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Choosing a moving company is one of the most important decisions you'll make during your relocation. A trustworthy mover ensures your belongings arrive safely and on time, while a rogue operator can cause damage, delays, and financial loss. This guide from AMSA covers everything you need to evaluate moving companies like a professional.

Start With Credentials

The first filter when evaluating a moving company should be their credentials. Legitimate movers carry specific licenses, insurance policies, and voluntary certifications that signal accountability and professionalism.

  • USDOT Number — For interstate moves in the US, every mover must have a valid USDOT number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Verify it at protectyourmove.gov
  • ProMover Designation — AMSA's certified ProMover program ensures companies have passed background checks, maintain insurance, and commit to a code of ethics. Search the ProMover directory to find certified movers
  • State Licensing — Many states require separate moving licenses. Check with your state's Department of Transportation or Public Utilities Commission
  • Insurance Coverage — All legitimate movers must offer at minimum released-value protection (60 cents per pound per item). Ask about full-value protection for comprehensive coverage
  • International Certifications — For international moves, look for FIDI FAIM certification, IAM membership, or BAR accreditation

Learn more about what these certifications mean in our Professional Moving Standards guide.

Red Flags: Warning Signs of Rogue Movers

The moving industry unfortunately attracts some unscrupulous operators. Knowing the warning signs helps you avoid costly mistakes:

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No Physical Address

Legitimate moving companies have warehouses and offices. If a mover only has a PO Box or won't disclose their location, walk away.

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Large Upfront Deposits

Reputable movers rarely require more than a small booking deposit. Companies demanding 30-50% upfront are often fraudulent.

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Phone-Only Estimates

Any company that quotes without seeing your belongings (in-person or video survey) will likely change the price on moving day.

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Dramatically Low Quotes

If one quote is 40-50% below the others, it's likely a bait-and-switch. They'll increase the price once your belongings are on the truck.

The Quoting Process: What to Expect

Getting accurate moving quotes is essential for budgeting and comparing companies fairly. Here's how the process should work:

1. Request In-Home (or Video) Surveys

Contact at least three moving companies and request on-site surveys. A trained estimator will walk through your home, note the volume of goods, identify specialty items requiring special handling, and assess access challenges (stairs, narrow hallways, elevator restrictions).

2. Understand Estimate Types

Binding estimate: The mover guarantees the total cost. You won't pay more than the quoted price, even if the actual weight exceeds the estimate. This is the safest option for consumers.

Non-binding estimate: The final cost is based on actual weight and services rendered. The price could increase if the shipment weighs more than estimated.

Not-to-exceed estimate: A hybrid where you pay the lesser amount — either the estimated price or the actual cost. This is ideal when available.

3. Compare Apples to Apples

When comparing quotes, ensure each includes the same services: packing, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking, furniture assembly, and insurance. The cheapest quote may exclude essential services that others include.

For more details on pricing structures, visit our Moving Cost Guide.

Questions to Ask Before Signing

  • How long have you been in business? (Look for 5+ years of operating history)
  • Can you provide references from recent customers?
  • What is your claims process and average resolution time?
  • Do you subcontract any part of the move to third parties?
  • What happens if my delivery is late? Do you offer guarantees?
  • Are your crews full-time employees or temporary labor?
  • What items do you refuse to transport? (Most movers won't move hazardous materials, perishables, or plants)
  • Do you offer storage if my new home isn't ready on the delivery date?

Choosing Movers for International Relocations

International moves add layers of complexity — customs clearance, freight logistics, and country-specific regulations. When moving across borders:

  • Choose a mover with specific experience in your destination country
  • Verify they have a network of partners or their own offices at the destination
  • Ask about door-to-door versus port-to-port pricing
  • Ensure they handle all customs documentation on your behalf
  • Confirm insurance coverage for the entire transit, including sea and air freight legs

If you're moving to the UAE, working with a professional Dubai moving company that understands local building regulations, NOC requirements, and customs procedures will save you significant time and stress.

For more destination-specific guidance, explore our International Moving Resources page.

After You've Chosen: Confirm Everything in Writing

Once you've selected a mover, protect yourself with proper documentation:

  • Get the final estimate in writing with all services listed
  • Review and sign the Bill of Lading carefully before moving day
  • Document the condition of valuable items before packing (photographs and written inventory)
  • Keep copies of all signed paperwork
  • Note the estimated delivery date range and the mover's contact number for transit updates

Reading customer testimonials and verified reviews is another important step. Read verified reviews to understand what real customers experience during their moves.

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