How do I find a good moving company?

The 8 key characteristics of a reputable moving company

Use these eight points as a benchmark. If a company meets most of them, you're on the safe side.

1. Transparent and professional web presence

First impressions count. A professional website is the business card of any reputable company today.

• Full legal notice: Check if the company provides a permanent business address in Switzerland, a telephone number, and a commercial register number (UID). The absence of a legal notice is a major red flag!

• Clear description of services: The website should accurately describe the services offered (e.g. packing service, furniture assembly, final cleaning, storage).

• Real customer reviews: Look for authentic reviews on the website or on independent portals like Google.

2. Free and non-binding viewing

No reputable company will make a binding offer without having seen the goods to be moved.

• The offer: A professional company will always offer a free on-site visit or video call. This is the only way to realistically assess the scope of work and prepare an accurate quote.

• The consultation: Take advantage of this appointment! The consultant should competently answer your questions, explain the process, and inform you about possible challenges (e.g., narrow stairwell, parking situation).

3. Detailed written offer

A "price quote over the phone" is unprofessional. Always insist on a written, detailed offer. This must include all of the following points:

• Addresses: Complete loading and unloading address, including floor.

• Scope of services: All agreed services must be listed individually (e.g., number of employees, estimated hours, truck size, packing material, furniture disassembly/assembly, organizing a no-parking zone).

• Pricing: Is it a fixed price or billed by the hour? If billed by the hour, the rate per employee and hour must be clearly stated.

• Value Added Tax (VAT): The statutory value added tax must be shown separately.

• Insurance: Information regarding liability insurance must be included.

Pro tip: Always get 2-3 different quotes. But be careful: the cheapest offer is rarely the best. Compare the detailed scope of services, not just the final price.

4. Adequate insurance coverage

Accidents can always happen. What matters is how they are handled.

• Basic liability: Every reputable moving company in Switzerland must have transport and business liability insurance. Ask about it!

• Additional insurance: For particularly valuable items (e.g., art, expensive electronics), additional insurance can be worthwhile. A reputable company will advise you on this.

5. Professional communication and accessibility

How a company communicates with you says a lot about its way of working.

• Availability: Is the company easily reachable by phone? Are emails answered promptly and professionally?

• Competence: Are your questions answered patiently and expertly, or are they avoided?

6. Real experience and good equipment

Moving house requires more than just muscle power.

• Vehicles: Does the fleet of vehicles appear well-maintained? Are the vehicles specially equipped for furniture transport (e.g., with padding, tie-down straps)?

• Equipment: Professional teams use tools such as furniture dollies, carrying straps, and protective films to transport your property safely.

7. Flexible and fair payment terms

The payment terms are a clear indication of trustworthiness.

• No prepayment required: Be extremely cautious if a large deposit or even advance payment is requested. Payment is usually made by invoice after the move or directly after the work is completed (by card or cash against a receipt).

• Payment methods: Are different payment methods offered (invoice, card, Twint)?

8. Written contract

Once you've chosen a moving company, all agreements should be recorded in a simple, written contract. This protects both parties and provides a legally binding summary of all points from the quote.

Red flags: These are the signs that should make you suspicious