Cost
You need to balance reasonable prices with the services offered. Costs for a professional mover can vary from $1,200 up to $29,000, depending on how many miles you're moving and the size of your home.
To some extent, you want your full-service move to be "expensive." Maybe not "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" expensive, but pricey enough to feel confident your movers didn't skip steps that could lead to late delivery or damaged items. Check out our Moving Cost guide to see average prices by distance and type of move.
Binding estimates
Pay special attention to nationwide companies like American Van Lines that offer binding quotes. The guarantee means your price won’t change after signing on the dotted line—as long as you don’t have any major changes (like adding more items to the home inventory) that you and the movers agreed on during the quote process.
Affordable deposit
Many moving companies charge a deposit, which can be from 10% up to 50% of the total cost. Make sure to choose a company that matches your budget. If you pay a deposit, make sure you understand the policies if you need to cancel or change your move.
Customer service
Pay attention to how the company communicates with you when getting a quote. Ask what kind of communication to expect—and when—before you book. If you're moving on the weekend, consider a company that offers 24/7 customer support.
Perks
Look for companies like International Van Lines that go the extra mile by giving you 30 days of free storage. Other worthwhile perks include real-time GPS tracking, supplemental insurance, and special discounts.
Timelines
Depending on the company, moving timelines can vary based on the logistics of your move. If you need to have your move completed by a specific date, you may need to pay an extra cost for a guaranteed delivery date, so be sure to ask about that when you get quotes. Also, depending on your location, getting a guaranteed delivery date isn't always an option.
Carriers vs. brokers
Simply put, carriers have their own moving van fleets and in-house moving staff, while brokers coordinate with other companies. You should always check a company's licensing status and reputation before you sign a contract or pay a deposit. For more details, check out our article on the difference between moving carriers and brokers.
After narrowing down your top moving companies, you'll need to chat with a rep to get your final quote.
Here's how it works:
- Request a quote: Fill out the online form with basics about your move.
- Compare options: Your selected movers will email you details about their services so you can find the company that best meets your needs.
- Talk it out: Expect a call from a representative. They'll help you take inventory for your move, confirm dates, discuss extras like packing or storage, and finalize your quote.