These are the 6 must have steps to find the best value moving company
Finding an affordable moving company that also has great reviews can feel like trying to find a kid who will clean his room without being asked. Prices vary, reviews clash, and every company claims they’re “the best in town.” Meanwhile, all you want is someone who won’t drop your TV or disappear on moving day.
Here is a detailed guide to finding a reliable moving company near you—plus why Manly Moving, serving Eastern Idaho and Southern Utah, is a strong contender for your next move if you are looking for movers in that area.
Step 1: Know What “Affordable” Really Means
“Affordable” doesn’t always mean “cheapest.”
A company quoting a shockingly low price might also be the kind of team that shows up with one dolly, one moving blanket, and one guy who asks if you have snacks.
Real affordability includes:
- Transparent pricing without mystery fees
- A trained crew (not cousins hired that morning)
- Proper trucks and equipment
- Valuation that actually covers your stuff
- Reviews from real humans not the fake kind
If the quote sounds too good to be true, assume it is—just like that $20 luxury sofa on Facebook Marketplace that “only needs one minor repair.”

Step 2: Search in the Right Places
When you type “affordable moving companies near me” into Google, you’ll get everything from legitimate pros to questionable outfits that look like they operate out of a shed.
Stick to trustworthy review platforms:
- Google Business Profiles – Best for honest reviews and photos
- Yelp – Detailed reviewer rants and celebrations. Yelp does tend to attract more bad reviews than good, so keep that in mind.
- Facebook Recommendations – Good for local recommendations
- BBB – Confirms the business is real and not fictional.
What you’re looking for:
- Consistent 4.5–5 stars
- Reviews mentioning careful handling, punctuality, hard working, and no surprises on the bill
- Customers who say they’d hire the moving company again (the ultimate compliment)
- Clear patterns—good or bad
If reviews mention broken items, late crews, or disappearing movers, then be sure to not go with moving companies like these unless you are a charity that gives money to crappy movers which I doubt you are.

Step 3: Compare Moving Quotes Like a Pro
You should always get multiple quotes—and always in writing.
A verbal quote over the phone is about as reliable as “I’ll be ready in 10 minutes.”
Pay attention to:
- Hourly vs. flat-rate pricing
- What’s included (truck, crew size, travel fee, equipment)
- Extra charges for stairs, long carries, or packing supplies
- Deposit amounts
- Cancellation policies
- Whether they actually listened when you described your inventory
A good mover asks questions.
A great mover asks enough questions to understand exactly how many boxes of “miscellaneous kitchen items” you’ve been hiding.

Step 4: Verify Licensing and Insurance
This step matters.
A “moving company” without insurance is just a group of guys with strong opinions and access to a pickup truck.
Legitimate companies should have:
- A USDOT number (for interstate moves)
- State licensing when required
- Proof of liability insurance
- cargo insurance (for interstate moves)
- Employees covered by workers’ compensation
If they dance around the licensing question, that’s your sign to not dance with them.

Step 5: Ask About Training, Tools, and Trucks
You want to know whether you’re getting trained movers or two guys who watched a YouTube video and called themselves professionals.
Ask:
- How experienced the crew is
- Whether they use floor protection, furniture pads, movers bands and/or shrink wrap
- What kind of truck they use
- How they handle heavy or fragile items
- Whether they specialize in certain types of moves
- Ask them how they would move ______(list a bigger or fragile item that you own.
Good equipment and trained movers prevents damage, and trustworthy movers prevent arguments about who broke the lamp.

Why Manly Moving Is a Strong Choice
If you’re searching for a moving company that balances affordability, professionalism, and great reviews, Manly Moving checks all the boxes.
What sets Manly Moving apart:
- Honest, competitive pricing
- Skilled crews who know how to move your belongings without scuffs, scratches, or drama
- Clean, well-equipped trucks
- Friendly movers who actually show up on time
- Clear communication and no hidden fees
- Strong reputation across multiple review platforms
- Full service: local moves, long-distance, packing help, loading, unloading, specialty items
Where we serve:
Proudly moving families and businesses throughout Eastern Idaho and Southern Utah, from small apartments to full-size homes (and everything in between).
If you want movers who are professional without being boring, strong without being sloppy, and efficient without being overly serious, Manly Moving is a reliable and personable choice.
Step 6: Book Early and Avoid Last-Minute Surprises
Good movers get booked fast—especially during peak seasons.
If you call the week of your move, your only options may be:
- Overpriced companies
- Underqualified companies
- Your one friend with a truck who “owes you a favor” but will complain the entire day.
Booking early keeps costs down and ensures you get your top choice.
Final Tips for Success
- Read the contract carefully
- Don’t pay large deposits
- Pack properly if you’re doing your own packing
- Declutter ahead of time to save money
- Communicate special items or tricky situations
When you follow the right steps, finding an affordable moving company with great reviews becomes much easier—and much less stressful.
If you want, I can create a shorter version, an SEO-optimized version, or a social media caption based on this.
To get a FREE moving quote call us at 855-997-1881 or to book online click here






