10 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Packers and Movers in India (Complete Guide)

Relocating your home or office is a big decision. Between managing work, family, packing, and moving day coordination, it’s easy to make small mistakes that turn into big headaches. In India, where long distances, rough roads, monsoons, and high demand for movers are common, choosing the wrong packers and movers can mean damaged goods, hidden charges, delays, and unnecessary stress.

This guide will help you understand the biggest mistakes to avoid when hiring packers and movers, along with practical tips, red flags, checklists, and approximate moving costs in India. Whether you are moving within the city or shifting to another state, use this as your packers and movers hiring guide before you book any relocation company.

At Singhania Packers & Movers, we believe in transparent pricing, waterproof packing, and load-to-load shifting (no off-loading or mixing of goods). This article is based on our real-world experience of handling hundreds of relocations across India.

Table of Contents

• Mistake 1: Choosing Movers Only on Price
• Mistake 2: Not Researching or Verifying the Moving Company
• Mistake 3: Not Demanding a Written, Itemised Quote
• Mistake 4: Ignoring the Scope of Services and Exclusions
• Mistake 5: Not Preparing Your Goods Before Packing
• Mistake 6: Overlooking Packing Material Quality
• Mistake 7: Ignoring Loading, Labour and Floor Charges
• Mistake 8: Not Clarifying Part-Load vs Load-to-Load Service
• Mistake 9: Ignoring Society / Apartment Permissions
• Mistake 10: Not Checking Terms & Conditions
• Red Flags: How to Avoid Fake Packers and Movers
• Pre-Booking Checklist Before Hiring Packers and Movers
• Approximate Packers and Movers Charges in India
• Expert Tips to Avoid Shifting Problems
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❌ Mistake 1: Choosing Packers and Movers Only on Price

This is the most common mistake people make when hiring packers and movers in India. Many customers simply collect a few quotes on WhatsApp and choose the cheapest mover without checking service quality, experience, or hidden terms.

Extremely cheap quotes are often a red flag. Some movers deliberately give low initial prices to secure the booking and later add extra charges for:

• Packing materials
• Floor-carry or labour charges
• Detouring, waiting, or extra unloading time
• GST or fuel charges

In the end, you may end up paying more than a professional mover who gave you a realistic, all-inclusive quote in the beginning.

Better Approach:

• Compare quotes on value and services, not just price.
• Check what is included: packing, loading, unloading, unpacking, insurance options, labour, floor charges.
• Ask movers to send a proper estimate on letterhead or WhatsApp PDF, not just one-line numbers.

Remember: the best packers and movers are not always the cheapest—but they save you money by protecting your goods and avoiding disputes.

❌ Mistake 2: Not Researching or Verifying the Moving Company

Another big mistake is booking the first packers and movers you see on Google or social media advertisements without proper verification. With so many local movers and online listings, you must be careful to avoid fake or unreliable companies.

What people usually forget to check:

• Proper GST number and billing
• Registered office address or verified local presence
• Google reviews and genuine customer testimonials
• Website details with clear services and contact information
• Whether the company itself is doing the work or simply brokering to someone else

Better Approach:

• Search the company name on Google Maps and see if the address and reviews look genuine.
• Check if they issue GST invoices and proper documentation.
• Ask for photos or videos of their previous work, trucks, and packing quality.
• Call their office landline or official mobile number, not just a random mobile or third-party agent.

Doing basic research for 10–15 minutes can help you avoid a lot of shifting-related problems later.

❌ Mistake 3: Not Demanding a Written, Itemised Quote

Many customers agree to shifting charges over a short phone call and never receive a proper written estimate. This is risky because the verbal promise may not match what actually happens on moving day.

Common issues when there is no written quote:

• Sudden claims of “extra items” and additional charges
• Separate billing for packing materials, unloading, or floor-carry
• Confusion about insurance, transit risk coverage, or taxes
• No clarity on the type of truck, delivery date, or unloading support

Better Approach:

• Always ask for a written quotation—on mail, WhatsApp PDF, or letterhead.
• Ensure that it clearly mentions:
  • Packing, loading, transportation, unloading
  • Floor level, lift condition, and labour charges
  • Any extra charges or conditions (if applicable)
  • Transit risk coverage options (if you choose them)
• Check if the quote mentions “No Hidden Charges” clearly.

