close-up of a cardboard box with 'fragile' written on it
All photos: Ketut Subiyanto

Anyone who's ever moved understands the tiresome and stressful process involved. You must arrange and pack your personal items, and if you don't have the space for everything in your car, hire a mover. Unfortunately, many moving companies receive complaints ranging from failure to honor estimates, late arrivals, damage or loss of property, and charging more than agreed upon. Avoid the hassle and do your research before hiring a moving company. The five helpful tips below will help you with the process.

  • 1. Compare Moving Estimates


When looking for a moving company, request more than one estimate. This will help you compare and learn if you're getting a fair price. We suggest contacting between 3 and 5 companies to compare pricing.

This doesn't mean you should go with the cheapest mover. Comparing estimates is only the first step involved. If a mover is charging you $200 less than all the others, consider this a red flag.

Most moving companies with low rates may not deliver on their promises. On the other hand, some companies charge a little more and offer their services as promised. A company like Zoom Removals offers the best moving services at affordable rates. When learning what the going rate is for your move, consider the other factors listed below.

couple with cardboard boxes moving downstairs

  • 2. Licenses and Insurance


Many states insist that moving companies must be licensed to offer commercial or residential moving services. If you are moving from one state to another, you have to choose a company that’s licensed by The US Department of Transportation (USDOT).

Make sure you verify the licensing status of the company through the FMCSA's Protect Your Move Site, then request the mover's Department of Transport number. This number is necessary in case you need to file a claim. We hope this isn't the case, but it's smart to be prepared in case an issue arises.

Insurance is another crucial factor worth your consideration. Whatever you're doing, you never know what may happen along the way. Dealing with an insured company guarantees compensation in case your property gets lost or is damaged.

  • 3. Better Business Bureau Accreditation


Check whether the mover is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) – an international association that connects and supports trustworthy businesses. You can check the company’s track record, ratings, and reviews. Do this absolutely free on the official BBB website and do not with a moving company that’s not accredited by the BBB.

woman with a laptop and coffee cup in her hand is sitting on a cardboard box

  • 4. Experience


Experience matters a lot when it comes to moving, more so if you have many delicate and expensive household items or simply prefer as much privacy as possible. A moving company with many years of experience will be able to help you efficiently with the packing process to ensure everything arrives in good shape. 

Experienced movers, who value their reputation, should also help you with unloading and arranging the items in your new home. Some established moving businesses and local movers in Jacksonville also provide storage, crating, shuttle services, disassembly, and assembly services. Of course, they will keep your moving a private matter. 

  • 5. Check Online Reviews


You can rate a company by just looking at what people say about it. Online reviews come from people who have interacted with the company and can give you a clear view of what you can expect. So, before hiring a moving company, it would be a wise move to check what people say about it online. 

Blogs, forums, YouTube videos, Instagram feedback, and even tweets can be valuable sources of information for you. Naturally, it is in your interest to avoid a moving company with many negative reviews; if they're there, it's for a good reason!

Let's summarize...


Moving from one home to another can put your mental health under huge stress and pressure. You can add to this by choosing the wrong company. To avoid this, consider the factors discussed above. Choose a company with an affordable rate and a good track record. Above all, make sure the company is licensed and insured. 

If you don’t have time to look for a mover by yourself, you can ask for referrals from friends and family members who have sought the services of movers. Do your research to avoid hiring a mover that will add headaches to your already stressful move!

Lots of love,
Liz