Confirm licensing first

New Jersey intrastate movers are required to carry a state license (look for a PC number) and, for interstate moves, a USDOT number. Ask for both and verify them before booking — this is a baseline, not an extra.

Ask who's actually doing the work

Some companies subcontract or use day labor for the crew that shows up on move day, which can mean less consistency and accountability. It's a fair question to ask directly: does the company use its own trucks and its own trained crew, or does it broker the job out?

Understand valuation coverage before move day

Valuation coverage is not the same as homeowners insurance, and coverage levels vary by mover and by shipment. Ask what's included by default and what additional coverage options exist — and get the answer in writing before move day, not after.

Watch for red flags

A quote given without ever seeing your inventory (in person or on video).

A large deposit required well before the move.

No local address or verifiable business history.

Reluctance to answer questions about licensing or insurance directly.

Read reviews with context

A handful of negative reviews is normal for any company that's moved thousands of households. Look for patterns — repeated complaints about the same issue matter more than a single bad day.