How to Hire Movers
How to Hire Movers Without Being Scammed, Robbed, or Left Stranded on Moving Day
The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Yourself While Finding Reliable Moving Help
Want to know how to hire movers without getting ripped off?
It's simple: hire a trusted, well-reviewed company like Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving. With over 75 five-star reviews, they've helped countless families move safely.
But if you're still worried about How to Hire Movers Without Being Scammed, Robbed, or Left Stranded on Moving Day, keep reading this complete guide.
We'll show you exactly what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to make sure your belongings arrive safely at your new home.
Picture this: It's moving day. The truck was supposed to arrive at 8 AM. It's now noon. Your calls go straight to voicemail. Your lease ends today. Panic sets in as you realize you might have been scammed.
This nightmare scenario happens to thousands of Americans every year.
But it doesn't have to happen to YOU.
Why Most People Get Scammed When Hiring Movers
Let's face it.
Most people don't know the first thing about how to hire movers.
They do a quick Google search, call the first company that pops up, and book them without asking any questions.
BIG MISTAKE.
The moving industry is filled with scammers waiting to take advantage of people who don't know any better.
These fly-by-night operations know you're stressed about moving.
They know you want the cheapest price. And they use this against you.
How?
They give you a super low estimate over the phone. Then on moving day, they jack up the price. Sometimes they even hold your stuff hostage until you pay!
Sound scary? It should.
But there's good news...
The Fool-Proof System For Hiring Honest Movers
Jae Burnham, owner of Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, has seen it all in the moving business.
As a YouTube influencer and published author, he's made it his mission to educate people on how to avoid moving scams.
"Most people spend more time researching which TV to buy than which moving company to trust with everything they own," says Burnham.
Here's his step-by-step system for hiring movers you can trust:
Step 1: Start Your Search Early
Don't wait until the last minute to find movers. Good moving companies get booked up fast, especially during peak moving season (May through September).
Start looking at least 6-8 weeks before your move date. This gives you plenty of time to research companies, read reviews, and get multiple quotes.
If you wait until the week before, you'll be stuck with whatever company has availability—and that's often the scammers who can't book legitimate jobs.
Step 2: Ask Friends and Family for Recommendations
Word-of-mouth is still the best way to find trustworthy service providers. Ask your friends, family, and coworkers if they've used a moving company they liked.
But don't stop there! Just because your cousin had a good experience doesn't mean you shouldn't do your own research.
Step 3: Check Reviews and Credentials
A legitimate moving company should have:
A real physical address (not a P.O. box)
A USDOT number (for interstate movers)
State licensing (for local movers)
Mostly positive reviews online
Look at Google, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, and moving-specific sites like Moving Helper.
Don't just look at the star rating—read the actual reviews!
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving has over 75 five-star reviews across Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper. That's the kind of track record you want to see.
Step 4: Get At Least Three In-Home Estimates
Never accept an estimate over the phone or online.
Reputable movers will want to see your stuff in person (or at least via video chat) before giving you a price.
Why? Because they need to see:
How much stuff you have
If there are stairs or elevators
If there are large or specialty items
If there are access issues (narrow doorways, long carries, etc.)
Get at least three estimates from different companies.
This helps you spot if one is way too low (a red flag for a scam) or way too high (a ripoff).
Step 5: Ask These Critical Questions
When the estimator comes to your home, hit them with these questions:
"How long has your company been in business?" Newer isn't always bad, but experience matters. Mr. BigStuff was founded in January 2024, but Jae Burnham has years of experience in the industry.
"Do you use subcontractors or your own employees?" Companies that use their own employees generally provide better service than those who hire day laborers.
"What type of estimate are you providing?"
Binding: They can't charge more than the quoted price
Non-binding: The final price can increase
Not-to-exceed: The price can go down but not up
Click here to get my guide on Binding vs Non-Binding estimates.
"What's your policy if something gets damaged?" They should clearly explain their claims process and insurance options.
"What forms of payment do you accept?" Be wary of companies that only take cash or require large deposits upfront.
