Search the Internet for websites that provide free moving company quotes, such as AAAmovingquote.com, moving.com, usamovingcompanies.com, or 123movers.com.
Fill in the online forms and be as precise as possible. Type in the city and state you're moving to and from. Choose the type of move (typically full-service or self-service), the date of the move, the size of the move (typically in weight), and a list of your items, such as furniture, appliances and number of packed boxes.
Submit your form and receive free quotes either online, by email or by phone. Some websites offer several instant quotes or some may take 24 to 48 hours. Some sites have a "compare quotes" button you can click on to make the process even easier.
Compare the moving quotes based on your needs, price, and the extra features the moving companies offer, such as blankets, packing materials, trolleys, straps, carriers for hanging clothes, and extra boxes to safeguard your valuables.
Look at the moving quotes to see if they offer basic liability insurance coverage for lost or damaged items, or for damages caused by water, heat or cold. Also check to see if they offer extended coverage for unforeseen events that may happen during the actual move.
Scrutinize all extra charges the moving companies may tack on, such as extra days or delays caused by traffic jams or breakdowns, extra mileage, fuel and insurance surcharges, a hitch to pull your car, and potential moving date changes, for example.
Decide if you need your moving company to be a "relocation specialist" or whether you're more budget-minded and looking for the bare minimum. Compare quotes based on reputation, years in business, whether or not they're licensed or unlicensed, and whether they provide long distance moves.
Determine if the moving companies charge extra for door-to-door packing and unpacking, cleaning, and arranging in your new home, and if they offer a secure storage facility. Also, compare costs of moving special items, such as a piano, antique furniture or expensive artwork.
Weigh the pros and cons of hiring a small family-owned company versus a big company with a huge reputation. Prices and services will vary widely. Some will charge by the hour and some by the day. Some will charge by weight and some by volume (i.e. number of rooms).
Check for complaints filed against a moving company by calling or logging on to the Better Business Bureau.You can also search the complaint history of moving companies and brokers by accessing the Federal Transportation Department website (http://www.protectyourmove.gov). Do your research and be assured of a moving company's reputation before you make a final decision.
