Moving is a major undertaking, whether you're relocating across Pittsburgh, moving to another state, or transitioning your business into a new office. With so many details to coordinate, choosing the right moving company is one of the most important decisions you'll make.

open moving truck with boxes and furniture on driveway of home

While comparing moving estimates, it's tempting to focus on price alone. However, hiring a properly licensed and insured moving company is about more than finding someone with a truck. It's about protecting your belongings, understanding your rights, and knowing who is responsible if something goes wrong.

At George Moving & Storage, we believe customers should feel confident about who they're trusting with their belongings. Here's why licensing and insurance matter and what you should look for before hiring a moving company.

1. What Does It Mean to Hire a Licensed Moving Company?

A licensed moving company has obtained the operating authority required for the types of moves it performs.

Licensing requirements vary depending on whether you're moving within Pennsylvania or across state lines.

For interstate moves, moving companies generally must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number.

Movers operating entirely within Pennsylvania are subject to state-specific requirements.

Proper licensing helps establish that a moving company is operating within the applicable regulatory framework. It also gives customers a way to verify the company's credentials before booking.

Moving tip: Before hiring a mover, ask for its USDOT number or applicable state operating authority and verify the information with the appropriate agency.

2. Understanding Moving Insurance and Valuation Coverage

One of the most common misconceptions about hiring professional movers is that all your belongings are automatically insured for their full replacement value.

That's not necessarily the case.

Moving companies may carry several types of insurance, including commercial vehicle insurance and liability coverage. However, those policies are different from the protection available for your household belongings.

For interstate household moves, customers are generally offered two primary valuation options:

  • Full Value Protection: The mover is responsible for the replacement value of lost or damaged goods in the shipment, subject to the terms and limitations of the coverage.

  • Released Value Protection: A basic level of protection generally included at no additional charge, but compensation is limited to 60 cents per pound per item.

For example, if a 20-pound television is damaged under Released Value Protection, the mover's liability could be limited to just $12.

That's why it's important to understand your protection options before moving day.

Ask your moving company what valuation coverage is included in your estimate, what additional options are available, and whether you should consider purchasing separate moving insurance.

3. Protecting Your Home and Belongings

Your belongings aren't the only things that need protection during a move.

Moving heavy furniture, appliances, and equipment through doorways, staircases, and narrow hallways requires experience and careful planning.

Professional movers use appropriate equipment and handling techniques to reduce the risk of damage to your belongings and property.

Before hiring a moving company, ask about its procedures for protecting floors, doorways, furniture, and other vulnerable areas.

You should also understand how the company handles damage claims and what documentation you'll need if an issue occurs.

4. Avoiding Moving Scams

Unfortunately, moving scams can turn an already stressful experience into an expensive nightmare.

Some dishonest operators advertise unusually low estimates, demand unexpected payments, or refuse to deliver belongings until customers pay additional charges.

Working with an established, properly licensed moving company and verifying its credentials can help reduce these risks.

Watch for these potential warning signs:

  • A company refuses to provide its licensing or registration information.

  • You're given a vague estimate without a clear explanation of potential additional charges.

  • The company demands a large cash deposit before your move.

  • You aren't provided with a written estimate or contract.

  • The business has no verifiable physical address or established operating history.

Before signing an agreement, review your estimate carefully and make sure you understand the company's payment terms, cancellation policy, and claims process.

5. Why Experience Matters Just as Much as Licensing

Licensing and insurance are essential considerations, but they're only part of choosing the right moving company.

Experience matters, particularly when your move involves valuable belongings, specialized equipment, or complicated logistics.

For example, commercial relocations may require careful coordination to minimize downtime, while medical and laboratory moves can involve sensitive equipment that needs specialized handling.

An experienced moving company can help you anticipate potential challenges, develop a detailed relocation plan, and coordinate the resources needed for your move.

At George Moving & Storage, we've been helping families and businesses relocate since 1975. Our experience includes residential moves, commercial relocations, international moving, and specialized medical and laboratory equipment transportation.

6. Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company

Whether you're planning a local move in Pittsburgh or relocating across the country, asking the right questions can help you make an informed decision.

Before choosing your movers, consider asking:

  • Are you licensed and authorized to perform my type of move?

  • What insurance and valuation protection options are available?

  • Is my estimate binding or nonbinding?

  • Are there additional charges for stairs, long carries, storage, or specialty items?

  • Will your own employees handle my move, or will another company be involved?

  • What happens if something is lost or damaged?

  • Can you provide references or customer reviews?

A reputable moving company should be willing to explain its services, pricing, and protection options so you know what to expect.

7. Choose a Moving Company You Can Trust

Hiring licensed and insured movers gives you greater confidence that you're working with a legitimate business and that you understand the protections available for your move.

George Moving & Storage has served Pittsburgh and the surrounding region since 1975. Whether you're moving your family into a new home, relocating an office, or transporting specialized equipment, our team is here to help you plan a successful relocation.