Moving Companies vs. Moving Brokers: What’s the Difference?

Planning a big move? You’re likely to encounter both moving companies and moving brokers during your search. Understanding the differences are crucial for a smooth relocation experience. Let’s break down the key distinctions to help you make an informed decision.

What’s the Difference Between Moving Companies and Brokers?

When you’re looking for the best movers in your area, you may not be searching for brokers, but brokers will still appear in your search results. It matters whether you hire a broker or work directly with a mover. Let’s explore how they differ and what that means for you.

What Is a Moving Company?

A moving company is responsible for physically transporting your belongings from one location to another. They own the trucks, employ professional movers, and manage the entire relocation process. If you’re moving across state lines, any legitimate moving company must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a valid U.S. DOT number. This ensures that they meet safety standards and follow industry guidelines.

What Is a Moving Broker?

In contrast, a moving broker doesn’t handle the actual moving process. Instead, brokers act as middlemen, connecting you with moving companies that can meet your needs. Think of brokers as sales agents; they find a moving company for you, then broker the deal.

Like moving companies, brokers must also be registered with the FMCSA. However, it’s important to remember that brokers don’t own moving trucks or employ movers. Their role is to arrange transportation, not to take responsibility for the actual move.

Take care when working with a moving broker

If you choose to work with a moving broker, make sure you’re doing the following:

• Verify FMCSA Registration: Always check whether the broker is registered with the FMCSA. You can do this easily at protectyourmove.gov.
• Know Your Rights: The broker should provide you with FMCSA’s “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet and the “Ready to Move” brochure. These documents are important and legally required.
• Request Moving Company Information: Ask for a list of the moving companies the broker works with. Ensure these movers are also FMCSA-registered.
• Seek Written Agreements and Estimates: Make sure the broker has a written agreement with the moving company they assign to you. Always get a written estimate based on the mover’s tariff. Verbal estimates are unreliable and could lead to unexpected costs.
• Inspect Marketing Materials: The broker’s website and advertisements should clearly state their business location, U.S. DOT number, and that they act as a broker who arranges transportation. This transparency is legally required.
• Prepare for Pitfalls: Occasionally, brokers may not secure a moving company for your scheduled date due to low estimates, lack of availability, or other issues. To avoid last-minute problems, verify the broker’s reputation and have a backup plan.

If you have any additional questions about your upcoming move, reach out to Olympia Moving. We’re here to help guide you through the process!