Every moving company website seems to use the same stock photography. You see the smiling couple high-fiving over a sealed box, or a pristine truck driving down an empty highway, whether you’re browsing a local provider or a national chain such as Roadway Moving. When the marketing looks identical, telling the difference between a solid mover and a mediocre one can be frustrating.
That’s why first impressions are not enough. To make a smart decision, you need to look past the visuals and focus on how the company actually operates.
Check Federal and State Licensing
Legitimate movers must register with the government. For moves that cross state lines, the company needs a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can input this number into the FMCSA database to see their safety rating, fleet size, and complaint history.
Local moves might require state-specific licenses depending on where you live. Ask the sales representative for their license numbers and verify them independently. If a company hesitates to provide this information, it is a major warning sign that they are operating illegally.
Confirm Insurance Capabilities
Professional companies carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation. This protects you if a worker gets injured in your home or if your property causes damage to the building.
Many apartment complexes require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before they will allow a moving crew to use the elevator. If a mover cannot produce a COI within a day or two, they likely do not have adequate coverage. This puts you at significant financial risk if an accident occurs during the load-in or load-out process.
Dig Into Reputation and Reviews
Online feedback offers a window into the customer experience, but you must read critically. Look for patterns in the complaints rather than focusing on the star rating alone.
If you are specifically looking for reliable NYC movers for a complex job, check if previous clients mention how the crew handled parking tickets or fifth-floor walk-ups. These specific details reveal if the crew understands the logistics of your specific area. Generic praise is easy to fake, but detailed stories about how a problem was solved usually come from real customers.
Compare Written Estimates Carefully
A quote given over the phone is rarely accurate. You need a binding estimate based on a visual survey of your home, either in person or via video chat. This guarantees the price will not change unless you add more items.
Established teams prioritize detailed inventory lists to ensure the final price matches the initial quote. When you compare numbers, look closely at what is included.
Understand Valuation Coverage
Most people assume their belongings are fully covered, but standard limited liability only covers 60 cents per pound per article. If a crew drops your expensive flat-screen TV, that coverage might only pay out enough to buy a generic replacement cable.
Ask about Full Value Protection. This option costs more upfront, but it ensures the mover must repair or replace damaged items at their current market value. Deciding between these options depends on your risk tolerance and the value of your furniture.
Watch for Payment Red Flags
How a company asks for payment tells you a lot about their professionalism. Most reputable businesses accept credit cards, which offer you fraud protection. Be very wary of any service provider that demands a large cash deposit upfront before they schedule your date.
While a small deposit to reserve a slot is normal, demanding full payment in cash before the truck arrives is a common tactic used by fraudulent operators. Stick to companies that use transparent and traceable payment methods.