Whether you run a company and are looking into an employee relocation service, or you run a household and you're looking for the ideal moving company, it pays to be able to recognize the characteristics of the best companies. A number of hardworking people find themselves getting scammed by moving companies because they ignored some small warning signs that the company was not legitimate. People strapped for time and resources often have little things that could be looked for to signal that the moving company in question is a good company.
While this may be somewhat unfair for moving companies that are just starting out, it is reasonable to check the age of the moving company in question, whether you are looking for an interstate moving company or an international moving company. Moving companies that are not legitimate generally will not be able to operate out in the open for very long. If the moving company in question is not even three years old yet, the company may warrant more investigation on your part. Companies that have been around for decades and have a solid clientele are much more likely to be legitimate companies that will offer excellent services to any new clients.
Looking at the moving company's credentials can also help you easily rule out an international moving company that will not live up to what it claims to offer. Some companies may not even have the necessary authorization to transfer certain goods in the first place. Legitimate moving companies should have a Motor Carrier license and a Department of Transportation license at their disposal, which will help ensure that they will be held accountable for the service that they offer their clients. These licenses should also be current. No legitimate company would want to lose anyone's service just because they did not update their relevant business licenses recently, and legitimate companies will know that this is a risk for them.
Ultimately, if a moving company is so informal that they did not get the necessary credentials and go through the proper channels, you would be better off getting your friends and family to help you complete the move. Even if they have no relevant experience and minimal equipment, you will have a much better idea of what to expect from them than from an unknown moving company.