Hiring a moving company can make your relocation dramatically easier — or, if you run into the wrong company or skip a few important steps, add a whole new layer of stress. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you money, hassle, and a few headaches along the way.
Mistake #1: Choosing Based on Price Alone
The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value. Unusually low prices can sometimes reflect corners being cut elsewhere — less experienced crews, inadequate insurance, or hidden fees added later. Weigh price alongside reviews, services included, and how the company communicates before deciding.
Mistake #2: Accepting a Quote Without an In-Home (or Video) Walkthrough
A moving company generally can’t give you an accurate estimate over the phone alone, since pricing depends on the actual volume and weight of your belongings. Ask for an in-home visit or a video walkthrough so the estimate reflects your real inventory, not a rough guess.
Mistake #3: Only Getting One Quote
Getting estimates from a few different companies gives you a much better sense of fair pricing in your area, and helps you compare what’s actually included in each quote. It’s worth the extra time before committing to one company.
Mistake #4: Skipping the Research
A quality moving company generally has a track record you can check — online reviews, ratings, and how they respond to any negative feedback. A few minutes of research before booking can save you from an unpleasant surprise later.
Mistake #5: Not Planning Around Timing
When you move can affect both cost and difficulty. Summer weekends tend to be the busiest and most expensive time to book movers, while winter moves in Colorado come with their own challenge — snow and icy roads can affect scheduling and safety. Planning your move date with these factors in mind, and booking early, gives you more flexibility.
Mistake #6: Not Asking About Extra Fees
Stairs, long carry distances, bulky items, and additional stops can sometimes come with extra charges depending on the company. Ask directly about any fees that could apply to your specific move so your final bill doesn’t come as a surprise.
Mistake #7: Not Asking the Right Questions
Before booking, ask about their process for fragile or high-value items, their cancellation and rescheduling policy, how they handle delays, and what’s covered if something is damaged. A trustworthy company will answer clearly and directly.
Mistake #8: Skipping a Background Check
Checking a moving company’s complaint history and standing with organizations like the Better Business Bureau can help you spot red flags before you book, not after.
Mistake #9: Not Mentioning Unusual Situations in Advance
If your move involves a piano, a long or gravel driveway, a narrow stairwell, a gated community, or anything else out of the ordinary, tell your mover before move day. This gives them time to plan the right equipment and crew size, rather than improvising on the spot.
Mistake #10: Losing Track of Your Estimates
If you’re comparing multiple quotes, keep them organized — company name, price, what’s included, and any notes from your conversation. It’s easy to lose track of details between phone calls, and having everything written down makes comparing your options much easier.
Avoid the Guesswork
Hiring a mover doesn’t have to be complicated, but a little diligence upfront goes a long way toward a smooth experience. Parker Movers LLC provides written estimates and straightforward answers to your questions — request a quote today and see what a hassle-free hiring process looks like.