The Ultimate Checklist Before Hiring a Boston Moving Company

Make your next move in Boston smooth, smart, and stress-free.

Relocating can be one of the most exciting yet challenging experiences. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, choosing the right moving company in Boston is crucial to ensuring a stress-free transition. With dozens of options available, how can you be certain you’re making the best choice?

To help you navigate this important decision, we’ve compiled The Ultimate Checklist Before Hiring a Boston Moving Company, a comprehensive guide to streamline your search and avoid moving mishaps.

1. Determine Your Moving Needs

Before reaching out to moving companies, assess the details of your move. Ask yourself:

• Am I moving locally or long-distance?
• Do I need help packing and unpacking?
• Will I require short- or long-term storage?
• Do I have fragile or specialty items like antiques, pianos, or artwork?

Understanding your unique needs will help you narrow your options and communicate effectively with potential movers.

2. Research and Compare Boston Moving Companies

Boston is home to many moving companies, but not all are created equal. Do your due diligence:

• Read Online Reviews: Check Google, Yelp, BBB, and other trusted review platforms.
• Visit Their Website: Look for professionalism, clarity in services, and contact information.
• Ask for Referrals: Friends, neighbors, or coworkers may have valuable recommendations.

Compare services, rates, and customer feedback to create a shortlist of reputable companies.

3. Check Licensing and Insurance

This is non-negotiable. You want a licensed and insured moving company to protect your belongings and avoid legal headaches.

• For interstate moves, verify their U.S. DOT number via the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• For local Boston moves, ensure they comply with Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities regulations.
• Confirm they offer liability coverage and insurance options for damaged or lost items.

4. Ask About Experience and Expertise

A well-established company with years of experience is often better equipped to handle complex moving scenarios.

• How long have they been in business?
• Do they specialize in residential, commercial, or long-distance moves?
• Do they have experience with Boston’s unique challenges, like narrow streets, parking restrictions, and historic buildings?

Hiring a team that understands the Boston area can save you from major delays and complications.

5. Get a Written In-Home or Virtual Estimate

Avoid surprises on moving day by asking for a detailed estimate based on an assessment of your inventory.

• A reputable Boston moving company will offer free in-home or virtual estimates.
• Make sure the estimate includes all fees: labor, packing materials, transportation, storage (if any), and potential surcharges.
• Ask if it’s binding (fixed) or non-binding (subject to change).

Get at least three estimates for a fair comparison.

6. Understand Their Pricing Structure

Not all moves are priced the same. Be clear about how the company charges:

• Hourly rates for local moves.
• Flat-rate or weight-based pricing for long-distance moves.
• Additional fees for stairs, elevators, long carries, or bulky items.

Ask if there are weekend or holiday premiums and if gratuity is included in the quote.

7. Review Their Services in Detail

Look beyond just transportation. Quality movers offer comprehensive services, such as

• Packing and unpacking
• Furniture disassembly and reassembly
• Crating for fragile or specialty items
• Storage solutions (short or long term)
• Eco-friendly packing options

Confirm what is included in the standard package and what’s considered an add-on.

8. Verify Their Availability and Flexibility

Boston is a busy city, especially during summer (peak moving season) and end-of-month transitions. Ask:

• Are they available on your desired moving date?
• What’s their cancellation or rescheduling policy?
• Do they offer last-minute or emergency moving services?

Booking in advance ensures more availability and better rates.

9. Check for Red Flags

Some moving companies give the industry a bad name. Be alert to:

• Vague estimates or refusal to provide written documentation
• Demanding large cash deposits upfront
• Lack of branding or physical office address
• Pushy or evasive responses to your questions

If something feels off, trust your gut and move on.

10. Evaluate Customer Service

Customer service speaks volumes about a company’s professionalism. When you contact them:

• Are they prompt, friendly, and informative?
• Do they answer all your questions without hesitation?
• Are their team members trained, uniformed, and respectful?

Great customer service before the move often reflects a smoother experience on a moving day.

11. Ask About Damage Claims Process

Even with the best movers, accidents can happen. Before hiring, clarify:

• What’s the process for filing a damage or loss claim?
• What documentation will be required?
• How long does it take to process and resolve claims?

A transparent policy gives you peace of mind.

12. Read the Contract Thoroughly

Before signing anything, carefully review the moving contract or Bill of Lading. Ensure it includes:

• Pick-up and delivery dates
• Inventory of items to be moved
• Pricing details and payment terms
• Liability coverage and claims process
• Cancellation policy

Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or request changes if something doesn’t look right.

Why a Boston Moving Company Like Marathon Moving Makes a Difference

When it comes to moving in or out of Boston, working with a local, experienced, and licensed moving company can make all the difference. That’s where Marathon Moving steps in.

With years of experience navigating Boston’s historic neighborhoods and busy streets, Marathon Moving is the trusted partner for both local and long-distance relocations.

Whether you’re downsizing to a Beacon Hill apartment, expanding your business in Cambridge, or relocating across the country, Marathon Moving offers:

• Local expertise with a trained and courteous crew
• Reliable long-distance moving solutions
• Affordable, transparent pricing
• Modern equipment and clean moving trucks
• Packing, storage, and specialty services

Final Checklist Summary Before Hiring

Define Your Needs: Local vs. long-distance, packing, storage

Research company reviews, referrals, and websites.

Verify Credentials, Licenses, insurance, years in business

Get Written Estimates. Compare multiple quotes.

Ask About Services. Packaging, storage, and specialty items

Understand Pricing: Transparent, all-inclusive rates

Review Policies, Damage claims, rescheduling

Read the contract; no surprises later.

Ready to Move? Make It a Marathon, Not a Sprint.

Don’t let moving day catch you off guard. Marathon Moving is here to make your move easy and stress-free.

Whether you’re searching for trusted Boston movers, experienced long-distance movers in Boston, or a professional Boston moving company, Marathon Moving is your go-to solution.

Contact Marathon Moving today.
Visit https://marathonmoving.com
Serving Boston and beyond with pride and professionalism!