While researching for a presentation, I looked up the Top 20 Moving Companies listed on Yelp. I started checking out their websites and whether they were licensed or not. What I discovered may surprise some of you. Out of the top 20 moving companies listed on Yelp, 45% are unlicensed and two are Brokers.
Unfortunately, too many consumers think that if a moving company is listed on Yelp the company is legitimate and licensed, however, this is not the case even with the top 20 moving companies. Yelp does not check to make sure any company is is licensed, operating legally, is insured, or other industry related requirements.
I didn’t go through and check other industries on Yelp but if this is the case with the top 20 moving companies, I’m confident you will find the same issue if you search for general contractors, plumbers, and other service industries. This is scary because so many people rely on Yelp to make buying decisions.
Yelp and other online review sites are good to check and can be an excellent resource, but you should not rely solely on that when making a decision. As a consumer, you should check out other sources to make sure the top 20 moving companies you are choosing from are licensed and insured. In this case, checking out the top 20 moving companies operating in California, listed on Yelp, is pretty easy. Follow the steps below and it could save you a lot of heartache and cash.
Start by going to the Public Utilities Commission website. Next, click on “List of Companies” and from there click on “Moving Company (MTR).” Enter the name of the company. If more than one is found you will have to figure out which one is the one you are looking for, usually based on address. Check to see if their permit is active and if their insurance is valid. It is important to keep in mind that there are different companies with the same name within California.You are able to narrow your search to counties.
A broker is a middleman between the person who is moving and the moving company. Brokers are not actual movers and don’t own trucks or equipment. They are essentially salespeople selling the move to any company willing to pay them. This is NOT who you want to book your move through. Doing this means you will have no control over who the company is that shows up at your home. You won’t even know whether they are licensed and insured. This is a potential recipe for disaster. You really want to hire a brick and mortar business.
Whatever you do, always remember “you get what you pay for.” So do not choose a from the top 20 moving companies simply based on price. In the end, what you thought was a bargain may turn out to be more expensive than you ever imaged.
Established in 1991 by Kim Tucker, All Reasons Moving & Storage offers both Office and Residential (Home & Apartment) moving storage services. Recognized as a leader in the moving & storage industry, we are proud to belong to the exclusive club of California businesses owned and operated by women. Call All Reasons Moving at (408) 351-9515 for a no-cost, no-obligation estimate for all your moving needs.