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Tips on Hiring a Mover

Moving can be stressful, but properly preparing and ensuring you’re working with a good mover can help. Check out the following tips to help you with your next interstate move.

  • Know the difference between a mover and a broker.  A mover or motor carrier, handle the actual transportation and delivery of goods.  A broker is an intermediary that arranges the household move.  Brokers do not assume responsibility for the household goods, nor are they authorized to transport them.
  • Movers and brokers that conduct interstate moves (from one state to another) must be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.  Check an interstate mover’s license by visiting: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move and click on “Research your Move”.
  • Movers and brokers conducting intrastate moves (within Florida) must be licensed and registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.  Determine whether a company is properly licensed and registered by visiting Consumer Resources / Home – Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (fdacs.gov) and click on “Business Search”.
  • Ask friends and family for recommendations and then research the companies you’re considering.  It is recommended that you have at least three moving companies evaluate the items being moved to provide an accurate estimate.  Interstate movers must provide an estimate based upon an on-site or virtual survey of the household goods to be transported unless you waive this requirement in writing.
  • Read all documents thoroughly before signing and make sure it includes all items agreed upon, moving and delivery date, delivery address, charges for packing, assembling furniture, mileage, stair/elevator charges, and any cancellation or dispute policies.
  • Create an inventory list of the items being moved before the movers arrive and document the condition of the items with photos or video.  This documentation will be helpful if something is lost or damaged in the move.
  • Typically, the financial reimbursement for lost or damaged items is limited to $0.60 per pound.  Additional coverage is available for an additional fee.
  • Consider personally moving important items, such as medications, important documents, valuables, or items needed upon arrival.
  • For more information on Intrastate moves, view Scams at a Glance: On the Move brochure at: Movers_Scams at a Glance_v4.ai (myfloridalegal.com)
  • For more information on Interstate moves, view Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move brochure at: Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move (dot.gov)
  • To file a complaint against a mover or broker, or to check the complaint history of a business, call Pinellas County Consumer Protection at (727) 464-6200 or visit Consumer Protection.