How to Choose the Right Moving Company

Moving is a big task, and one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right moving company. Over the years, I’ve seen just how much of an impact a good or bad moving company can have on the entire process. From my experience, there are a few key factors that can make all the difference when it comes to selecting a mover who will take the stress out of your move and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Hourly Rate or Fixed Prices?

One of the most crucial factors to consider is pricing. Do they offer a fixed price or charge by the hour? Both have their pros and cons, but I usually recommend opting for an hourly rate. Fixed price moves might seem appealing because you know exactly what you’ll pay upfront—no surprises. But here’s the catch: companies often add a premium to cover the risk of the job taking longer than expected.

With an hourly rate, you only pay for the time the movers actually spend working. If you’re organized and everything goes smoothly, you can often end up paying less. From my experience, a higher hourly rate doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll pay more overall. In fact, top-quality movers often get the job done faster, which can lead to a lower final bill.

Cheaper Isn’t Always Cheaper

I know how tempting it is to go for the cheapest option. But let me tell you from experience: a lower rate doesn’t always mean you’ll save money in the end. I’ve worked with high-value companies that charge a bit more by the hour, but they’re fast, efficient, and careful. This can actually save you money because the job gets done quicker, and there’s less risk of damages.

On the other hand, I’ve seen people go with a “cheaper” company, only to end up paying more because of delays, damages, or just plain inefficiency. When you’re weighing up options, consider the company’s track record for speed and care as much as their price.

Our friends at Ben’s Movers are the perfect example of this. While their $200+gst hourly rate is a bit above the market rate, their team works super quickly an carefully. Customers are often surprised by how quick they get a job done.

Consider Their Location

Here’s a tip many people overlook: where the company is based can make a difference. It;s common practice for moving companies to charge for travel time, so you can save a bit of money by choosing a company near you. This is particularly important for long-distance moves or if you’re in a more remote area. I always recommend going for a company that’s close by to keep those additional costs down.

Ask About Extra Services

Depending on your move, you might need more than just basic moving services. Whether it’s packing, unpacking, or handling specialty items like antiques or heavy furniture, make sure the company offers what you need. Not every mover will pack for you, and not every mover will have the skills or equipment to handle fragile or oversized items.

If you’re moving something valuable like a piano or a large TV, ask about their experience with such items. I always remind clients to be upfront about what they need, so there are no surprises (or excuses) on moving day.

Check Their Reviews

One of the simplest ways to gauge a company’s reputation is by checking their Google reviews. I always tell clients: don’t skip this step. It’s the easiest way to get a sense of how the company operates from people who’ve already used their services. Look for consistent feedback on things like punctuality, professionalism, and how well they handle belongings.

Keep an eye out for reviews that mention how the movers dealt with issues—no move is perfect, but how a company handles problems can tell you a lot about their reliability.

Get Multiple Quotes

I always recommend getting at least three quotes to compare. This gives you a better idea of the market rate, and it allows you to assess each company based on price, services, and professionalism.

Remember, the cheapest quote isn’t always the best deal, and the most expensive one doesn’t necessarily guarantee great service. Consider their service over the phone, are they friendly and helpful?

Trust Your Gut

At the end of the day, trust your instincts. If something feels off during the quote process—whether it’s poor communication or vague answers—it’s a good sign to keep looking. Moving is already stressful, and having a company that you feel good about can make a huge difference.

I’ve worked with enough moving companies to know that the little things matter: how they communicate, how organized they are, and how they treat your belongings. Trust your gut, and go with the company that makes you feel confident in their ability to get the job done right.

Choosing the right moving company can feel like a daunting task, but by focusing on the essentials—licensing, pricing models, reviews, and services—you can make a more informed decision. Don’t be swayed by the lowest price alone; quality movers might charge more, but their efficiency, care, and professionalism will save you money and stress in the long run. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be on your way to a smoother, more successful move.

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