A simple 10-point checklist to spot genuine, reliable packers and movers — and avoid the cheap quotes that turn into damaged goods and surprise bills.
To choose reliable packers and movers, verify a real local office and contact number, insist on a free survey and a written all-inclusive quote, check genuine reviews, confirm transit insurance, and avoid unusually cheap phone quotes. Reputable movers welcome questions and provide proper bills.
The moving industry has plenty of honest crews — and some that quote cheap, then damage goods or add charges on the day. Use this checklist to tell them apart before you hand over your home.
The 10-point checklist
- 1Real local presence — a verifiable office address and a contact number that's answered.
- 2Free pre-move survey — genuine movers want to see your goods before quoting.
- 3Written, itemised quote — not a vague figure shouted over the phone.
- 4All-inclusive pricing — packing, labour, transport and basic placement included.
- 5Transit insurance available — and explained, not brushed off.
- 6Genuine reviews — on Google, Justdial or Sulekha, ideally mentioning real areas.
- 7Trained, uniformed crew — not random daily labour with a hired tempo.
- 8Proper materials on the truck — bubble wrap, foam, cartons, crates.
- 9GPS-tracked vehicles for intercity moves.
- 10Proper documents — invoice, consignment note and inventory (essential for reimbursement claims).
Red flags to walk away from
- A quote far below everyone else's — it almost always grows on moving day.
- No office address, only a mobile number and a generic name.
- Demands a large advance before any survey or paperwork.
- Won't put the price in writing.
Smart questions to ask
- “Is this quote all-inclusive, or do floor/lift/GST charges get added later?”
- “Do you provide transit insurance and a proper invoice?”
- “Is the crew your own staff or subcontracted?”
- “Can you share recent reviews from my area?”
South Packers and Movers ticks every box on this list — local Siliguri office, free survey, written all-inclusive quotes, insured moves and our own trained crews. Call +91 98304 86564 to see the difference.