Protect Your Move: Tips For Choosing A Legitimate Moving Company

Have you ever moved? It's a stressful experience, and it can be even more so if you don't choose the right local moving company in York. Unfortunately, there are scams out there that will take advantage of your situation. That's why we've put together this guide to help protect your move from falling victim to illegitimate movers. We'll discuss why choosing a trustworthy mover is essential, what makes an untrustworthy mover stand out, and how to ensure the one you pick is legitimate.

When it comes to something as important as moving your possessions across town or country, you want to make sure everything goes smoothly — but also safely! You're trusting strangers with all of your belongings that could have a sentimental or monetary value attached to them. The last thing you want is for them not to show up when they say they will (or worse!) So who should you trust?

Movers who act fishy should send off alarm bells in your head before signing any contracts. Do their rates seem too low compared to other companies? Are they asking for payment upfront without doing an on-site estimate first? How about online reviews - do they have good ones or bad ones? All these factors should play into whether or not you decide to work with them.

With these tips in mind, you can ensure that the mover you hire is reputable and secure enough for your needs. We'll review additional information later in our article, so keep reading if protecting your move matters most!

Qualities To Look For In A Moving Company

Moving, checking reviews and references is essential. With all the options, you want to choose a legitimate company that will safely handle your belongings. Start by doing an online search for reputable companies in your area. Next, check customer review websites like Yelp or Angie's List and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. Finally, pay attention to any negative feedback; if customers have had bad experiences with a particular company, note what they experienced so you can avoid similar issues.

Ask family, friends and colleagues who've gone through similar moves before - chances are they were happy with their movers and would recommend them again. Not only will this provide helpful information on which companies offer quality service, but it may also give you access to discounts from movers with pre-existing relationships with your contacts.

Contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to check each mover's ratings. The BBB provides reliable background checks for businesses across North America - so you can rest assured knowing that the company has been suspended for credibility and transparency regarding pricing and services offered.

Estimating Costs And Services Offered

Now that you've reviewed the reviews and references of potential moving companies, it's time to estimate the costs and services offered. Doing so can help ensure you get the best deal for your money. The primary step is to get an estimate from each company you're considering. Assessments should be free and include a breakdown of services included in the cost and any additional fees or charges.

It's crucial to compare estimates between different companies and ensure all costs associated with the move have been factored into the total price. Be wary of low-ball forecasts, which may not include extra charges like packing materials, insurance coverage, fuel surcharges, etc., that could add up quickly when they come due. If there are discrepancies between quotes from different movers, ask questions about what each section covers before deciding.

When comparing estimates, look at more than just the bottom line number; think about value for money too. Are you being provided with quality service? Do their rates reflect professional experience and expertise? Is the timeline realistic? All these factors should be considered when evaluating offers from different moving companies. Consider your budget and needs carefully when making this important choice.

Understanding Insurance Coverage

Understanding insurance coverage, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Every moving company is different and offers different levels of protection for your belongings. Therefore, it's essential to research and understand the type of insurance they offer before choosing a mover. Most companies will provide primary liability coverage but often charge extra for more comprehensive plans that cover the replacement cost if something gets lost or damaged in transit.

It's also essential to read through their policy carefully to know what is covered and what isn't. Ask questions about any part of the contract you don't understand, such as deductibles or limits on certain items like electronics or antiques. The last thing you want is to be stuck with an unexpected bill or discover that your insurance plan needs to protect some of your most valuable possessions.

Many purchase additional third-party coverage from a reputable insurer before their move date for peace of mind. This can give them extra financial security should anything happen during transport. However, get quotes from multiple providers and compare prices before deciding - getting the best deal can sometimes mean sacrificing quality!

Making Sure The Company Is Licensed

Now that you understand the insurance coverage associated with your move, you must make sure the moving company you choose is legitimate. To do this, there are a few steps you can take to ensure you are working with an experienced and reliable mover.

Start by checking if the company is registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT). This is because all companies must be reported to transport goods over state lines legally. In addition, the DOT will have a record of all complaints filed against a particular company, so it's essential to review these records before hiring any movers.

