Advice from our moving experts to make your next move smoother, safer, and less stressful.
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Published on Sep 9, 2023
•6 min read
By Mike Stackable,Founder
Are you thinking of packing up and moving this year? You don’t have to go through the tedious process of moving alone. Instead, consider hiring the best moving company in town.
There are over 18,000 companies in the moving services industry, though. It helps to have a plan to narrow down your options. Otherwise, you might risk hiring a moving company that lacks experience.
They might even damage or lose your belongings along the way.
Don’t risk hiring an inexperienced moving company in Austin. Instead, prioritize finding a company with these eight qualities.
Using this guide during your search can help you learn how to choose a moving company deserving of your trust. You’ll have peace of mind knowing a trustworthy, reputable company is on the job.
Start your search for the best moving company in Austin with these tips today.
First, turn to your friends, family members, and neighbors for help. Ask if any of them have hired a moving company recently. If they have, take the time to learn about their firsthand experience with that company.
Make a list of questions you want to ask beforehand. For example, you can ask:
Speaking with people in your inner circle can help you find the best moving company in town. If they experienced issues with the moving company, scratch that company off your list.
If your inner circle can’t point you in the right direction, that’s okay. Start by Googling “professional moving company near me” instead. Then, visit each company’s website, Better Business Bureau profile, and Google My Business listing.
You can use these resources to find customer reviews from homeowners who were once in your shoes. Read multiple reviews from each site.
Reading customer reviews can help you find a reputable moving company worthy of your trust.
Find a company with a strong professional reputation. These companies have worked hard to earn their reputation over the years. You’ll have an easier time trusting these companies with your possessions.
They’ll strive to maintain their reputation by offering the best possible customer experience, too.
About 10% of Americans move every single year. Chances are the companies on your list have helped a number of clients in the past. Some companies have more experience than others, though.
Look for an “About Us” page on each company’s website. Check their Better Business Bureau to learn about their professional history, too. Before hiring a moving company, make sure they have years of experience in the industry.
Look for a long-established business. These businesses have likely worked out operational issues over the years. They’ll know how to work efficiently without a problem.
A brand new business, on the other hand, might make a mistake. They could damage or lose your belongings.
As you learn how to choose a moving company, it’s important to check each company’s credentials.
First, make sure the company is licensed.
Find companies that are members of the American Mover and Storage Association, too. These companies know to comply with federal laws. They’ll also handle your possessions with the proper care and attention.
Don’t hire a moving company without checking for their US Department of Transportation (USDOT) number first. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for issuing these numbers.
You can use this tool to research each moving company on your list.
See if the company is an Updated Certified Moving Company as well. These teams are licensed, registered, and insured by the FMCSA. Make sure to ask each company for proof their license and insurance are up-to-date before hiring them.
Before hiring a moving company, ask each company about its team. You’ll want to make sure you hire a dependable, trustworthy team of movers.
Ask if the company hired employees or independent contractors. Consider asking if they run background checks as well. You’ll have peace of mind knowing a reliable team is on the job.
Consider asking about their process, too. For example, will they use protective materials on the job? How will they handle glass-fronted furniture or antiques?
Make sure they have a plan in place before getting started.
Take the time to review the moving services each company offers as well. For example, you might need:
The best moving company will offer every service you need. Choosing a single company will save you valuable time and money.
Ask if they offer any specialty services as well. For example, do you need help moving a piano or safe? What about a hot tub?
Reviewing their services will help you find the right team based on your unique needs.
Determine if any of the companies on your list offer any discounts or specials. Some companies offer discounts for students and veterans.
As you vet each moving company in Austin, keep an eye out for any red flags. For example, the company might show up in a rented moving van. Chances are, this company isn’t experienced.
They might show up late to give you an estimate. If they show up late for the estimate, they’ll likely show up late on moving day.
Make sure they don’t ask for a cash deposit beforehand, either. If any of these red flags sound familiar, choose someone else.
Gather estimates from at least three different moving companies. Gathering more than one quote will help you compare your options. Determine what’s included with each quote.
The best moving company will meet your needs, standards, and budget.
Don’t waste time or money hiring an unqualified moving company. Instead, use these tips to find the best moving company in Austin. With this guide, you’ll have peace of mind in your final choice.
An experienced moving company will ensure a smooth, stress-free move.
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