Is It Difficult to Find a Good Moving Service?

Dos Manos Moving
Aug 15
4 min read

You’ve circled the date on your calendar. The boxes are starting to pile up. You’ve even begun that awkward dance of deciding which furniture makes the cut and which piece “accidentally” won’t fit in the new place. But then comes the part most people dread—the hunt for a moving service you can actually trust.

Two men move a large, blue-cushioned couch up a staircase in a bright home, with visible effort. White walls and wooden railings surround them.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why is it so hard to find a reliable moving service?”—you’re not alone. For many, finding movers feels like scrolling through online dating profiles: lots of promises, but you’re never quite sure who’s the real deal until moving day… and by then, it’s too late.

Let’s break down the truth about what makes this search tricky, how to make it easier, and why your perfect moving service might be closer than you think.

Why Finding the Right Moving Service Feels Overwhelming

Moving isn’t something you do every week, which means you don’t have a ready list of “go-to” movers in your back pocket. Instead, you’re diving into a sea of online reviews, quotes, and recommendations—often with little time to decide.

Here are the big reasons it can feel tough:

Too many options: A quick Google search for moving service near me can pull up dozens (sometimes hundreds) of results.
Mixed reviews: One person raves about a company, the next warns you to run in the opposite direction.
Unclear pricing: Many companies aren’t upfront about fees, which can lead to “surprise” costs.
Trust issues: Horror stories of damaged furniture or no-shows make it hard to feel confident.

A True Story: How One Family Almost Lost Their Moving Day

Take the Martinez family. They were moving from Naperville to Oak Brook and decided to hire a moving service based solely on the lowest price. Everything seemed fine—until moving day, when the crew showed up two hours late in a truck that looked like it had seen better days. Halfway through loading, one mover admitted they had another job to get to and might not finish that day.

Panicked, Mrs. Martinez started calling other movers, but most were fully booked. That’s when a friend gave her our number at Dos Manos Moving. We rearranged our afternoon crew, sent a team their way, and got them moved before midnight—without damage, without excuses, and without hidden fees.

The lesson? A good price means nothing if the service doesn’t match.

What to Look for in a Reliable Moving Service

You can save yourself stress (and possibly your couch) by focusing on a few non-negotiables when searching for movers:

Clear, upfront pricing – A reputable moving service will break down costs before the job begins.
Positive, consistent reviews – Look for patterns in feedback rather than isolated comments.
Proper licensing and insurance – This protects both your belongings and the movers.
Communication – They should be responsive and transparent before, during, and after your move.
Flexibility – Life happens. The best movers can adjust when plans change.

The Where and How of Finding a Great Moving Service

Where to Search:

Local Recommendations – Ask neighbors, coworkers, and friends who’ve moved recently.
Online Review Platforms – Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau are good starting points.
Social Media Groups – Local Facebook or community groups often share firsthand experiences.

How to Vet Your Options:

Call, don’t just click – A quick phone call can reveal a lot about professionalism and responsiveness.
Ask the right questions – “Do you charge extra for stairs?” “Do you wrap furniture?” “Are you insured?”
Check their truck size – Make sure they can handle your move in one trip.
Request a written estimate – Avoid vague promises or verbal-only quotes.

Why the Best Moving Service Might Not Be the Cheapest

We get it—you want to save money where you can. But here’s the reality: the cheapest option often comes with trade-offs, like rushed work, inexperienced crews, or unexpected add-on charges.

A truly professional moving service invests in:

Well-trained staff
Reliable trucks
Quality packing materials
Adequate insurance coverage

In other words, you’re not just paying for time—you’re paying for peace of mind.

FAQ: Your Moving Service Questions, Answered

Q: How far in advance should I book a moving service? A: Ideally, 4–6 weeks before your move date, especially during peak seasons like summer.

Q: Should I pack everything myself or let movers do it? A: It depends on your time and budget. Many moving services, including Dos Manos Moving, offer packing assistance to save you time and stress.

Q: What if my moving date changes? A: Good movers will work with you to reschedule. Always check their flexibility policy before booking.

Q: How do I know if a moving service is legit? A: Look for proper licensing, insurance, and transparent business information on their website and paperwork.

The Dos Manos Moving Difference

At Dos Manos Moving, we’ve built our reputation in Chicago’s western suburbs by making moves personal. We don’t just transport boxes—we move lives. Our crews arrive on time, handle belongings with care, and communicate every step of the way. Whether it’s a one-bedroom apartment or a full family home, we bring the same level of professionalism to every job.

Let’s Make This Personal: How About You?

Have you ever had a nightmare moving experience—or maybe an unexpectedly great one? If so, what made the difference? Was it the movers’ attitude, speed, or the care they showed your belongings?

Think about it, because the next time you search for a moving service, those are the exact qualities you’ll want to spot before signing on the dotted line.

Final Thoughts: Good Moving Services Do Exist

Yes, finding a trustworthy moving service can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But with the right approach—asking smart questions, checking reviews, and trusting proven professionals—you can take the stress out of moving day.