Choosing the right moving company can make the difference between a stressful move and a smooth, successful transition. Whether you're planning a local move within the same city or relocating across the country, working with a trusted moving company in Winnipeg can make all the difference. With numerous online companies competing for attention, it can be challenging to identify those that are truly licensed and insured, offer quality service, and are a legitimate business. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider so you can hire movers confidently, avoiding red flags and ensuring your next move is handled by a reliable moving company you can trust:

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Start With Research

The first step in finding the right moving company is to do your homework. A bit of upfront research can save you time, stress, and even money in the long run. To avoid falling for scams or unqualified providers, take a closer look at multiple companies before making your decision. This means gathering personal recommendations, reading online reviews, and verifying that you're dealing with a licensed and insured business. Below are the key research steps to help you identify a reputable moving company that aligns with your needs and delivers exceptional service:

Ask For Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a reputable moving company is through trusted referrals. Ask family members, friends, coworkers, or neighbours if they’ve recently moved and had a positive experience. Personal experiences often reveal details you won’t find online and can help you avoid major red flags. If multiple people mention the same moving company, it’s a good sign you’re on the right track.

Look For Online Reviews & Ratings

Online reviews are a powerful tool in evaluating reputable movers. Pay attention to customer feedback on platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. These reviews can highlight how the company handles problems, meets deadlines, and communicates throughout the process.

Check if the company responds to complaints and consistently delivers dependable, professional support. The most reputable moving companies typically have high ratings and clear, professional responses to negative feedback. Be cautious of movers with little online presence or only perfect reviews, which can sometimes be a red flag.

Check The Company's Website & Social Media

A professional company should have a clean, informative website that clearly outlines its moving services, packing and unpacking options, and any additional services, such as furniture disassembly and assembly. You should be able to find key information, such as whether it is licensed and insured, its physical address, and an overview of its professional moving team.

Also, check its social media accounts. Active pages with updates, photos, or responses to customer comments signal a legitimate business that takes its reputation seriously. If you can’t find any details about the moving company's track record, team, or services, consider it another red flag.

Verify Credentials

Before you move forward with any company, it’s critical to verify its credentials. Choosing a licensed and insured business is one of the most important ways to protect yourself during the moving process. Beyond that, make sure you’re working with a legitimate business that maintains transparency and accountability. The following steps will help you confirm you’re dealing with a reliable moving company and not one of the many questionable operations that exist in the industry:

Ensure Proper Licensing & Insurance

Always verify that the company is licensed and insured. This confirms you're working with a legitimate business that meets legal requirements. For in-province moves, check with your local consumer protection agency or consumer affairs office. For interprovincial moves, confirm federal registration.

Ask for proof of liability coverage and licensing; any reliable company should provide it without hesitation. Avoid movers who are unclear or reluctant to share this information.

Check For Membership In Professional Associations

Membership in industry groups like the Canadian Association of Movers or listings with the Better Business Bureau show that a mover is committed to ethical practices. While not mandatory, these affiliations indicate you’re dealing with a reliable company that values accountability and customer trust.

Confirm Their Physical Address

A reputable moving company should have a verifiable business address, not just a website or phone number. Confirm the moving company’s address through its website and cross-check it using Google Maps or the Better Business Bureau. This step helps you avoid working with companies that operate without a real location, which is often a sign of a business lacking transparency.

If a mover refuses to provide a physical location or only offers a P.O. Box, it’s best to continue your search elsewhere.

Get Multiple Quotes

To find the right mover for your needs, don’t settle for the first estimate you receive. Reach out to several reputable companies and compare not only their pricing but also the scope of their moving services. Obtaining multiple quotes helps you identify unusually high fees or unclear terms that could lead to unexpected expenses on moving day.

A trusted provider will offer transparent pricing, clearly explain its services, and provide a written quote. Whether you’re planning a local move or a long-distance move, comparing offers gives you the insight needed to save money and choose the option that best fits your budget and expectations.

Request In-Home Estimates

Whenever possible, ask for an in-home or virtual walkthrough before accepting a quote. A reliable mover should assess your moving inventory in person to provide an accurate estimate. This includes evaluating packing materials, large items that may need furniture disassembly, and any special handling requirements.

Avoid companies that only give quotes over the phone without seeing your belongings; they’re more likely to miss key details or add additional fees later. A reputable company will take the time to understand your moving requirements upfront and offer a written estimate that reflects the actual scope of work.

Compare Pricing & Services Offered

Once you’ve gathered several estimates, take time to compare more than just the numbers. Look at what each moving company includes in its service. Are packing costs, furniture assembly, or additional services like packing and unpacking included? Does the company provide its own moving supplies, or will you need to purchase them separately?

A lower price might not always mean better value if key services are excluded. On the other hand, a more expensive quote may offer better insurance coverage, more experienced movers, and/or higher-quality materials.

Be sure also to review each mover’s hourly rate, any potential upcharges, and how it handles specialty items. Comparing these factors will help you identify a reliable moving company that offers competitive rates and consistently delivers reliable results.

Watch Out For Red Flags In Quotes

As you review quotes, be cautious of companies that demand cash payments, ask for a large cash deposit, or require money upfront before any services are provided. These practices can signal a company that isn’t committed to accountability or customer satisfaction.

