How Are Moving Brokers and Moving Companies Different?

It’s moving day at the Millers’ house… but the moving truck is nowhere to be found. They’ve been waiting all day.

They’ve called the “mover” they hired, but there’s no answer. They already paid the total upfront — in cash. This mover had provided a rock-bottom estimate, and the Millers thought they were getting a bargain. 

Instead, here they are: scammed out of their cash and having to hire their own trucks and load their belongings themselves. The Millers thought they were hiring a moving company, but they actually hired a moving company broker.

This story might sound far-fetched, but it happens all too often. When you’re hiring a mover, it’s very important to know who you’re working with. So how are brokers and moving companies different?

If you’d like a quick reference, check out this downloadable PDF discussing the differences between Scobey and moving brokers.

Is a Moving Broker the Same as a Moving Company?

First, it’s important to understand:

Moving brokers aren’t moving companies. 

They’re sales teams that buy your move and sell it to third-party companies. They don’t have their own moving team or vehicles, and they aren’t accountable for making sure your move is successful.

Sometimes moving company brokers entice customers with super low estimates but add charges along the way. Or they’re unable to find a local mover at the promised rate — leaving customers (like the Millers) stranded on moving day.

Let’s talk about five important differences between moving brokers and moving companies and why working with moving companies not brokers protects you from experiences like the one above. 

1. Pricing and Transparency

Pricing is often the deciding factor when choosing a service. But it’s important to look deeper than just the initial estimate. Transparency in pricing prevents unpleasant surprises and helps you know that you’re working with a reliable moving partner.

Brokers

• Brokers may lure you with enticing, rock-bottom estimates. However, these low prices are often a trap that can lead to hidden fees and unexpected extra charges once the move is underway.
• Upfront deposit requirements and vague pricing details can leave you paying more than anticipated, with little clarity on what you’re actually getting.

Moving Companies

• Reputable moving companies offer transparent, written estimates that clearly lay out all costs involved in your move.
• Although their estimates might not always be as low as those offered by moving brokers, the clarity and honesty in pricing ensure you’re investing in reliable, quality service. No hidden costs or changes without your knowledge!

At Scobey, we’ll NEVER ask for a deposit for any reason. Payment after the cargo is loaded is the industry standard!

2. Communication

Good communication is the backbone of any smooth moving experience. Clear, direct communication always keeps you in the loop about what’s happening with your move, from planning to final delivery. This is another big reason to work with moving companies not brokers!

Brokers

• Moving brokers often operate from call centers without a local presence in your area. This might mean inconsistent, impersonal communication — and a HUGE disconnect between promises and actual service.
• As middlemen, moving brokers sometimes pass along information through multiple channels. This often leaves customers without a direct point of contact for your move.

Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for a moving company broker to become unresponsive after receiving payment. 

Moving Companies

• With a moving company, you communicate directly with the team handling your move. This ensures that whoever is on the ground is part of the same team you’ve been speaking with.
• Direct, personal communication means you’re always in the loop about scheduling, progress, and any adjustments that need to be made, offering you both transparency and peace of mind.

🚩 Do you have a direct point of contact for your move?

3. Direct Control Over the Move

The level of control you have over your move really affects the quality of service and your overall peace of mind. Direct control means knowing exactly who is handling your belongings and how the process is managed.

Brokers

• Moving brokers outsource your move to another company. They don’t have their own moving teams or vehicles.
• With a moving company broker, you don’t know who’ll be handling your items on moving day. This can increase the possibility of unexpected expenses or service issues.

Moving Companies

• With a moving company, the same team that gives you an estimate also handles your move.
• We have our own teams of moving professionals and vehicles. We schedule and handle all the details of your move ourselves — no third parties. We’re directly responsible for safely loading and transporting your belongings, and we keep you in the loop the whole time.

🚩 Do they have their own moving team and vehicles?

5. Customer Service

When you’re moving, you need responsive, consistent service. Make sure your moving partner has “boots on the ground,” local connections and support, and the ability to handle the unexpected quickly and efficiently.

Make sure you’ve hired an agent of a trusted van line! As a proud agent of Mayflower, you can have peace of mind that you’re working with a reliable, professional moving partner.

Brokers

• Customer service can suffer when dealing with moving brokers — particularly because many operate from call centers in remote locations.
• Unfortunately, brokers may require upfront deposits and then become unresponsive when problems occur, leaving you feeling unsupported and frustrated.

Moving Companies

• Reputable moving companies prioritize customer service by ensuring you talk directly to the team responsible for your move.
• They are committed to handling challenges promptly — from scheduling changes to last-minute hiccups — ensuring you feel valued and supported throughout your moving journey.

🚩 Do they have a physical address in your area?

🚩 Do they have a good local reputation and positive reviews?

5. Liability/Insurance

The federal government requires licensed moving companies to protect your belongings during the move. Liability and insurance coverage are crucial to protecting your belongings. It’s important for you to know you’re covered in the event of damage or loss. 

Brokers

• Brokers are not direct service providers. They don’t own a fleet or have their own moving teams. As a result, they typically don’t assume liability for damages incurred during the move.
• This lack of direct responsibility can leave you with limited options if your belongings are damaged or go missing during transit.

Moving Companies

• As agents of trusted van lines (like Mayflower), moving companies carry robust liability and insurance coverage. This gives you peace of mind that your belongings are protected from start to finish.
• With full accountability throughout the process, you know exactly who is responsible if any issues come up. That way you know you’re covered in the rare case of complications.

🚩 Are they registered with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Association)? You can check here.

Peace of Mind, From Beginning to End

When it comes to streamlined moves, there can be a world of difference between moving companies and moving brokers. From communication and direct control to pricing and transparency, it’s crucial to know who you’re working with. By asking the right questions and watching out for red flags, you can feel confident about your moving partner. At Scobey Moving & Storage, we’ve got over a century of experience providing seamless, low-stress moves. We’re here to help make your relocation as smooth as possible — so you can have peace of mind!

Do you have questions about planning your move? Take the first step toward a secure, efficient, and worry-free moving experience! Contact Scobey today!