"Can I get this quote in writing?" ALWAYS get a written estimate that includes all fees and services. Click here to get my guide on Moving Company Hidden Fees
Step 6: Watch Out For These Red Flags
Run away if a moving company:
Asks for a large deposit (more than 20% of the total)
Doesn't have a physical address
Shows up in a rented truck with no company logo
Won't provide a written estimate
Gives an estimate that seems too good to be true
Doesn't mention insurance or glosses over it
Has lots of negative reviews or complaints
Changes the price drastically from the estimate
Doesn't have proper licensing
The Hidden Psychology Behind Moving Scams
Scammers know that moving is one of the most stressful life events.
They count on you being too overwhelmed to do proper research.
They use psychological tricks like:
Artificial scarcity: "We only have one spot left that day!"
False urgency: "This price is only good if you book today!"
Bait and switch: Quoting one price, then raising it after they have your stuff
Appealing to your desire to save money with unrealistically low quotes
Don't fall for these tricks!
A good moving company like Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving will give you time to think and won't pressure you into booking.
Local vs. Long-Distance Moves: What's Different?
The process for hiring movers changes a bit depending on whether you're moving locally or long-distance.
Local Moves (Under 50 Miles)
For local moves, companies typically charge by the hour. The rate depends on how many movers you need and sometimes the day of the week (weekends often cost more).
Local movers need to be licensed in your state, but requirements vary. In Michigan, where Mr. BigStuff operates, local movers must be registered with the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Long-Distance Moves (Over 50 Miles)
Long-distance movers usually charge based on:
The weight of your shipment
The distance traveled
Additional services (packing, specialty items, etc.)
Interstate movers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number.
Whether local or long-distance, Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving has you covered. They handle moves of all sizes throughout Michigan and beyond.
Common Moving Services - What Do You Really Need?
Moving companies offer various services beyond just transporting your stuff. Understanding what's available helps you choose what you actually need:
Basic Transportation
This is the most affordable option. The movers just load, transport, and unload your pre-packed boxes and furniture.
Full-Service Moving
This premium option includes:
Loading the truck
Transporting everything
Unloading at the destination
Reassembling furniture
Unpacking (sometimes)
Specialty Items
Some items require special handling:
Pianos
Pool tables
Antiques
Art and sculptures
Hot tubs
Gun safes
Make sure your mover has experience with your specialty items.
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving has the expertise to handle even the most challenging items safely.
Storage
If your new home isn't ready yet, you might need storage.
Some moving companies offer their own storage facilities, while others work with third-party providers.
Understanding Moving Costs: What You'll Pay For
Moving costs can be confusing. Here's what affects the price:
For Local Moves:
Hourly rate × number of movers × hours needed
Travel fee (to get to your home)
Materials (boxes, tape, etc. if not bringing your own)
Extra charges for specialty items
Stair or elevator fees
Long carry fees (if the truck can't park close to your door)
For Long-Distance Moves:
Weight of your shipment
Distance traveled
Packing services (if requested)
Insurance
Specialty items
Storage (if needed)
Additional stops
Hidden Fees to Watch For:
Weekend or holiday surcharges
Fuel surcharges
Stair fees
Elevator fees
Long carry fees
Bulky item fees
Packing material fees
Storage fees
Expedited delivery fees
A reputable company like Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving will disclose ALL potential fees upfront. No surprises on moving day!
Why Insurance Matters More Than You Think
Many people skip over the insurance discussion when hiring movers.
BIG MISTAKE.
Standard moving coverage (called "released value protection") only pays $0.60 per pound per item.
That means if your 50-pound TV worth $1,000 gets broken, you'd only get $30!
Ask about "full value protection," which covers the actual replacement value of damaged items. It costs more but gives you real peace of mind.
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving offers comprehensive insurance options to protect your valuable belongings.
Just ask about their coverage when you call for a quote: (517) 948-0894.
The Moving Day Checklist: Be Prepared When Movers Arrive
To ensure a smooth moving day:
Be packed and ready (unless you've paid for packing services)
Clear pathways in your home
Remove anything you're taking with you (important documents, medications, valuables)
Have payment ready in the proper form
Have snacks and water available (happy movers = careful movers)
Keep kids and pets out of the way
Be available to answer questions
Have a floor plan of your new place to direct furniture placement
Click here for my massive 8-week, 72-point comprehensive foolproof Moving Checklist
What to Do If Things Go Wrong
Even with the best planning, problems can happen.
