(Better Business Bureau )
This article was prepared for BBB Serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Coastal California by Lugg, Inc., a BBB Accredited Business.
Moving is stressful enough without worrying about surprise charges on moving day. Unfortunately, not all moving company quotes are created equal. Some estimates can miss key details, while others are low up front and higher once the truck is loaded up. From hourly rates to flat fees, understanding what’s included is key to avoiding unexpected charges on moving day. Here are five tips to help you read moving company quotes, spot red flags, and choose a mover you can trust.
1) Get your estimate in writing (and know the type)
Verbal quotes leave you without recourse if the price changes later. Ask for a written estimate that clearly lists services and fine details (home size, inventory, access, distance, etc.).
It is also important to understand the three common quote formats:
- Binding: The price is fixed for the listed services. This means the price you see is the price you pay.
- Non‑binding: The price may change based on actual weight/time. This starts with a base estimate and clear details on how variables like distance and time are billed.
- “Not‑to‑exceed”: You won’t pay more than the estimate if weight/time runs high, and you may pay less if it runs low.
A quote should be any combination of these to ensure that you and your mover have clear guidelines on how you will be billed. If a company won’t document the estimate, that’s a major red flag.
2) Ask what’s included and what isn’t
Surprise fees most often come from services that were never discussed. When comparing moving quotes, request an itemized list and clarify typical add‑ons:
- Stairs or elevator carries
- Long carries (distance from truck to door) and shuttle/parking constraints
- Packing and materials (boxes, tape, mattress bags, TV crates)
- Disassembly/reassembly of furniture and appliance handling
- Specialty items (safes, pianos, fitness equipment)
If you see vague line items like “service charge,” ask for plain‑English explanations in writing before you book. It is always helpful to ask beforehand and avoid a price shock later on.
3) Be cautious with large upfront deposits
While a small reservation fee can be normal, big cash deposits before any work is performed are a common scam marker. Prefer traceable payment methods (credit card over cash), and make sure the deposit and refund terms are spelled out on your estimate and confirmation. Trusted movers are transparent about when and how they collect payment, and provide detailed receipts.
4) Verify licensing, protection for your belongings, and BBB Accreditation
Low prices can mask risk. Before you sign, be sure to check:
- Licensing: For interstate moves, look up the mover’s U.S. DOT number. For local/intrastate moves, check your state’s mover licensing authority.
- Coverage: Ask what protection is included for your belongings (often called valuation coverage) and request documentation showing your options and limits.
- BBB check: Search the company’s BBB Business Profile to review complaint history, customer reviews, and whether the business is BBB Accredited. Accreditation signals a commitment to honesty, transparency, and responsiveness.
5) Compare more than just price
The cheapest estimate isn’t always the best value, and unusually low quotes can indicate a bait‑and‑switch. Create a simple comparison checklist for each mover:
- Clarity and detail of the written estimate
- Professionalism and responsiveness during Q&A
- What’s included vs. extra fees (in identical scenarios)
- Documented licensing and coverage options
- Customer feedback and BBB record
Aim to gather at least three written quotes so outliers are easy to spot.
Quick pre‑booking checklist
Before you say yes, make sure you have:
- A written, itemized estimate showing the estimate type (binding/non‑binding/not‑to‑exceed)
- Clear notes on access challenges (stairs, elevators, parking, long carries)
- Packaging/materials listed with quantities and rates
- Pickup/delivery windows and any change/cancellation terms in writing
- Licensing details, valuation coverage info, and a reviewed BBB profile
Final thoughts
A moving quote should bring peace of mind, not confusion. When estimates are written, itemized, and verifiable, you can compare options apples‑to‑apples and avoid surprise fees.
Take a few extra minutes to clarify what’s included, verify credentials, and review BBB information. You’ll be rewarded with a mover you can trust, and a move that stays on budget.
BBB Serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern Coastal California thanks Lugg, Inc. for sharing their expertise through this guest blog.
Visit BBB's moving HQ for more tips.