Start With Research, Not Just Ratings

Many people turn to Google or Yelp when searching for a moving company. That’s a solid place to begin. Still, don’t just sort by stars and pick the first name you see. Star ratings can be misleading. Some companies have dozens of short, generic reviews that don’t say much. Others might have a slightly lower rating but hundreds of detailed, positive reviews from real customers.

To get the full story, check several platforms—Google, Yelp, Angi, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Comparing across sites helps reveal patterns. A lower score can sometimes hide a stronger, more reliable company if the reviews are more genuine and descriptive.

Read the Reviews—Don’t Just Glance at Them

Quick scanning won’t give you enough information. Take time to read a few reviews all the way through. Look for repeating themes. Do people often mention careful handling of fragile items? Do several reviews complain about late arrivals or surprise charges?

These patterns reveal more than one good or bad comment ever could. Reviews with clear details are more useful than vague praise. Reading carefully shows you how the company actually works.

Watch Out for Fake or Filtered Reviews

Not every review comes from a real customer. Fake reviews are common, both positive and negative. Short lines like “Great service!” without details can be a warning sign. Another red flag is a cluster of glowing reviews all posted on the same day.

Also, watch out for sites that filter reviews or only show selected ones. Some platforms don’t even allow companies to reply. Real movers should welcome all feedback. Companies that respond politely and professionally—especially when things go wrong—are usually the ones you can trust.

Look for Details That Match Your Situation

Not every mover is strong in the same areas. One company may shine at cross-country jobs but struggle with small apartment moves. Another might be the opposite.

Think about your own situation. If you’re moving into a fourth-floor walk-up in New York, read reviews from people who faced the same challenge. Planning to move a large home across states? Look for reviews that describe that type of job. Reviews that match your needs will be the most helpful.

Pay Attention to Customer Service Mentions

Customer service says a lot about a moving company. Mistakes happen, but what matters is how they are handled. If a review mentions damage yet also notes that the company fixed the problem quickly, that’s a good sign.

Look for movers who respond to reviews online. A company that replies respectfully, even to complaints, shows they care about customers. Their response tells you more than a perfect score ever could.

Check How the Company Handles Quotes and Pricing

Money is often where problems appear. Reviews often mention whether the estimate matched the final bill. Pay close attention to this. Hidden fees and unclear pricing are some of the most common complaints.

Good reviews highlight honesty. Did the company explain their rates clearly? Were charges for stairs, waiting time, or long carries included upfront? Movers who set clear expectations from the start build trust and avoid last-minute shocks.

Don’t Just Rely on Reviews—Verify Credentials

Strong reviews are important, but licenses and insurance matter just as much. Before booking, check the company’s U.S. DOT number for interstate moves. For local jobs, confirm licensing with your state’s transportation office.

It also helps to look them up on the FMCSA website. Make sure their insurance is active. Reviews tell you what others experienced, but credentials protect you if something goes wrong. Skipping this step can cause major problems.

Ask Questions Before You Book

After you narrow down your list, contact the companies directly. A reliable mover will explain things clearly, answer questions, and avoid pushy sales tactics.

Ask how long they’ve been in business. Ask if they subcontract moves, and what’s gonna happens if something gets lost or damaged. The way they answer tells you how they’ll treat you during the move. Clear, honest replies usually mean you’re in safe hands.

Compare More Than Just Reviews

Reviews help, but they’re not the whole story. Consider experience, services, and pricing too. A company with fewer reviews may still be a better choice if they have decades of solid work behind them. On the other hand, a cheap mover with lots of reviews might cut corners elsewhere.

Looking at the full picture—reviews, credentials, pricing, and experience—leads to a smarter decision. Each piece of information adds to your confidence.

Make an Informed, Confident Decision

In the end, choosing a mover is about trust. You’re letting people handle your belongings and step inside your home. That makes your choice very important.

Reviews give valuable guidance, but only if you use them wisely. Don’t rush. Read carefully, notice patterns, and balance reviews with credentials and experience. Trust your instincts as well. Taking a little extra time now can save you from stress, hidden costs, and regret later.