Here's what to do:
If the Movers Are Late:
Call the company office (not just your sales person)
Ask for an updated arrival time
Get confirmation they're still coming
If the Price Suddenly Increases:
Refer to your written estimate
Ask for an explanation of the additional charges
Request to speak to a manager
If it's a significant increase, contact local authorities
If Items Are Damaged:
Document everything with photos
Note the damage on the inventory sheet before signing
File a claim immediately (most companies have deadlines)
Follow up in writing
If It's a Complete Scam:
Contact local police
File a complaint with the FMCSA (for interstate moves)
Report them to the Better Business Bureau
Leave honest reviews to warn others
With Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, you won't have these problems.
Their professional team is committed to making your move stress-free from start to finish.
Moving Supplies: What You Need and Where to Get Them
Proper packing supplies protect your belongings.
Here's what you'll need:
Sturdy boxes in various sizes
Packing paper (not newspaper, which can stain)
Bubble wrap for fragile items
Packing tape (not masking or duct tape)
Furniture blankets or pads
Mattress covers
Stretch wrap for furniture
Specialty boxes for artwork, TVs, etc.
Markers for labeling
Dolly or hand truck
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving can provide all the supplies you need, saving you the hassle of shopping around.
Just ask when you book your move!
The Best Time to Move: Saving Money by Being Strategic
Moving costs vary throughout the year.
If you're flexible with your dates, you can save money by moving during off-peak times:
Most Expensive Times to Move:
Summer months (May-September)
First and last days of the month
Weekends
Holidays
Most Affordable Times to Move:
October-April (excluding December)
Mid-month
Weekdays
Early morning appointments
Ask Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving about any seasonal promotions they're running when you call for a quote.
How to Pack Like a Pro (Or Hire Someone Who Does)
Good packing is crucial for protecting your belongings.
Here are some pro tips:
Start early - pack non-essentials weeks in advance
Use the right size boxes (heavy items in small boxes, light items in large boxes)
Fill boxes completely to prevent crushing
Wrap fragile items individually
Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room
Pack a "first night" box with essentials
Take photos of electronic setups before disconnecting
Or save yourself the hassle and hire professionals!
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving offers expert packing services that ensure your items arrive safely.
Why Cheap Movers Usually Cost More in the End
Cheap movers ain't good. And Good Movers ain't cheap!
It's tempting to go with the lowest bid, but that often leads to:
Damaged furniture
Lost items
Hidden fees
Delays
Stress and frustration
A quality moving company like Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving might not be the cheapest option upfront, but they provide value through:
Professional, trained movers
Proper equipment and vehicles
Adequate insurance
Reliable service
Accountability
Peace of mind
The Tech Revolution in Moving: Apps and Tools That Help
The moving industry has gone high-tech.
Look for companies that offer:
Online booking and tracking
Digital inventories
Virtual surveys for estimates
GPS tracking of your shipment
Electronic bill of lading
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving uses cutting-edge technology to make your move efficient and transparent.
Visit their website at https://justthebigstuff.com to learn more about their tech-forward approach.
Special Situations: Apartments, Pianos, and Other Moving Challenges
Apartment Moves
Apartment moves present unique challenges:
Limited elevator access
Narrow stairways
Strict moving hours
Security deposits at risk
Make sure your moving company has experience with apartments.
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving specializes in apartment moves and knows how to navigate these challenges.
Piano Moving
Pianos require specialized knowledge and equipment. Never trust your piano to general movers without piano experience. Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving has the expertise to move pianos safely.
Other Special Items
Items that need special attention include:
Pool tables
Hot tubs
Large safes
Antiques
Art collections
Aquariums
Always discuss these items when getting estimates.
Moving with Kids and Pets: Keeping Everyone Safe and Happy
Moving is stressful for the whole family, including four-legged members.
Plan ahead:
For Kids:
Involve them in age-appropriate ways
Arrange childcare for moving day
Pack a special bag of their favorite toys
Maintain routines as much as possible
Click Here for my special guide How to Help Kids Adjust to Moving
For Pets:
Keep them in a quiet room during loading
Consider boarding on moving day
Update ID tags before the move
Transport them yourself, not in the moving truck
Tipping Your Movers: The Complete Guide
Tipping shows appreciation for hard work.