At Singhania Packers & Movers, we provide transparent written estimates so the customer knows exactly what they are paying for.

❌ Mistake 4: Ignoring the Scope of Services and Exclusions

Sometimes customers assume that “packers and movers” will do everything automatically—packing, dismantling, unpacking, rearranging, floor-carry, and even reconnecting appliances. But not all relocation companies offer the same level of service.

Misunderstanding the scope of work is one of the main reasons for last-minute arguments and stress on moving day.

Things you must clarify before hiring movers:

• Is complete packing included or only loading and transportation?
• Will they dismantle and reassemble beds, wardrobes, and modular furniture?
• Is unpacking and basic rearrangement included at destination?
• Who will handle AC, geyser, or electrical fitting removal and installation?
• What items are not allowed in the truck (e.g., cash, jewelry, inflammable liquids, acids)?

Better Approach:

• Ask the mover to clearly list what is included and what is not included.
• Confirm if unpacking is part of the package (at Singhania, unpacking is included in our quote).
• Discuss any special items like pianos, glass furniture, aquariums, or large appliances in advance.

❌ Mistake 5: Not Preparing Your Goods Before Packing

Many customers forget small but important preparation steps that can delay packing or even damage goods. Proper preparation before the movers arrive makes the process smooth, safe, and fast.

Common things people forget:

• Defrosting the fridge 12–24 hours before shifting
• Emptying fuel from two-wheelers
• Disconnecting gas cylinders and ensuring safety
• Draining water from AC units, washing machines, batteries, or geysers
• Removing loose items from cupboards and drawers

If these tasks are not done on time, packing may get delayed, and there is a higher risk of leakage, moisture damage, or accidents during transport.

Better Approach:

• Follow a customer preparation checklist one day before shifting.
• Unplug and dry all water-based appliances in advance.
• Secure valuables (documents, cash, jewelry) separately and keep them with you.

We share a pre-shifting checklist with every client to avoid such problems and ensure safe, on-time loading.

❌ Mistake 6: Overlooking Packing Material Quality

Some movers reduce costs by using thin cartons, single-layer wrapping, or reused materials. In a country like India, with rough roads, sudden braking, and unpredictable monsoon weather, poor packing quality is one of the biggest risks.

Problems caused by low-quality packing:

• Dents and scratches on furniture
• Broken crockery, mirrors, and glass items
• Moisture damage to sofas, mattresses, and books
• Cartons tearing during loading/unloading

Better Approach: Demand details about packing material and process:

• Bubble wrap for fragile and glass items
• Corrugated sheets for furniture, doors, and edges
• Stretch film (waterproof) for protection during monsoon or long-distance moves
• Strong cartons that can be safely stacked in the truck

At Singhania Packers & Movers, waterproof packing is standard—especially for Mumbai, Surat, coastal, and long-route moves. This significantly reduces the risk of rain or moisture damage.

❌ Mistake 7: Ignoring Loading, Labour and Floor Charges

Hidden labour charges are one of the most common complaints customers have after shifting. Many movers quote a basic price but don’t include conditions related to labour, floor level, or lift availability.

Typical issues:

• Extra charge for carrying items from ground floor to higher floors if lift is unavailable
• Additional labour cost for long-carry distance from truck to building
• Higher charges if more manpower is needed on the spot

Better Approach: Confirm all labour details upfront:

• Number of workers included in the quote
• Whether floor-carry or lift charges are included
• How charges will change if lift is not working on moving day
• Whether unpacking is included (with Singhania, unpacking is part of our quote)

Clear communication about labour and loading avoids arguments and last-minute surprises.

❌ Mistake 8: Not Clarifying Part-Load vs Load-to-Load Service

When it comes to intercity or long-distance shifting, one of the most important but often ignored decisions is choosing between part-load (shared truck) and load-to-load (dedicated truck).