Next, ask for references from previous customers who have used the same moving service. This offers valuable insight into how well they perform their job and allows learning about any issues that may arise during their move. Additionally, look for reviews online or on social media sites like Yelp or Facebook to get feedback from other consumers who have worked with the company.

Lastly, always request written estimates before deciding which mover to use; don't automatically go for the lowest estimate without additional research. Ask questions about everything from what services are included in each quote to whether taxes and fees are factored into their final price. A professional and ethical business should provide clear answers regarding the cost and services offered upfront before signing any paperwork or contracts. Doing due diligence beforehand can help protect yourself and guarantee a successful move.

Ensuring Safety Measures Are Followed

Ensuring a legitimate moving company takes necessary safety measures when helping you relocate is vital. Ask the company if they follow all local and state regulations, such as providing protective gear for their employees and practicing social distancing with customers. Ensure you understand exactly what processes they have to keep everyone safe during your move. Additionally, request documentation of any insurance coverage the company has so that you can be protected financially should anything go wrong.

Another critical component of ensuring safety is researching the quality of the moving equipment used by the company. Check online reviews or ask others who have worked with them about their service standards and customer satisfaction. For example, are their trucks regularly maintained? Do they use high-grade packing materials? These details will help ensure that everything will get from point A to B safely and securely.

When it comes to delivery, scrutinize each package and item upon arrival at your new home. Ensure nothing seems damaged or broken--if something does appear off, document it immediately and contact the mover's office accordingly. Taking these extra steps ahead of time can save a lot of headaches down the road.

What To Do If A Problem Occurs During The Move

As with any service, preparing for a potential problem is essential. If something does go wrong during the move, don't panic and take action quickly. Contact the moving company as soon as possible. Explain the situation in detail and see if they can help resolve it. Remember to document all communication between you and the company in case legal action becomes necessary.

It's also beneficial to know who to turn to if an issue needs addressing immediately. Contact your local consumer protection or state attorney general's office for assistance. They will be able to provide resources and advice on how best to handle any problems that may arise during the move. Additionally, ensure you keep copies of all contracts, paperwork and receipts related to the activity so that, if needed, you have evidence of what was agreed upon between both parties at the time of hire.

If a dispute arises over payment or property damage, filing a complaint with FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) could help resolve things faster by putting pressure on the moving company from a third-party organization. In addition, knowing where to turn should a problem occur during the move can save time and stress when dealing with unexpected relocating-related issues.

Scheduling Ahead Of Time And Sticking To It

Scheduling ahead of time is a crucial step in the moving process. Begin researching and calling movers at least six weeks before your move date. This will give you ample time to compare services, pricing, availability, and customer reviews. When selecting potential movers, ensure they are licensed and insured according to state laws. Ask for references from previous customers or on social media platforms like Nextdoor or Facebook groups in your area.

Once you've found a reputable mover that meets your needs, booking as soon as possible is essential. Moving companies get booked quickly due to their limited capacity—especially during the high season (May through September). It's also important not to wait until the last minute if there are any specific dates or times when you need them available–even if there is still availability with other movers later down the line. Once you have scheduled service with your chosen mover, stick to it! Rescheduling can be difficult once everything has been set in stone, so make sure you won't need any changes after booking.

Preparing The Home And Belongings For The Move

It's essential to start preparing for your move as soon as possible. Start by taking inventory of all the items you need to pack, and make sure everything is ready when the movers arrive—next, clear particular furniture and oversized items out of the way so they can be easily moved. Finally, let the moving company know if any pieces require special care or disassembly. Additionally, it's essential to organize a packing strategy – this includes labelling boxes according to their contents and room destination. You may also want to keep an open box with essentials like snacks, toiletries, phone chargers, etc. so that these items will remain accessible throughout the move.

When deciding what belongings you'll take with you on the journey, remember there could be additional costs if your shipment exceeds its weight limit or requires special handling. Consider donating items or selling them online before hiring a mover - this will save money and time during the relocation process. Also, be mindful of hazardous materials such as paint thinner, propane tanks, fireworks or ammunition; these should not be included in your shipment! It's best to research regulations about shipping certain types of goods beforehand.

Take extra precautions when packing breakables such as glassware and china – wrap individual pieces carefully with bubble wrap or newspaper before storing them in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with foam sheets or blankets for padding. Label each one accordingly and indicate which side should face up while loading onto the truck. Doing so will help ensure nothing gets damaged during transport!

