How to Choose a Moving Company
Moving is one of the few industries where an outright scam is a realistic risk. Here is how to verify a company and read the paperwork.
Most movers are legitimate. The minority that are not follow a recognizable pattern: a low phone quote, a large deposit, then a much higher price demanded once your belongings are on the truck.
Verify before anything else
- For interstate moves, confirm the U.S. DOT and motor carrier numbers on the federal registration database
- For in-state moves, check your state's licensing authority — requirements vary
- Confirm the company's legal name matches the name on the estimate
- Look for a physical business address, not just a phone number and a web form
- Read complaint records, not only star ratings
- Confirm whether they are a carrier doing the work or a broker reselling it — brokers are legal but you should know who will actually arrive
Estimate types
| Type | How it works | Risk to you |
|---|---|---|
| Non-binding | An estimate of charges based on expected weight | Final price can exceed the quote |
| Binding | A fixed price for the listed inventory | Added items change the price |
| Binding not-to-exceed | You pay actual charges or the estimate, whichever is lower | Lowest risk — ask for this |
Valuation is not insurance
Interstate movers must offer two levels of liability. Released value is included at no charge and pays a small amount per pound per item — under that standard, a damaged 10-pound television is worth a few dollars. Full value protection costs extra and requires the mover to repair, replace, or pay the current value of the item.
Check whether your homeowners or renters policy covers goods in transit, and consider third-party moving insurance for high-value items. Declare items worth more than a set threshold in writing before the move.
Paperwork that matters
- Estimate — signed, with the estimate type stated clearly
- Order for service — the services you agreed to
- Bill of lading — the contract; read it before signing on loading day
- Inventory — condition notes for each item; review these carefully and disagree in writing if you disagree
- Delivery receipt — note damage here before signing, not afterward
If something is damaged
Note it on the delivery paperwork before signing. File a written claim with the mover — interstate claims generally must be filed within nine months of delivery, and the mover must acknowledge within 30 days and resolve within 120. Photograph everything, keep the packaging, and do not discard damaged items until the claim is resolved.
Frequently asked questions
How much deposit should a moving company require?
Reputable movers typically ask for little or nothing up front, or a modest deposit. A demand for a large advance payment is a common warning sign.
Should I tip movers?
Tipping is customary in the United States. A common range is $20 to $50 per mover for a local move and more for long, difficult, or multi-day jobs.
Are moving costs tax deductible?
For most taxpayers, no. Current federal rules limit the moving expense deduction to certain active-duty military moves. Some states differ; consult a tax professional.
Editorial note. This article is educational and is not legal advice. Real estate contracts, disclosure requirements, and landlord-tenant rules differ by state and locality. Consult a licensed attorney about your situation.
