
After receiving the estimate, request a written contract or bill of lading that outlines all costs, services, terms, and conditions. This legally binding document protects both you and the moving company by setting clear expectations and reducing misunderstandings.
Read the contract carefully. Pay special attention to sections covering liability, insurance coverage, and the claims process for lost or damaged items. Reliable movers are transparent about their policies and procedures, ensuring you understand the terms before signing.
When searching for movers, apply the “rule of threes.” Don’t settle for just one estimate; get three. If the quotes are similar in pricing and services, you can feel confident about receiving a fair deal. However, if one estimate is significantly higher or lower than the others, it might signal hidden fees, subpar service, or price gouging.
During the in-home estimate, ask specific questions to assess the moving company’s professionalism, transparency, and expertise. Here are some examples to guide your conversation:
What is your claims rate for losses or damages over the past year?
How do you handle unexpected issues, such as severe weather or vehicle breakdowns?
Can you explain your process for packing, loading, and unloading items?
Do you offer additional services, such as packing/unpacking or storage solutions?
How do you handle claims for lost or damaged items, and what is the claims process?
How far in advance do I need to book your services?
What are your cancellation and rescheduling policies?
Pay attention to how the representative responds. Clear and confident answers indicate a professional company that values transparency and customer satisfaction.
When researching and interacting with moving companies, watch for warning signs of unprofessional or unethical practices. Some common red flags include:
Requiring large cash deposits or full upfront payment
No permanent business address or physical office location
Using personal email addresses or cell phone numbers as primary contact points
Refusal or inability to provide proper documentation (licenses, insurance, etc.)
Evasive or unclear responses to questions
Unprofessional behavior or appearance during the in-home estimate
If you encounter any of these red flags, continue your search for a reliable and professional moving company.
| Sketchy Operators | Trustworthy Movers |
|---|---|
| Require large upfront payments | Offer clear payment terms |
| No physical office location | Have a permanent address |
| Lack licenses or insurance | Provide full documentation |
| Vague responses to questions | Transparent and detailed answers |
| Unprofessional appearance | Present a professional demeanor |
We’ve discussed five key tips for selecting a moving company, but there are additional factors to consider. Here are more suggestions to help you make the best choice:
Ask About Customer Service Hours
Check if the company offers customer support outside of regular business hours in case of any issues during your move. This is especially helpful for long-distance or interstate relocations, providing added peace of mind.
Visit Their Office
If the moving company has a local office, consider visiting in person before hiring them. This visit can give you insight into their professionalism, how they conduct business, and the condition of their equipment or vehicles.
Ask About Temporary Storage Options
If you need to store your belongings temporarily between moves, ask about the company’s storage facilities and associated costs. This convenient add-on service can make your move smoother.
Check Membership in Professional Organizations
Reputable movers often belong to industry organizations like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). Membership in such groups shows a commitment to high industry standards and ethical practices.
By keeping these tips in mind and remaining vigilant throughout your decision-making process, you’ll improve your chances of selecting a reliable and professional moving company that can handle your belongings with care and ensure a smooth relocation experience.