How to Choose a Moving Company (Without Getting Burned)

Moving is already stressful. The last thing you need is a moving company that shows up two hours late, holds your belongings hostage for a higher payment, or damages your furniture and shrugs. It happens more than you'd think.

After 10 years and 1,200+ moves in Denver and Phoenix, we've heard every horror story. Here's what to watch for — and the questions every customer should ask before signing anything.

Red Flags to Walk Away From

Hourly rates with no estimate. An hourly rate isn't inherently bad, but any reputable company should be able to give you a realistic estimate based on your home size and situation. Vague hourly quotes are how moves that "should take 4 hours" mysteriously stretch to 8.

Round-trip billing. Some companies charge you for the crew's drive from their facility and back — before and after your actual move. Ask specifically: "Does your quote include drive time to and from your facility?" If yes, that's a significant added cost. At BBM, we charge from arrival to completion. That's it.

No USDOT number or license. Any legitimate moving company operating across state lines must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. You can verify at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. If they can't provide one, walk away.

Unusually low initial quotes. The classic bait-and-switch. A company gives you a low estimate, then hits you with a dramatically higher bill on moving day — often after your belongings are on the truck.

Cash-only payment. Professional companies accept credit cards or checks. Cash-only is a red flag for unregistered operators who don't want a paper trail.

7 Questions to Ask Before You Book

1. Are you licensed and do you meet or exceed PUC cargo damage protection minimums? Ask for proof of registration and confirm their damage coverage — the PUC minimum is $0.60/lb per article.
2. Do you use your own crews, or do you hire day laborers? Day laborers aren't always a problem, but professional movers should have consistent, trained crews.
3. What does your quote include — and what's not included? Stairs, long carries, fuel charges, truck size — get all of it in writing.
4. Do you charge round-trip? See above. The answer should be no.
5. What's your show rate? Reputable companies know their cancellation and no-show rate. BBM's is 99%+.
6. What's your damage claims process? Even careful movers occasionally damage something. Know the process before you need it.
7. Can I reach a real person if something comes up? On move day, you should be able to call someone who can actually help. If the answer is "email support," that's a problem.

The Bottom Line

The cheapest quote is rarely the best value. When you factor in hours that run longer than estimated, hidden fees, and potential damage to your belongings, a slightly higher — but accurate — quote from a reliable company almost always comes out ahead. A good mover gives you an honest time-range estimate and bills you for actual hours worked, not a padded number.

Do your research. Check Google reviews. Ask direct questions. And if something feels off, trust your gut.