As you prepare for an upcoming move, one of the best steps you can take is to hire a reliable moving company to help you get the job done efficiently and conveniently. But moving companies are just as varied as the people within them, and finding the right one for you certainly isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.

If you’re on the hunt for your perfect movers but aren’t sure how to find them, you’ve come to the right place.

How to Look for Movers

Research is imperative when looking for a moving company, and with the proper know-how, you can discern which companies provide high-quality, trustworthy services.

Interested in learning more? Discover our five simple steps to exploring your moving company options!

  • Ask for Referrals

First, start by seeking referrals from people you trust. There’s a reason why word-of-mouth is considered one of the most valuable and impactful forms of marketing.

A customer’s positive experience will often push them to share testimonials, drawing in more customers, but it can also have the opposite effect following a negative encounter. Previous patrons of a company can provide great insight into the quality of their service and how they approach their moving solutions.

Ask friends and family who have recently moved, and find out if they have any insight on which companies they would recommend — or even which companies they would steer clear of.

  • Use Online Review Sites

Take your research a step further by checking out online reviews. It’s easier than ever before to find plenty of reviews on products and services, and moving companies are no exception to this convenient option.

Go on any online review platform, and you’ll be likely to see hundreds of reviews on your local moving companies. Read through the insights from other customers, and find out what the general feeling is about each company you’re considering.

You might find that a seemingly trustworthy company isn’t as great as it might look from the outside. This can allow you to make the wisest choice possible for your relocation.

  • Verify Credentials

When working with any moving company, it’s absolutely crucial that you verify their credentials prior to signing any contracts with them. This is for your own protection, as there are plenty of rogue movers out there, and checking for proper credentials is an effective way to avoid them.

Any reputable moving company will have certain qualifications and licenses that confirm their status as a high quality, reliable company. Confirm that any movers you consider have a USDOT number, provided by the United States Department of Transportation. 

Additionally, any company that provides interstate moving services will need to have licensing from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Although not required, many moving companies will have affiliations with other respected companies in the industry.

For example, many movers have a ProMover certification through the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). Look out for any affiliations like this, as they can be telling of a company’s caliber.

  • Check for Good Standing

A trustworthy moving company will always be in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. In fact, this can be one of the most reliable ways to determine the merit of a company, as BBB will display any outstanding customer complaints and provide a grade based on the company’s history with their patrons.

If movers are not in good standing with the Better Business Bureau, that is an immediate sign to steer clear of their services. On the other hand, some companies take it a step further in the positive direction and not only have good standing, but also serve as a BBB accredited business. This is a great sign to work with a company.

  • Assess Initial Encounters

Finally, always trust your instincts. If you feel unsure and hesitant following your initial conversations or the in-home assessment, look elsewhere for your moving solutions.

A lot can be determined from these immediate encounters, and it’s important to avoid anything that even seems slightly suspicious. Not sure what to look out for when you’re meeting with movers for the first time? Here are a few red flags to be aware of:

  • No physical address or phone number
  • Asking for large sums of money upfront
  • Lack of thorough in-home assessment
  • Incomplete or missing paperwork
  • Unreliable communication
  • Pressuring for a quick decision
  • Providing a suspiciously low quote
  • Displaying unprofessional behavior

If a potential mover displays any of the behavior or characteristics listed above, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Find Your Perfect Long Island Movers!

With these steps in mind, finding a reliable moving company for your upcoming relocation doesn’t need to be a stressful task. In fact, it can be quite simple if you know what to look for.

If you’re looking to simplify the process even further and skip the search, count on Austin Moving & Storage, your trusted Long Island movers! For three generations, we have provided top tier moving, packing, and storage services our customers can rely on. We are constantly working to deliver the utmost satisfaction to our valued patrons.

Interested in utilizing our solutions for your move? Request a quote online today, and discover our affordable rates!