Moving Broker or Moving Company?!?

Moving Broker or Moving Company?!

Did you know that not all moving companies are actually movers? Some moving companies are simply a salesperson or sales team and do not employ a single mover nor own a single moving truck. We’ll break down the differences between working with an actual (asset based, as it’s known in the industry) moving company versus brokers- the pros and cons for each, and how to tell the difference when YOU are looking for a mover for your relocation.

               How to tell a Broker from actual Moving Company BEFORE move day:

There are a few things that will make it obvious to the trained eye, that you are talking to a broker and not an actual moving company. 

1.      There is no DOT or MC # on the website. These re registration and licensing numbers for those actually allowed to move your belongings

2.      They usually don’t offer an In Home estimate. They can’t- they are usually a sales office out of town or a remote team working from their homes.

3.      They require a large deposit and it sometimes won’t even apply to your actual charges. This should be a huge red flag, especially if it’s posed as a booking or reservation fee. 

4.      If the website offers multiple quote options. No Moving company can or would offer multiple instant quotes online, all from the same site. This is a clear indicator that they will sell off your booked move to whomever’ s rates match or are less than you agreed to pay. 

               Why choose a Moving Broker:

1.      You live in or are moving to a less serviced part of the country. Sometimes getting coverage in more rural areas can be all but impossible with traditional Moving Companies. The broker network opens up hard to service areas.

2.      Your relocation is last minute or during a particularly busy/ holiday time of year. Because moving brokers rely on multiple fleets of trucks- they are sometimes able to help in timeframes where traditional moving companies are unable to. 

3.      Your budget dictates that you find the absolute LOWEST price, not focused on quality, brand, or level of service. *Be careful with this, though- estimates and actual charges can be totally different numbers- leaving you with a bill you weren’t expecting AND cannot afford.

               Why choose a Moving Company:

1.      In Home Estimates! In Home quotes or surveys are the tried and true industry standard for good reason- they are the most accurate way to prepare an estimate/ quote and move plan. You are also more likely to remember and ask your questions, and able to better express your needs when meeting with a consultant in home

2.      Accountability. When you contract a traditional moving company for your move- they are bound by rules and regulations that a broker is not. They have a vested interest in you being a happy customer. 

3.      You have the opportunity to research the actual company that will be moving your belongings. Dig around, look at their social media, their reviews on Google and other reputable places like the BBB.

Neither moving companies nor moving brokers are right for everyone or every relocation but knowing WHICH you’re talking to will allow you to get comparable estimates, choose what is most important to YOU, and make the decision that will be best for your family.