HHM demand-led research
How to compare moving companies and estimates
A moving estimate is useful only when it describes the same belongings, services, access conditions, dates, and protection level. Begin by determining whether the move is interstate or within one state because the governing registration and consumer-protection rules differ. For an interstate move, distinguish the company that will transport the shipment from a broker that arranges service, verify both through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and compare written estimates after a physical or permitted virtual survey. The lowest initial price can become the most expensive choice when inventory, packing, stairs, long carries, storage, delivery windows, or valuation protection are unclear.
What matters first
- For interstate moves, verify the mover or broker’s legal name, U.S. DOT number, operating authority, insurance information, address, role, and complaint history using FMCSA resources. In-state requirements come from state or local authorities.
- Compare binding, non-binding, and binding-not-to-exceed estimates carefully. Every estimate should identify the shipment, services, pricing basis, extra charges, pickup and delivery terms, and the company responsible for transportation.
- A broker arranges transportation but does not move the goods. Obtain the broker’s carrier list and written terms, then verify the actual mover before loading day.
- Valuation is the mover’s contractual liability for loss or damage and is not automatically the same as ordinary insurance. Compare released-value and full-value options, exclusions, deductibles, claim procedures, and separate insurance if offered.
- Large deposits, cash-only demands, blank documents, sight-unseen verbal pricing, missing registration information, generic phone greetings, or last-minute identity changes are strong reasons to stop and investigate.
Verify before spending
- 1Create one room-by-room inventory with photos, estimated box counts, large or valuable items, items the mover will pack, and access details such as stairs, elevators, parking, long carries, storage, and delivery restrictions.
- 2Obtain at least three signed written estimates based on the same inventory and services; compare transportation, packing, materials, labor, access charges, storage, delivery window, payment method, cancellation, and valuation protection.
- 3For an interstate move, search every mover and broker in FMCSA’s database, match the name and U.S. DOT number across the estimate, website, vehicle, and bill of lading, and review the required rights booklet before signing.
- 4Read every page before signing, refuse blank or incomplete documents, keep copies of the estimate, order for service, inventory, bill of lading, valuation selection, receipts, photographs, and all written changes.
- 5At pickup and delivery, document condition and missing items, note exceptions on the inventory before signing, pay only under the written terms, and preserve claim or complaint deadlines and evidence.
Primary sources reviewed
Protect Your MoveFederal Motor Carrier Safety AdministrationSteps to Select a MoverFederal Motor Carrier Safety AdministrationMovers vs. BrokersFederal Motor Carrier Safety AdministrationUnderstanding Valuation and Insurance OptionsFederal Motor Carrier Safety AdministrationMoving fraud red flagsFederal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
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