How to Hire Long Distance Movers

Hiring long distance movers isn't as simple as picking up the phone and agreeing to a contract — which is surprising, given there are thousands of long distance moving companies in the United States.

People that are researching the best ways to go about hiring long distance movers are already on the right track and going about it correctly. This article explains the steps you need to take when attempting to hire a long distance moving company.

Key Points of Article

• The hiring process for long distance movers

• How to choose the right company

• How to ensure the mover is legit

Hiring Process of a Long Distance Moving Company

When deciding to hire a mover to relocate your items, there are factors that need to be considered beyond requesting a quote and signing a contract.

Years in Business

You want to hire a brand that's been in the household goods moving industry for at least 5 years. Anything below that is a start-up brand and likely not experienced.

Reputation

The mover's reviews matter. Given the nature of shipping, negative reviews are bound to happen — but we've seen consumers go with a low price paired with a brand that has over 300 complaints online. We constantly warn against choosing solely based on price, and consumers that don't heed our warnings always regret it.

Operating Authority

Confirm if your mover is a carrier or broker. Ultimately, operating authority isn't as important as some say. This process is more about understanding whether the company will do your move directly or arrange for transportation.

Comparing Estimated Volumes

When comparing costs and movers, you must compare the estimated cubic feet or weight. This helps you determine whether you're being over- or underestimated (over- or undercharged).

Trusting Your Estimator

Ask yourself: does the person quoting my job seem knowledgeable, or are they just reading a script? Aim to work with a brand that hires estimators who understand how long distance moving works. A knowledgeable estimator doesn't need a script to answer your questions or quote your move.

Comparing Pricing to Industry Standard

Another way to tell if a long distance moving company is under- or overpriced is by comparing your quote to industry standard. There are several long distance moving cost calculators and out-of-state moving cost guides that can help determine if your price is fair, too cheap, or expensive.

Negotiate Charges

Many times, moving estimates can be negotiated. If a mover refuses to negotiate, the brand may be overbooked. However, by simply asking for a lower rate in exchange for a commitment, you can usually save up to $1,000.

Seeking Transparency

When deciding on which mover you want to hire, it's best to go with the long distance moving company that is upfront about their process rather than selling you a dream. Moving comes with risks of estimate increases, potential damages, and delays. At American National Movers, we train our estimators to come up with a plan to reduce those risks rather than hide them.

Discussing Delivery Windows

Not every mover ships your load directly from your pickup state — some take longer than others. Do yourself the favor and confirm a guaranteed delivery date or a concrete ETA so that you're prepared when waiting for your furniture.

Are Your Movers Legit?

Beyond checking a mover's license (DOT) and insurance, here are practical ways to gauge a mover's legitimacy:

BBB Rating

Legitimate brands always advertise on the Better Business Bureau. BBB-accredited long distance movers show that they are leading with trust.

Online Reputation

Legitimate movers are posted across multiple review aggregate and affiliate moving platforms. Aim to hire long distance movers with a strong online presence rather than a thin one. Brands with limited feedback online are likely a scam.

Review Management

Legitimate brands have reviews posted recently and from years ago. These reviews shouldn't all be recent, and should range from good to bad. Negative experiences can eventually happen, so don't expect a brand to have no complaints at all.

Quoting Process

A mover worth hiring is efficient with its estimate process. They clearly mark your items with detailed descriptions and ask the right questions rather than rushing the estimate and sending a generic quote.

No Pressure to Close

Lastly, long distance movers that are worth hiring aren't desperate for your sale. They quote you and are happy to answer questions, but aren't in a rush for you to decide. Any company pressuring you to sign is an indication that their business is lacking in areas that aren't worth discovering.