Moving can be a stressful ordeal, no matter how far you’re going. With so much to do, the last thing you need to worry about is whether your moving company is worth the money.

Choosing to use a moving company is no small matter. After all, the professional movers you hire will literally have some of your most prized possessions in their hands. If you’re an Austin resident planning a future move, here are a few key points to consider when comparing moving companies near you.

1. Moving Rates and Additional Services

The biggest cause of stress with moving companies is, of course, money. Getting hit with an unexpected cost can be a major headache, especially if you think you've gotten the worst of the move behind you.

The best moving companies should always provide accurate quotes beforehand so you understand the overall cost before you move. Asking for a detailed estimate of all the company’s rates is a good idea for getting the most accurate picture of the overall cost.

Less reputable moving companies may spring excess fees on you at the last minute through “additional services” not included in their initial quote. When getting a moving company quote beforehand, ensure you receive a comprehensive breakdown of all specific services and any associated costs.

2. Policies and Fees

When looking at moving company quotes, one thing to consider is what kind of move you’re planning. Long-distance moving companies tend to structure their quotes differently from local moving companies.

If you plan a long-distance move, the moving company may base its quotes on your items’ total weight, distance, and projected labor costs. In contrast, local moving companies will likely provide a simple hourly rate, especially if the move is within a 50-mile radius.

Good moving companies should also offer insurance policies if items get lost or damaged. Using a mover that offers protection against loss or damage is a great way to protect your move and avoid unnecessary stress or hassle.

3. Reviews & Reputation

One of the biggest red flags to watch for when searching for moving companies is a lack of reviews or testimonials.

Reputable movers should have a strong online presence, complete with customer reviews. If a moving company does not seem to have any reviews on major sites like Yelp or Google, it may be a red flag that they’re not as legit as they claim to be.

4. Pre-Move Preparation

Accurate moving quotes generally require a photos/ videos and a detailed list from a professional to assess how many items you’re moving, a basic estimate of their weight, any items that require special treatment, and so on. Watch out for companies that either don’t make their rates accessible or only give you a quick quote over the phone.

At MASH Movers, we like to be upfront about our prices and timelines. We have a standard rate of $209/hr (with a two-hour minimum) for a team of three movers and a box truck.

Based on the size of your space, we estimate a time block and total cost so you know what to expect. You can even schedule your move online!

5. Licensure

Reputable movers should always have proper licensure through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

An unlicensed moving company may seem cheaper at first. But these companies usually either charge you more than what they initially quoted you, or else mess up your move in ways that cost you valuable items, your sanity, or both.

Things to Ask Before You Hire Movers

Asking the right questions of prospective moving companies can go a long way in finding the best mover for you. Here are some important questions to ask any moving company you’re considering:

Are you licensed through the FMCSA?
What insurance coverage do you offer?
How do you determine your rates? (i.e., by the hour, by weight, by distance, etc.)
Can you provide an all-inclusive quote?
Do you have references?
Do you have an experienced team?

Avoid the Stress With MASH Movers

If you’re a resident of Austin, finding the right local Austin movers can be particularly challenging. Fortunately, MASH Movers has your back. As a locally-owned Austin company, MASH is not a faceless corporate carrier. Rather, we’re a friendly local business run by the same artistic types that make Austin such a great place to move to.

With reliable service, friendly staff, and countless satisfied customers, MASH Movers are the best moving partners for Austin residents like you. So if you’re planning a move in the Austin area, get in touch with MASH Movers for a free quote.