How to Choose a Licensed, Trustworthy Moving Company
Not every moving company in Texas is licensed, insured, or honest. Here is what you need to know before you hire anyone — including us.
Beware of Unlicensed Movers
For in-state moves, all moving companies in Texas must be licensed with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Before hiring any mover, search the Truck Stop database at txdmv.gov. You can search by company name, city, zip code, or registration number. Ask any company you are considering for their registration number and verify it yourself.
For out-of-state moves, check with the U.S. DOT to view the company's complaint history and safety record. Every interstate moving company is required to have a U.S. DOT number.
Texas Law Requires Every Licensed Mover to Provide:
- A proposal with a guaranteed price or "not to exceed" estimate
- A written contract before the move detailing services, insurance, and price
- An itemized list of charges after the move
- Standard liability of 60 cents per pound per item
- An option to purchase additional insurance above the minimum
- A brochure outlining your consumer rights under Texas law
- A rights and responsibilities pamphlet
- Arrival in a marked, professional vehicle
Red Flags That Should Make You Walk Away
Trust your gut. Here are the warning signs that a moving company may not be legitimate.
Too Many Complaints
When you see multiple complaints from customers, take note. Check Google reviews, BBB, and the Texas DMV complaint database before committing to any mover.
No Written Estimate
Any company that gives you a firm price over the phone without inspecting your belongings first is a red flag. A legitimate mover will conduct an in-person or video survey before quoting you.
Unprofessional Appearance
Do they have a real office? A business email? Uniforms? Marked trucks? A Bill of Lading? If the answer to any of these is no, reconsider. Professionals look and act the part.
Estimates Too Good to Be True
If a quote is noticeably lower than every other estimate you received, that is a warning sign — not a deal. Moving scams often start with an unusually low number.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Ask these questions of any moving company — including us. A trustworthy mover will answer every one without hesitation.
Half Price Movers Checks Every Box.
Since 1979, we've built our reputation on doing this the right way — transparent, with basic protection coverage included. Here's what that looks like in practice:
Licensed & Insured
Registered with the Texas DMV and fully insured for every job.
Written Estimates
Every move starts with a clear, itemized quote — no surprises.
Background-Checked Crews
Full-time employees only. No day labor. No subcontractors.
Marked, Professional Trucks
Our fleet is branded, maintained, and ready to work.
Real Office, Real People
Two Texas offices. Live phone support. Local accountability.
Since 1979
Four decades of moving Texas families and businesses the right way.
Questions? Call San Antonio at (210) 650-4911 or Corpus Christi at (361) 937-7615.