A man leaning down with his head in his hands while realizing several mistakes he made during his move in Philadelphia, PA

Moving to a new home can be exciting, but hiring the wrong movers can turn it into a stressful experience. Many people make costly mistakes when choosing moving companies in Philadelphia, leading to unexpected fees, delays, or even damaged belongings.

To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve outlined the most common mistakes and how to prevent them. We’ve also compiled a
moving checklist for you in our moving articles to help you plan your big move.

  1. Not Researching Moving Companies Thoroughly

    One of the biggest mistakes people make is hiring a moving company without doing proper research. Choosing the first company you find can result in poor service or even scams. Before making a decision:

    • Read online reviews and ratings on platforms like Google and Yelp.
    • Check if the company is licensed and insured.
    • Ask for recommendations from friends or family.

    Taking the time to vet moving companies in Philadelphia ensures you hire a reputable and professional team.

  2. Getting Only One Estimate

    Another common mistake is failing to compare quotes from multiple moving companies. Prices and services can vary significantly, so it’s important to:

    • Get at least three estimates.
    • Request an in-home or virtual survey for accurate pricing.
    • Be wary of estimates that seem too good to be true.

    Comparing quotes helps you find a balance between affordability and quality service.

  3. Not Asking About Hidden Fees

    Some moving companies may add extra charges that aren’t included in the initial estimate. To avoid unexpected costs, always ask about:

    • Charges for stairs, elevators, or long carry distances.
    • Fees for last-minute schedule changes.
    • Additional costs for packing materials or services.

    A reputable moving company will provide a transparent breakdown of costs upfront. You can find a quick breakdown of our pricing on our moving resources page and easily get a quote today!

  4. Packing Poorly or Last Minute

    Packing is one of the most time-consuming aspects of moving, and rushing the process can lead to damaged belongings or added stress. Avoid this mistake by:

    • Starting to pack well in advance.
    • Using quality packing materials for fragile items.
    • Labeling boxes clearly for easy unpacking.

    If packing feels overwhelming, consider professional packing services from a trusted Philadelphia moving company like Broad Street Movers.

  5. Not Checking Insurance and Liability Coverage

    Accidents can happen during a move, so it’s crucial to understand your mover’s insurance policy. Make sure to:

    • Ask about basic liability coverage and full-value protection.
    • Check if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers moving damages.
    • Clarify how claims are handled in case of lost or damaged items.

    Ensuring you have the right protection in place can give you peace of mind on moving day. At Broad Street Movers, we provide a Certificate of Insurance upon request to ensure you’re fully covered for your move. Don’t take chances with uninsured or unlicensed movers.

  6. Forgetting to Update Your Address and Utilities

    In the chaos of moving, it’s easy to forget essential tasks like updating your address and transferring utilities. To avoid disruptions, remember to:

    • Update your address with USPS, banks, and service providers.
    • Schedule utility shut-off and activation dates in advance.
    • Inform your employer and insurance providers of your move.

    Handling these tasks early can prevent unnecessary hassles once you’re in your new home.

  7. Not Preparing for Moving Day

    A lack of preparation can lead to unnecessary stress and delays. Make moving day smoother by:

    • Reserving parking space for the moving truck.
    • Packing an essentials box with toiletries, snacks, and important documents.
    • Confirming the moving company’s arrival time and details.

    Proper planning ensures a seamless and hassle-free moving experience.

Choose the Right Philadelphia Moving Company

A moving truck from Broad Street Movers parked in front of a home in Philadelphia, PAAvoiding these common moving mistakes starts with hiring the right team. Broad Street Movers is one of the most trusted moving companies in Philadelphia, offering expert moving and packing services tailored to your needs.

Learn more about how we can make your move stress-free. Contact Broad Street Movers today to schedule your move with confidence!