General guidelines:
For a half-day move (4 hours or less): $20 per mover
For a full-day move (8 hours): $50 per mover
For multi-day moves: $50-60 per mover per day
Increase tips for exceptional service, difficult moves, or extreme weather conditions.
While tipping is never required, the hardworking crew at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving always appreciates recognition of their efforts to make your move smooth and stress-free.
How to Create a Moving Budget That Actually Works
Moving costs add up quickly.
Create a comprehensive budget that includes:
Moving company fees
Packing supplies
Insurance
Storage (if needed)
Travel expenses to your new home
Utility deposits and connection fees
First month's rent/mortgage payment
New furniture or appliances
Cleaning services
Food during the move
Time off work
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving provides clear, detailed estimates to help you budget accurately for your move.
The Ultimate Moving Timeline: What to Do and When
Follow this timeline for a stress-free move:
8 Weeks Before:
Research moving companies
Get in-home estimates
Create a moving budget
Start decluttering
6 Weeks Before:
Book your movers
Order supplies
Start packing non-essentials
Create an inventory of valuable items
4 Weeks Before:
Notify utilities at both locations
Change your address with USPS
Notify important parties of your move (bank, employer, schools, etc.)
Continue packing
2 Weeks Before:
Confirm details with your moving company
Arrange for pet and plant transportation
Clean out the refrigerator and pantry
Pack most items, leaving only essentials
1 Week Before:
Pack a "first night" box
Disassemble furniture that needs it
Confirm payment method for movers
Clean your old home
Moving Day:
Do a final walkthrough before movers leave
Check the truck is properly loaded
Sign the inventory list
Keep important documents with you
Why Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving is Different
In an industry plagued by scams and poor service, Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving stands out:
Founded by Jae Burnham, a respected YouTube influencer and published author
Over 75 five-star reviews on Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Professionally trained, background-checked employees
Modern equipment and vehicles
Comprehensive insurance options
Specialty item expertise
Local knowledge as a Michigan-based company
Commitment to customer satisfaction
Real Customer Stories: Moving Made Easy
Sarah from Lansing shares her experience:
"After being scammed by another company, I was nervous about hiring movers again. Mr. BigStuff was recommended by a friend, and they restored my faith in moving companies! The crew was on time, professional, and careful with my things. Nothing was damaged, and the price matched the estimate exactly. I can't recommend them enough!"
And Mark from Grand Rapids adds:
"Moving my four-bedroom house seemed overwhelming, but Mr. BigStuff made it simple. They packed everything so efficiently and handled my antique furniture with extreme care. Worth every penny for the stress they saved me!"
Ready for a Stress-Free Move? Here's How to Book Mr. BigStuff
Don't risk your valuable belongings with untested movers.
Choose the company with a proven track record of excellence.
Booking your move with Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving is easy:
Call (517) 948-0894 for a free quote
Schedule your in-home estimate
Secure your moving date with a small deposit
Relax knowing your move is in good hands
Visit https://justthebigstuff.com to learn more about their services and see why they're Michigan's most trusted moving company.
The Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving Guarantee
Mr. BigStuff stands behind their service with these guarantees:
On-time arrival or they'll reduce your hourly rate
No hidden fees - you pay what's on your estimate
Careful handling of your belongings or they'll make it right
Professional, courteous service from start to finish
Full transparency throughout the moving process
Final Thoughts: Your Peace of Mind Is Worth It
When it comes to moving your life's possessions, cutting corners to save a few bucks isn't worth the risk.
The stress, potential damage, and hassle of dealing with unprofessional movers far outweigh any upfront savings.
By following the advice in this guide and choosing a reputable company like Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free transition to your new home.
Remember, how to hire movers without getting scammed comes down to research, verification, and choosing a company with a proven track record of excellence.
Ready to Book Your Move?
Don't wait until the last minute and get stuck with whatever company has availability. The best movers book up fast!
Call Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving today at (517) 948-0894 or visit https://justthebigstuff.com to schedule your free in-home estimate.
Your stress-free move is just a phone call away!
