Comparing Long Distance Moving Services: What to Consider

Thinking about moving across the country?

Every year, more than 25 million Americans move to a new location, and choosing the right moving company can mean the difference between a hassle-free experience and a complete disaster. After all, you are about to let a bunch of strangers pack up and move everything you own.

Here’s the problem:

There are a lot of moving companies out there, and not all of them are good. Some will treat your belongings like gold, while others may cause you to shed tears over broken furniture and lost boxes.

If you don’t do your research and go into it the right way, you can easily end up paying thousands of dollars more than you should have. Or end up dealing with a moving company that runs off with all of your belongings.

What you’ll discover:

• What Makes Professional Moving Companies Stick Out
• How Moving Costs Break Down and What to Expect
• Warning Signs to Avoid Scammers
• Questions to Ask Every Homeowner Before Hiring a Mover

What Makes Professional Moving Companies Stick Out

So, what is the secret to finding legitimate movers in the first place?

Look at their credentials. The simple fact is that if any moving company is hauling your belongings from one state to another, they need to have a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). No ifs, ands, or buts about it.

But here’s the kicker…

According to a study done in 2024, 82% of Americans said that moving was very or somewhat stressful. In other words, the problem isn’t about moving per se, it’s about working with the right moving company. 

The difference between a stress-free move and a total nightmare is having professionally trained movers on your side who know what they are doing and how to handle your particular situation.

So what do you look for in legitimate professional moving companies?

• Have a USDOT registration number, no exceptions
• Possess proper insurance and licensing for the type of move you require
• Provide a written estimate for your move and not a verbal one
• Offer complete pricing transparency with no hidden fees

Here’s the thing…

All reputable and professional moving companies will either come to your home to assess what you have before they can quote you a price or perform a detailed virtual survey. If any company you talk to quotes you over the phone without seeing your items in person, walk.

How Moving Costs Break Down and What to Expect

Moving long distance isn’t cheap, even if you are moving to a new apartment or house of similar size.

The average cost of interstate moving is about $5,500, but this can vary depending on a variety of different factors. Knowing about these costs ahead of time will help prevent sticker shock later down the line.

Distance is one of the most important parts. On average, you can expect to pay between $0.50 and $1.00 per mile to move, but total weight is also a big factor.

The break down goes like this:

• Weight-based pricing is most common
• Charge by distance
• Add on specialty services
• Peak season prices are higher

The thing is that it is a smart idea to get written quotes from at least three separate companies. This not only helps you compare prices, but also services and value.

Don’t fall for the bottom bid either. Extremely low quotes from moving companies are frequently a sign of scam companies that will hold your belongings hostage until you pay them way too much money.

Warning Signs to Avoid Scammers

Some red flags are easy to spot while others are more subtle.

Don’t hire any company that:

• Asks for large cash deposits upfront
• Arrives without proper identification and uniforms
• Does not provide local references when asked
• Gives an estimate that sounds too good to be true
• Refuses to give a written contract

Here’s the thing that most people miss…

Red flags also include moving companies that change their business names frequently, use generic email addresses instead of company-provided domains. Legitimate moving companies invest in their brand and keep consistent business identities.

Another big red flag is the old door to door salesman technique. Professional moving companies do not send representatives to knock on doors to get business, they get customers through referrals and their online presence.

You can verify any company’s complaint history by checking their standing through the Better Business Bureau. Checking reviews is also a great idea and not just on one platform. A couple of bad reviews are normal, but patterns of issues with damaged items or surprise fees are a reason to look elsewhere.

Questions to Ask Every Homeowner Before Hiring a Mover

The right questions can help you distinguish a legit company from a scam.

Asking the following questions are a great place to start.

“What is your USDOT number?” All Interstate movers need to have one, check it on the FMCSA website to ensure that they are properly registered and to view any history of complaints.

“What are your procedures for making claims on damaged items?” Professional moving companies have established processes for making claims and carry proper insurance. They will be able to explain their liability coverage options clearly and confidently.

“Can you give me recent local references?” Good companies are proud of their work and happy to share testimonials from past customers, including contact information for recent moves in your area.

Question that always trips up scammers:

“What would you do if my items don’t all fit in one truck?” Professional companies plan for that situation and have protocols in place for dealing with it. Scammers frequently have not thought of this ahead of time.

Ask about packing materials, storage solutions, and delivery windows, as well. Professional moving companies will offer flexible delivery times and use quality packing supplies to safeguard your belongings.

The best part about reputable movers is that they welcome the right kinds of questions. A moving company that gets annoyed or evasive when you start asking for details is a company you should continue shopping around for.

Making Your Final Choice

Congrats, you did the work, got your quotes, and asked all of the tough questions.

Now it’s time to make a decision, but don’t be so quick to just go with the lowest bid or the one that offers the most flashy marketing. The right company should include total value, and that includes good customer service, dependability, and peace of mind.

Look for moving companies that can provide:

• Guaranteed delivery times
• Real-time shipment tracking
• 24/7 customer support during the move
• Complete insurance options and coverage
• Flexible payment options and terms

It’s important to note that the moving industry is always changing and growing. Many companies have started to offer mobile apps that allow you to track and communicate with your moving company. While these features are great, do not let bells and whistles distract from the fundamentals of good service.

And keep in mind that moving companies are busiest from May until September. The summer is the prime moving season. If your moving dates are flexible, consider moving in the off-season, this can save you serious cash and allow for better availability.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing the right long distance moving service does not have to be complicated. Look for the important things like credentials, transparency with pricing, and excellent customer service.

Stick with the movers who:

• Give proper insurance and licensing documentation
• Provide a detailed written estimate and not a verbal one
• Go above and beyond with customer service
• Stand by their work with thorough claims procedures

Start your search early, get quotes, and trust your gut. If a moving company gives you a bad feeling, there is probably a good reason for that.

When all is said and done, you are not just hiring moving trucks, you are partnering with a company during one of the most stressful times of your life. Choose wisely, and your long distance move will be an adventure instead of a horror story.