The Do’s and Don’ts of Hiring a Professional Moving Company in SC

Moving can be an exciting adventure, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. Whether you’re moving across the street in South Carolina or to a different part of the state, hiring a professional moving company can make the entire process smoother and less stressful. But, like anything, there’s a right way and a wrong way to go about it. Knowing the do's and don’ts of hiring a moving company can save you time, money, and headaches on moving day.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential tips for hiring a moving company in South Carolina, with practical advice on what you should do (and avoid) to ensure you get the best experience.

Do’s: What to Look for When Hiring a Moving Company

1. Do Your Research and Read Reviews

Before committing to any moving company, it's essential to do your homework. Look for companies with a solid reputation, and check reviews on trusted platforms like Google, Yelp, or even the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Positive reviews from past customers can give you peace of mind and help you gauge the reliability of the company.

Tip: Check for reviews that specifically mention customer service, punctuality, and the condition of items post-move. These factors are key to your moving experience!

2. Do Request an In-Home Estimate

While getting a quote over the phone or online can be convenient, it’s not always the most accurate. A reputable moving company will offer a free in-home estimate to assess the size and scope of your move. This way, they can give you a more accurate idea of how much the move will cost and how much manpower will be needed.

Tip: During the in-home estimate, be sure to show the movers everything that needs to be packed and moved. Don’t forget to point out any particularly heavy or valuable items, like a piano or fragile antiques, so the company can provide an appropriate quote.

3. Do Verify Licensing and Insurance

In South Carolina (and all other states), moving companies are required to be licensed by the state and federal governments. This ensures that they follow proper regulations and standards when it comes to transporting your belongings. Always ask for the company's license number and check that it’s up to date.

Tip: You should also ask about their insurance coverage. A reliable moving company will offer insurance options to protect your belongings in case something goes wrong. Whether it’s damage during transport or loss, you want to ensure your items are covered.

4. Do Compare Prices and Services

When you’re hiring a moving company, it’s important to get quotes from multiple companies to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Don’t just go for the cheapest option, though—look at the services included in the price. Some moving companies may offer basic transport services, while others include packing, unpacking, or even temporary storage.

Tip: Understand exactly what’s included in the price and ensure that there are no hidden fees, such as charges for stairs, elevators, or bulky items.

5. Do Ask About Their Experience and Expertise

Experience matters when it comes to moving companies. A company with years of experience in the business will know how to handle your move efficiently, safely, and professionally. Look for movers who are experienced in handling various types of moves, whether it’s local, long-distance, or even commercial.

Tip: Ask how long the company has been in business, and inquire about their experience with moves similar to yours. A company that regularly moves items like yours will be better equipped to handle the challenges of your specific move.

Don’ts: What to Avoid When Hiring a Moving Company

1. Don’t Hire a Company Without a Contract

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is hiring a moving company without signing a formal contract. A written contract outlines everything from the scope of the move to the pricing, timeline, and any special instructions. Without a contract, there’s no guarantee that the company will fulfill its promises or that you’ll be protected if something goes wrong.

Tip: Carefully read the entire contract before signing. Make sure all agreed-upon details are listed, including the total price, delivery dates, and any additional services like packing or storage.

2. Don’t Forget to Declutter Before Your Move

It’s tempting to think that the moving company will just move everything, but that’s not always the case. You don’t want to waste time and money moving things you no longer need or use. Declutter your home before the movers arrive so you’re only transporting the truly necessary items.

Tip: Sort through your belongings well in advance. Donate or sell items you don’t need, and make arrangements for disposing of anything that can’t be donated. This will lighten your load and save you money on your move.

3. Don’t Choose a Company Based Solely on Price

We all want to save money, but choosing a moving company based only on the lowest price can lead to problems down the line. A cheaper moving company might offer a lower initial estimate, but they could have hidden fees or subpar services. Likewise, if a company offers an unusually low price, it could be a red flag that they don’t have the proper experience or insurance.

Tip: Go with a company that offers a balance of competitive pricing and high-quality service. While you want to stay within budget, don’t sacrifice quality for a few extra dollars.

4. Don’t Leave Fragile Items to Chance

Not all moving companies are equipped to handle fragile items like artwork, electronics, or fine china. It’s important to ask whether the company has experience packing and moving delicate items. If they don’t, you may need to consider special packing services or find another company that specializes in handling fragile goods. 

Tip: If your moving company doesn’t offer specialized packing services, consider packing fragile items yourself in protective materials like bubble wrap, foam, or padded boxes. At Highway Men Moving, we offer specialized packages designed to protect your most valuable possessions.

5. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is waiting until the last minute to hire your moving company. Moving companies, especially in high-demand areas like South Carolina, can get booked up quickly. If you wait too long, you might be stuck with limited options or higher prices due to last-minute availability.

Tip: Try to book your moving company at least a month in advance, especially if you’re planning to move during peak moving season (spring and summer). This will give you plenty of time to research companies, get quotes, and make the best decision for your needs.

Conclusion: Make Your Move Stress-Free with the Right Moving Company

Hiring a professional moving company in South Carolina doesn’t have to be a stressful process if you know what to look for and what to avoid. By doing your research, verifying licensing and insurance, getting multiple quotes, and ensuring that everything is in writing, you can make sure your move goes off without a hitch. And by following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and successful moving experience.

At Highway Men Moving LLC, we pride ourselves on providing reliable, affordable, and efficient moving services for residents all over South Carolina. Whether you’re moving locally in Columbia, Charleston, or Greenville or you’re making a long-distance move within the state, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today for a free quote, and let us take the stress out of your next move!