Packing Tips For An Easier Move

Packing can be one of the most overwhelming parts of moving. To make your move as easy and stress-free as possible, it's essential to plan and pack strategically. Start early by making an inventory list and sorting through items you don't need or want anymore. And designate a box for each room in your new home so that it will be easier to unpack at your destination once everything is packed. Ensure all fragile items are adequately wrapped with bubble wrap or packing paper before being placed into boxes.

Additionally, clearly label every box with its contents and which room they should go into for easy unpacking later. Then, use mattress covers to keep them clean during transport and place heavier items like books at the bottom of the boxes for stability. By following these tips, you'll have a smoother transition when moving day arrives!

Unpacking Upon Arrival At The New Home

Arriving at the new home with all your belongings can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. You're anxious to start unpacking and making it feel like home but don't rush into anything. Instead, take some time to get acquainted with your surroundings first. Here are a few tips for tackling the move-in process.

Prepare Your New Home

• Unpack more oversized items first, such as furniture or appliances that need to be plugged in.
• Inspect each item for any signs of damage before moving them in.

Get Settled In

• Prioritize which rooms you want to unpack and tackle those spaces individually.
• Create a system for organizing boxes so you know where everything is located when needed later on.

Unpacking does not have to be stressful; remember that taking your time will make the transition smoother. Don't worry if you can't finish right away; there's always tomorrow! Start small and enjoy being surrounded by familiar things as you settle into your new sweet home.

Dealing With Unexpected Expenses During A Move

Now that you have unpacked your belongings and settled into your new home, it is time to focus on dealing with unexpected expenses during a move. Moving can be expensive, and often costs exceed the estimate provided by the moving company. Consider these tips below to help prepare for any additional relocation costs.

• Get an Estimate from Multiple Companies

Gathering multiple estimates will give you more accurate cost information upfront. In addition, different companies may offer other services at various price points. As a result, you can decide which service provider best meets your needs and budget.

• Ask About Hidden Fees & Surcharges

Ask questions about fees or surcharges not included in the estimate so there are no surprises later. These could include fuel charges, extra stairs/elevator fees, packing materials, etc. Having this knowledge upfront will allow you to plan accordingly and avoid costly add-on fees after signing a contract.

• Compare Insurance Coverage Options

Be sure to review the insurance options offered by each company before committing to one. For example, some policies only cover damages caused while under their care; others cover losses due to theft or natural disasters. Knowing what types of protection are available helps ensure your property is covered should something happen during transport or storage.

Ultimately, understanding all potential costs associated with a move is critical when selecting a mover – but don't forget about other important factors like customer reviews and references too! With careful research and planning, you can minimize stress around finances during your relocation process.

What To Do After The Move Is Complete

Once the move is complete, there are a few things to remember. First, ensuring you have all your items and nothing is left behind is vital. Ensure each box has been unpacked and any pieces of furniture are put together correctly. If anything needs repair or replacement, contact your moving company as soon as possible so they can take care of it for you.

Check everything carefully for damage from transport and re-check the inventory list with what you received to get an accurate picture of what may be missing or damaged. This will help when filing claims with the insurance company if needed. And remember to thank your movers! Most moves require long hours and hard work by everyone involved, so showing appreciation ensures a successful relocation experience.

It's essential to protect yourself during every step of the moving process – from researching companies before hiring them to confirm arrival times once delivered. Taking these steps now ensures peace of mind later on down the line.



Finding the right moving company is essential to a successful move. Taking your time and thoroughly researching before making any decisions is vital. From researching potential companies, checking reviews/references and estimating costs and services offered, you can take many steps to ensure you choose an experienced, trustworthy mover for your relocation.

Once you've selected a reputable moving company and packed up everything in preparation for the big day, it's helpful to be prepared for any unexpected expenses that may arise during the move. Being mindful of how much money you'll need will help alleviate stress about handling additional fees or issues with the movers.

Finally, once your belongings have been safely delivered and unloaded at your new home, remember to follow up with feedback regarding their service so future customers can benefit from your experience. With these tips, you'll be well-equipped to choose a legitimate moving company and protect your move!