Nobody said moving would be simple—but believe it or not—there are countless ways to make relocating easier than you ever imagined. And the best way to make moving a breeze is by hiring the best professional movers specializing in your area. However, now comes the question, “How to do I find great movers near me?”
Whether you’re looking to hire movers for a straight-forward local move, packing up to move long-distance or internationally, or something in between, follow these tips and you’ll be settling into your new house or office before you know it with less hassle than you ever imagined.
Find An Expert Specializing In Your Specific Move
Every move is unique. Maybe you need to move a piano from the top of a sixth-floor walk-up apartment to a high-rise across town. Do you have countless priceless valuables that need careful packing before moving into your new house? Or maybe you’re moving long-distance from one coast to the other—or even internationally.
Whatever it may be, ensure you research and find a moving company with verified experience in exactly what you need. For example, a reputable mover near you might be incredible when it comes to moving between residential properties but not when it comes to moving commercial properties or office spaces. Another might specialize in packing and storing antiques or fragile items but rarely move large items like pianos, billiard tables or aquariums.
Before hiring any mover—even if they have high ratings—always ask them up-front about their team’s personal experience when it comes to exactly what you need for your big move.
Compare Online Reviews About Your Top Moving Services
Now that you’ve found a few reputable moving companies nearby, use one of our two favorite tools to compare and contrast each service: the internet.
Just a few minutes online can provide invaluable information about local and long distance movers in your area. First off, check review sites like Yelp or Home Advisor for first-hand accounts by real clients. Avoid simply looking at the overall score (though this is helpful). Instead, spend more time reading the actual reviews.
While analyzing these reviews, especially seek out the ones describing moves similar to yours. How satisfied—or unsatisfied—were the customers? And if there are any poor reviews, is it a recurring problem? If so, you’ll likely want to choose another moving company altogether.
Get Recommendations From People You Trust
Our other favorite tool to find incredible moving companies near you is by talking with other people who have recently moved. Especially if they live in your area and/or had similar moves to yours, ask them whom they hired as a moving service and whether they were happy with the results. An internet review is wonderful. A raving endorsement from family, friends or a co-worker is even better.
If you do choose a moving company because of a referral, don’t forget to mention it. Every company loves hearing that its services are loved enough to be recommended to others—and it could lead to a little extra TLC for you during the move itself.
Ask For All Licensing, Proof of Insurance and Credentials
This step is crucial for the safety of yourself, your belongings and others. Any moving company worth considering must be completely up-to-date with all local, state and federal moving licenses, insurance policies, necessary credentials, etc.
Every locale might have different requirements so double-check exactly what that entails in your area. Then verify with potential moving services that they meet or exceed all requirements. Most moving companies list this information on their website, but if you can’t find it or have questions, don’t hesitate to call the company directly.
If there is any apprehension on the company’s part to prove they meet these standards, immediately nix them from the running.
Talk To The Team Directly
Any incredible moving company understands the stress of relocating. That’s why we suggest giving your top moving service a call directly before making that final decision. The team should be excited to answer any of your questions so you feel confident that they’re the right team for you.
Some questions we suggest asking potential moving companies include:
- Have you completed similar movers recently?
- How will you pack up my belongings?
- Are there any extra charges I should expect?
- Do you mostly make local or long distance moves near me?
- Are you fully licensed in our area?
- Do you specialize in more commercial or residential moves?
- What other services do you provide?
Whatever questions you might have, any great moving company will happily answer and put you at ease about the upcoming move. Any apprehension or disinterest should pop up as a red flag.
Now that you’ve talked to the moving team, asked all the correct questions and compared the right information, you’re officially ready to choose the perfect service for your next move. Happy moving!
