Alaska Movers Comparison Tool

Why Use a Mover Comparison Tool?

Many people do not struggle with the issue of not being able to find any movers; only with the fact that so many look good from the outside. All of the websites have listed the same promises in their advertising, such as “fast”, “careful”, “affordable”, etc. The feedback for these movers can be overwhelming or inconsistent. That’s why a move comparison tool is so helpful. It provides a clear, easy-to-read list of the most important things you need to know about a mover and allows you to easily identify those differences before wasting time sitting on the phone with five or more different companies.

This is especially true in Alaska. The prices and logistics involved in moving vary significantly based on numerous factors including distance, season, access limitations, and whether or not your move will involve rural areas, ferry transportation, or limited delivery windows. While two different companies may serve the state of Alaska, one may be geared towards local moves around Anchorage, while the other may be better equipped for long-distance moves or specialty services. By comparing both services side-by-side, you have the ability to choose a mover that is going to work for you, not just a mover that will be considered “okay in general”.

Red Flags to Look Out for Before You Hire

1. Be Aware of Vague Pricing and “Trust Me” Quotes

A reputable mover will show you the different factors which contribute to the pricing of your moving job (i.e., labor hours, travel time, access issues). A fraudulent company will not share this information with you and will pressure you into committing to hire them before you clearly understand what is included in the estimate.

2. Be Careful of Quotes That Are Unusually Low

A low quote could be real, but it could also be a bait-and-switch tactic. When comparing quotes between movers, and there is one company that has a significantly lower quote than everyone else, you should ask that company “What fees and charges are NOT included in this quote?” Frequently, the fee difference will show itself in the form of add-on charges that will be included after the fact.

3. Never Let Anyone Pressure You to Pay a Deposit Until You Receive Written Documentation

Pressure is one of the main components of a scam. If a moving company is trying to get you to pay a deposit right away and/or saying “Today only” or “Send me a deposit immediately or I will lose your moving date”, just be cautious! Reputable moving companies will have the ability to explain to you their deposit policy and will confirm all booking terms in writing.

4. Verify Company ID and Footprint

Legitimate moving companies will have consistency with the following items: company name, mailing address, service area, and (if applicable) licensing. If you cannot find a consistent name on different sites or can’t find the address or their website looks like a generic template without any specific details, then consider it a red flag.

5. Use a Review Pattern to Determine Your Potential Experience

Please don’t focus entirely on an angry review; focus instead on the repeating trends associated with complaints, such as:

• unexpected fees/price increases;
• delays/missed delivery windows;
• inconsistent communication;
• poorly-handled damage claims.

Lastly, the best way to protect yourself is by comparing at least 2 different movers side-by-side. By doing this, once you have the opportunity to look at the new business license/registration; BBB (Better Business Bureau) information, services provided by the moving company, and via reviewing the patterns of customer complaints; it makes it much more difficult for a fraudulent moving company to look good solely due to a marketing campaign.