How to Find the Best Moving Company for Your Clients

When it comes to helping your client’s move go smoothly, it’s important to take the time and do some research before you recommend a particular moving company. After all, moving can be a stressful and emotional time for many families – and that precious cargo they’ll be loading into the moving van is likely filled with memories and milestones.

While many moves go off without a hitch, the best defense against dishonest or substandard moving companies is to be informed and know the options. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the most common consumer complaints include shipments being “held hostage” for money; loss, damage or delay of shipments; unauthorized movers; and overcharges.

Here are a few steps you can take to ensure that you find the best moving company for your clients:

• Know the difference between a mover and a moving broker. While there are many reputable moving brokers out there, they are not the same as movers and they may not represent themselves as such. They are basically sales teams that book your move and sell it to a moving company; they are not responsible for loss or damage. Be aware that they don’t have the authority to provide your client an estimate on behalf of a specific mover and, if they do, it may not be binding. That means your client may have to pay the actual charges the mover assesses. Estimates from movers and brokers must be in writing and your clients should never sign blank or incomplete documents.
• Check the record. Make sure the mover or broker is registered with the FMCSA. You can research the consumer complaint history of a mover or broker at www.protectyourmove.gov.
• Show me the numbers. Be wary of full service movers that don’t show their U.S. DOT numbers and brokers that do not show Motor Carrier (MC) numbers in their ads. They may have something to hide.
• Know the mover’s responsibility for loss/damage. Not understanding different types of liability is a common customer mistake. Make sure your client has a good understanding of the difference between valuation and actual insurance.
• Make sure someone’s there to supervise the move. If your client can’t be there for the loading and unloading of items, make sure they have someone acting on their behalf. Your client is also allowed to be present each time their shipment is weighed to ensure an honest and accurate number.
• Shop around. Once you’ve narrowed down a few reputable movers, it’s always a good idea to get moving quotes from three or more companies.
• Make sure the company is a good fit. Remember it’s not all about the price. Just as every family or individual is different, every person's moving needs are different. The household moving services your client requires will be different, too. Be sure to choose a mover that tailors your clients’ moving plan to their needs, their schedule and their budget.

Finding an affordable moving company that provides outstanding customer service is also important. Choose a company that offers pre-move planning with a personal relocation consultant, as well as safe, qualified drivers to transport their belongings.