Local planning Confirm DPU-regulated status first
Before comparing estimates, confirm each company is regulated by the Massachusetts DPU for in-state household-goods moves, using the department's published information on regulated movers. Our Massachusetts state guide explains the regulatory framework and the line between state and federal authority. Once status is confirmed, gather written estimates for the same inventory so the rest of the comparison stays even.
- Ask each company about its DPU-regulated status for household-goods moves.
- Confirm the company using the DPU's published information on regulated movers.
- For moves leaving Massachusetts, also review the company's federal USDOT record.
- Compare written estimates for identical inventory and services.
Local planning Older buildings and stairs
If either address is in an older building, measure doors, stair turns, landings, elevator interiors, and large furniture. Give every company the same access measurements.
- Count flights of stairs and note narrow turns at both addresses.
- Measure large furniture against doorways and stairwells in advance.
- Ask how each company protects banisters, walls, and floors in older buildings.
- Ask how the estimate accounts for stairs, carries, or hoisting.
Local planning Curb space and the moving truck
Check Boston’s current moving-truck parking guidance for each address. Confirm the legal truck location, reservation responsibility, sign-posting steps, and how a longer carry changes the proposal.
- Check the city's process for reserving curb space for a moving truck well before your date.
- Walk your block and note hydrants, driveways, and narrow sections.
- Ask each company where it expects to position the truck at each address.
- Ask how a long carry from truck to door would affect the plan and the estimate.
Local planning Timing around Boston's calendar
If the date is fixed or near a lease turnover, confirm availability for that exact date, building access, curb arrangements, and delay terms early. Treat availability as company- and date-specific.
- If the date is inflexible or near a lease turnover or month-end, ask about availability for that exact date.
- Clear and treat steps and walkways at both addresses in winter.
- Build schedule flexibility into any winter move date.
Official resources Check current records and local guidance
Rules and public records can change. Use these official sources to confirm the requirements and access details that apply to your route and addresses.