How to Hire the Right Movers

How to Hire the Right Movers
For expats living in China, moving isn’t just about transporting boxes—it’s about ensuring clear communication, professional service, and the safe handling of your belongings. Choosing the wrong moving company can lead to frustration, miscommunication, unexpected costs, or even damaged property.
If you’re planning a move, the following tips can help you find a trustworthy moving company and avoid unnecessary troubles.
1. Clarify Your Moving Needs
Before contacting a moving company, consider the following questions:
- Moving distance: Local or intercity? Distance affects the type of vehicle required and pricing.
- Service scope: Do you need furniture disassembly, packing services, or appliance handling? Some clients want full-service moving, while others only need transport.
- Building access: Do both locations have elevators? Will items need to be carried up or down stairs? These factors affect manpower and cost.
- Language support: Do you need communication in English or Korean? This is crucial for expats to avoid misunderstandings.
2. Choose a Company Experienced with Expats
Moving companies with the following qualities are more likely to win the trust of expat clients:
- Fluent in English or Korean
- Familiar with the packing preferences and special concerns of foreign clients (e.g., pets, plants, fragile items)
- Experienced with apartment buildings, villas, and gated communities with strict access procedures
- Website, customer service, and contracts available in English
3. Prioritize Reputation over Price
Many moving companies post customer cases and feedback on platforms like Xiaohongshu (RED), Google, and WeChat official accounts. Look for:
- Real photos and reviews from expat clients
- A stable team wearing uniforms and ID badges
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Reliable scheduling and a structured moving process
4. Ask for a Clear Quote and Service Details
A reliable moving company will give you a detailed quote based on:
- Distance (in kilometers)
- Vehicle type (mid-size van, Iveco, cargo truck, etc.)
- Stair carrying or heavy item handling (e.g., fridge, sofa bed)
- Packing, disassembly, and appliance handling needs
- Whether plastic bins or cardboard boxes are provided

Tip: Avoid companies that give verbal quotes only via phone or WeChat. Ask for a written or digital quote sheet to prevent last-minute price changes on moving day.
5. Pay Attention to Contracts and Payment Methods
A legitimate mover should provide a written or electronic contract that clearly states:
- Service time and vehicle type
- Pickup and drop-off addresses
- Confirmed pricing and payment terms

It’s not recommended to pay large deposits in advance. A “pay after service” model is more transparent and helps build trust.
6. Trust Your Gut – If It Feels Off, Walk Away
If during your communication you notice any of the following, consider changing companies:
- Vague answers or constant changes in quotes
- Prices that are unrealistically low without explanation
- No customer reviews or public feedback
- Obvious language barriers or lack of understanding

For those who value service quality and smooth communication, choosing a reliable team is far more important than choosing the cheapest.
Conclusion: A Good Moving Company Is Your Partner
A trustworthy moving crew doesn’t just “carry things”—they help move your life safely from one space to another. They understand your concerns, help you plan ahead, and solve problems with professionalism and patience.

If you’re looking for a mover who understands both your needs and your expectations, we hope this guide helps you find the right one and enjoy a move that’s smooth, stress-free, and secure.