Also, watch for vague terms or missing details in a blank moving contract; every estimate should clearly outline the moving services, timeline, and any additional costs. If the pricing seems too good to be true or you’re pressured to book immediately, consider it a sign to proceed with care.

A professional company will offer a well-documented agreement, explain all charges clearly, and stand by its quote. Taking time to review each proposal carefully helps you avoid problems down the line and ensures a successful move.

Assess Experience And Expertise

A mover’s experience can directly impact the success of your relocation. A reputable moving company with years in the business is more likely to handle your belongings professionally, navigate logistics smoothly, and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you're planning local moves, long-distance moves, or dealing with specialty items, it's essential to choose a team of professional movers with the right background.

As you evaluate your options, ask how long the company has been operating, whether it has handled similar moving needs, and how it approaches unique challenges. A mover’s expertise can be the difference between a stressful day and a seamless, relaxing move.

Look For Experience In Your Type Of Move

Not all moving companies are equipped to handle every kind of move. Whether you’re relocating across town, managing inter-provincial moves, or planning a complex office move, it’s crucial to choose a reputable moving company with proven experience in that specific area.

Ask if it’s completed moves similar to yours, especially if you have specialty items like antiques, pianos, or heavy furniture requiring furniture disassembly and reassembly. A mover familiar with your needs is more likely to provide quality service, avoid delays, and help ensure a successful move from start to finish.

Ask About Handling Of Special Items

If you have delicate, oversized, or high-value items, like artwork, gym equipment, or fragile electronics, be sure to ask how the moving company handles them. Professional movers should have a transparent process for protecting specialty belongings, including access to proper packing materials, custom crates, and additional services such as furniture disassembly and careful reassembly.

A reliable moving company will explain how it plans to move these items safely, what equipment it'll use, and whether insurance coverage applies. This extra step helps you avoid damage and gives you confidence that your valuables are in capable hands.

Check For Availability On Your Moving Date

Before committing, confirm that the moving company is available on your preferred date, especially if you're moving during peak season or on short notice. Reliable movers tend to book up quickly, so early communication is key.

Also, ask whether the availability includes flexible scheduling or additional services like weekend moves or after-hours support. A professional company that can accommodate your timeline shows strong organizational skills and a commitment to your moving needs.

Evaluate Customer Service

A reputable moving company isn’t just defined by its trucks or equipment; it’s defined by how it treats its customers. From your first interaction, pay attention to how responsive, helpful, and professional the company is. Strong customer service often reflects a company's ability to manage the entire process, from initial contact to final delivery.

Before you hire movers, assess their communication style, willingness to answer questions, and how they handle concerns or disputes. A team that values customer relationships is more likely to deliver a quality moving experience and handle any unexpected issues with professionalism.

Test Responsiveness & Communication

A professional company should reply quickly and clearly to questions. Delayed or vague responses can indicate poor service. Choose a moving company that communicates well—it’s essential for a smooth and successful move.

Inquire About Their Dispute Resolution Process

Ask how the moving company handles complaints or damage claims. A straightforward dispute process shows it takes accountability seriously. Reputable movers should explain your options and outline how issues are resolved.

Gauge Their Willingness To Answer Questions

A reliable moving company should be open to all your questions about pricing, timing, insurance coverage, and additional services. If it’s evasive or impatient, consider that a sign to look elsewhere.

Understand The Contract

Before signing anything, carefully review the moving contract to ensure you understand its terms. A reputable moving company will provide written terms that clearly outline services, pricing, and timelines. Avoid agreeing to a blank moving contract, as it leaves room for unexpected charges or missing details.

Understanding your agreement is crucial to avoiding disputes, identifying additional costs, and ensuring that your insurance coverage is clearly explained.

Review All Terms & Conditions Carefully

Read the whole contract before signing. Ensure that the moving services, dates, and pricing, including any hourly rate or additional services, are clearly listed. A quality moving company won’t rush you through this step.

Check For Hidden Fees

Watch for vague charges or unclear language about packing costs, fuel surcharges, or stair fees. Reputable moving companies will break down all potential additional costs up front to avoid surprises on moving day.

Ensure Clarity On Insurance Coverage

Confirm what coverage is included and what’s optional. A licensed and insured mover should explain your liability options and what happens if items are lost or damaged during the move.

Make Your Decision

Once you’ve reviewed quotes, verified credentials, and assessed service quality, choose the right moving company based on overall value, not just price. Look for a balance of clear communication, strong reviews, and a history of reliable movers providing quality service. A little extra research ensures a smoother and more successful move with fewer surprises.

Conclusion

Choosing the right moving company isn’t just about cost; it’s about trust, experience, and peace of mind. Whether you're moving across the street or across the province, working with a reputable moving company that’s licensed and insured makes all the difference.

Take the time to do your research, ask questions, and compare your options. When you're ready to make your move, hire professional movers who are committed to meeting your moving needs and delivering a smooth, stress-free experience.

Ready for a smooth, stress-free move? Book your relocation with Globe Moving & Storage Ltd. today and get a free moving quote from our trusted team.