Let’s be honest—moving is one of those “great in theory, exhausting in practice” life events. You’ve found your next dream home in Sacramento, but now you’re knee-deep in bubble wrap, cardboard boxes, and endless to-do lists. The secret to a smoother move? Finding a moving company you can actually trust.

That’s where The Sherri Patterson Team comes in. As your go-to Sacramento real estate experts, we’ve seen our fair share of moving days—some smooth, some not so much. So before you hand over your furniture (and your sanity), we’re breaking down how to find a reliable mover, what to expect when comparing quotes, and the red flags you should definitely avoid. Whether you’re relocating across Midtown or moving out toward El Dorado Hills, these tips will help you keep calm, organized, and scam-free.

First step? Research companies.

Not all moving companies are created equal. Before you hand over your belongings—or your credit card—do some homework. Start by checking whether the company is licensed and insured. In the U.S., interstate movers should have a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number. 

Reviews are another important piece of the puzzle. Read recent customer experiences on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau to see how the company handles complaints. A moving company with consistently poor reviews—or none at all—is a red flag.



And if you’re not sure where to start? Ask around! Friends, family, and yes—The Sherri Patterson Team—is happy to share local recommendations. (We’ve got the inside scoop on the movers who actually show up on time.)

Next, get estimates.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, request estimates from at least three different moving companies. This not only helps you get a sense of the average cost but also makes it easier to spot quotes that are suspiciously low (a classic scam tactic).

Movers may calculate their rates differently: some charge by weight, others by the hour, and some use a combination of both. Cross-country moves tend to be priced by weight and distance, while local moves often charge hourly.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when comparing estimates:

• In-home vs. virtual estimates: In-person walk-throughs are the most accurate, but many movers now offer reliable video estimates.
  

• Binding vs. non-binding estimates: A binding estimate means the price won’t change unless you add services. A non-binding one can increase if your move takes longer or your load is heavier than expected.

• Additional fees: Ask about fuel charges, stair fees, or charges for heavy items like pianos or safes. These can add up quickly.

Read the contract carefully.

Here’s where many homeowners get caught off guard: the fine print. Imagine this scenario—your items finally arrive at your new home after a long-distance move, but instead of unloading them, the movers park the truck in your driveway and demand an extra fee before they’ll bring anything inside. Unfortunately, this kind of “hostage” situation happens more often than you think, and it usually comes down to not reading the contract closely.

Before signing, make sure you understand:

• Delivery window: Some companies give a delivery range rather than an exact date. Know what that means for your schedule.

• Payment terms: Avoid companies that demand large upfront deposits. Most legitimate movers only require partial payment before delivery.

• Liability coverage: Basic coverage is often just 60 cents per pound per item—which means if your 50-inch TV is damaged, you’ll get a fraction of its actual value unless you upgrade to full-value protection.

When in doubt, ask questions. A reputable mover will explain the terms clearly and won’t pressure you into signing.

Extra tips to make your move smoother.

Even after finding the right company, there are ways to save money and protect your move. Keep these in mind:

• Move in the off-season: Summer is peak moving season, which means higher rates. If possible, schedule your move in the winter months or mid-week for potential discounts.

• Consider moving insurance: Standard liability coverage won’t cover everything. Third-party moving insurance can give you peace of mind, especially for high-value items.

• Declutter before you move: Fewer boxes = less weight = lower cost. Donate, sell, or toss items you don’t want to pay to move.

• Ask about packing services: Some movers offer professional packing for an added fee. If you’re short on time, it may be worth the cost.

• Stay organized: Label boxes clearly by room and keep essentials (like toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents) with you—not on the truck.
  

Finding the right moving company is a game-changer—it can turn a chaotic, stressful day into a smooth transition that actually feels exciting. With a little research and planning, you’ll be unpacking those boxes in no time (hopefully with pizza and a cold drink waiting).

And if you’re making a move here in the Sacramento area, The Sherri Patterson Team is always here to help. From recommending reliable local movers and trusted cleaners to connecting you with our favorite florists, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just thinking about your next chapter, reach out anytime. We’re always happy to share our favorite local resources—and maybe a few moving day survival tips, too.