What You Need to Do Before You Engage a Moving Company

Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a stressful experience. The key to a smooth move lies in preparation—and that starts long before you call a moving company. Taking the right steps beforehand can save you time, money, and countless headaches. Here’s what you need to do before you engage a moving company.

1. Define Your Scope of Moving

Before you even start comparing quotes, take a step back and assess what your move actually entails. Ask yourself:

• Are you moving locally or long-distance? Local movers often charge by the hour, while long-distance moves are priced by weight and distance.
• How much stuff do you have? Do a rough inventory of rooms, furniture, boxes, and specialty items like pianos or antiques.
• Do you need packing services? Some moving companies offer full packing, partial packing, or just loading and unloading.

Having a clear picture of your moving scope helps you avoid surprises when you get quotes.

2. Research and Vet Moving Companies Thoroughly

Not all moving companies are created equal. A little research goes a long way in avoiding scams or poor service. Here’s how to vet potential movers:

• Check licensing and insurance. For interstate moves, verify the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and has a USDOT number. Local movers should have state-level licensing.
• Read online reviews. Look at Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Pay attention to patterns—consistent complaints about damage, hidden fees, or late arrivals are red flags.
• Ask for references. A reputable company will gladly provide past client testimonials.

3. Get Multiple In-Person or Virtual Estimates

Never rely on a phone call or online form for a binding estimate. You want a moving company representative to see your belongings in person (or via a detailed video tour). This ensures accuracy and prevents last-minute price hikes. When getting estimates:

• Request at least three quotes from different companies to compare.
• Ask for a written, binding estimate that locks in the price. Avoid non-binding estimates that can increase on moving day.
• Understand what’s included. Does the estimate cover packing materials, furniture disassembly, and stairs? Clarify any potential extra charges, like fuel surcharges or fees for carrying items up multiple flights of stairs.

4. Declutter and Downsize

Moving is the perfect opportunity to lighten your load. The less you move, the less you’ll pay—and the easier your unpacking will be. Before you engage a moving company:

• Sort through every room. Create three piles: keep, donate/sell, and trash.
• Sell or donate unwanted items. Furniture, electronics, and clothing in good condition can go to local charities or online marketplaces.
• Dispose of hazardous materials. Moving companies cannot transport items like paint, propane tanks, cleaning chemicals, or batteries. Safely discard these beforehand.

A decluttered home means fewer boxes, a smaller moving truck, and a lower final bill.

5. Prepare a Detailed Inventory

Most moving companies require a detailed inventory list for insurance and pricing purposes. Create a spreadsheet or use a moving app to log:

• Item descriptions (e.g., “Queen bed frame, disassembled” or “Dining table, glass top”)
• Room location (e.g., living room, bedroom 2)
• Estimated value for high-ticket items like electronics, artwork, or jewelry
• Special handling notes for fragile or oddly shaped items

This inventory helps you track your belongings and ensures the moving company knows exactly what they’re handling.

6. Confirm Insurance and Liability Options

Moving companies typically offer several levels of protection for your items. Before you sign a contract, understand your options:

• Basic coverage (called Released Value Protection) is usually free but offers minimal reimbursement—often 60 cents per pound per item.
• Full Value Protection costs extra but covers the repair or replacement cost of lost or damaged items.
• Third-party insurance may be wise for high-value items like antiques or electronics.

Ask your moving company for a written explanation of their insurance policies, and read the fine print.

7. Plan for Moving Day Logistics

A little planning ensures moving day goes smoothly. Coordinate with your moving company about:

• Parking permits for the moving truck, especially if you live in a city or have a narrow driveway.
• Elevator reservations if you’re in an apartment building. Some buildings require advance booking and charge fees.
• Access routes — let the movers know about stairs, narrow hallways, and tight corners.
• Timing — confirm arrival and departure windows, and have a backup plan in case of delays.

8. Read and Understand the Contract

Before you sign anything, read the moving contract carefully. Look for:

• Full price breakdown — including base cost, additional fees, and payment terms.
• Cancellation or rescheduling policies — understand what happens if your plans change.
• Liability for damage — note the process for filing a claim if something gets broken.

If anything seems unclear, ask questions. A reputable moving company will be happy to explain.

Final Thoughts

Engaging a moving company is a significant decision that can make your move stress-free or chaotic. By taking these steps—defining your scope, vetting movers, decluttering, getting accurate estimates, and preparing for moving day—you’ll set yourself up for success. Remember, the best move is a well-planned one. Start early, stay organized, and choose a moving company that aligns with your needs. Happy moving!