Part-load (shared truck):

• Cheaper initially because you share truck space with other customers
• Your goods may get off-loaded and re-loaded multiple times
• Higher risk of delays, mixing, and minor damages
• Tracking and exact delivery time may be uncertain

Load-to-load (dedicated truck):

• Your goods stay in one truck from origin to destination
• No mixing with other customers’ goods
• Faster and safer delivery
• Better accountability and tracking

Better Approach:

• Ask clearly: “Is this a part-load or load-to-load service?”
• Choose load-to-load service for complete households, valuable furniture, or long-distance moves for peace of mind.

This is one of our strongest USPs: Singhania Packers & Movers offers dedicated load-to-load transport across India so your household is not mixed with others.

❌ Mistake 9: Ignoring Society / Apartment Permissions

In metro cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Delhi-NCR, Ahmedabad and even in many gated societies in Tier-2 cities, there are strict rules for moving in or out.

Common society-related issues:

• Shifting allowed only in fixed time-slots (e.g., 10 AM – 6 PM)
• Requirement to book goods lift in advance
• No truck parking inside the premises without permission
• Security gate-pass needed to move large items

If these permissions are not managed in advance, it can result in:

• Wasted time for labour and truck
• Penalty charges by society
• Unnecessary stress on moving day

Better Approach:

• Inform your society’s office at least 2–3 days before the move.
• Book the goods lift (if available) for your shifting slot.
• Inform movers about truck parking location, entry gate, and any society rule.
• Share a contact number of the guard or society office with your movers.

❌ Mistake 10: Not Checking Terms & Conditions

Most customers don’t ask about terms & conditions and later feel confused or helpless when any issue arises. Clear terms protect both customer and mover and avoid disputes.

Important T&C points you should clarify:

• Items excluded from shifting: cash, jewellery, documents, inflammables, acids, and liquids are usually not allowed in the truck.
• Payment terms: booking amount, balance payment terms (before loading, during transit, or at delivery).
• Delivery timelines: approximate delivery date and allowance for road delays, traffic, or unforeseen events.
• Responsibility for dismantling and reinstallation of AC, geyser, RO, etc.
• Transit risk coverage: what is covered, what is excluded, and whether it is optional.

Better Approach:

• Ask your mover to share basic terms and conditions in writing.
• Clarify what happens in case of minor damage, transit delay, or unforeseen issues.

At Singhania Packers & Movers, our T&Cs are clear and documented. No surprises, no hidden terms—just transparent, professional relocation.

🚩 Red Flags: How to Avoid Fake or Unreliable Packers and Movers

Along with knowing the mistakes to avoid when hiring packers and movers, it’s important to recognise clear warning signs.

Watch out for these red flags:

• No proper address, only a mobile number and vague location
• Unbelievably low quotes compared to other companies
• No website, no GST number, no registered business details
• No written quotation, only verbal promises
• Pressure to pay large advance in cash to a personal account
• Refusal to show truck or packing material pictures

Safer Approach:

• Choose experienced and reputed packers and movers with verifiable presence.
• Insist on GST-compliant bills if required.
• Pay via traceable methods like bank transfer, UPI, or cheque.
• Check genuine Google reviews and ratings.

✅ Pre-Booking Checklist Before Hiring Packers and Movers

Use this quick checklist before you finalise any movers and packers in India:

• ✔ Verified company name, GST number, and office address
• ✔ Checked Google reviews and ratings
• ✔ Received a written quotation with inclusions and exclusions
• ✔ Confirmed packing material quality and type of service (part-load or load-to-load)
• ✔ Discussed labour, floor, and unloading charges clearly
• ✔ Understood transit risk coverage options (optional)
• ✔ Aligned shifting date and society permissions
• ✔ Created your own moving checklist and labelled boxes room-wise

Following this simple checklist itself helps you avoid 90% of the common mistakes people make during relocation.

💰 Approximate Packers and Movers Charges in India

Exact relocation cost depends on distance, city, volume of goods, packing quality, floor level, and season. However, here is a general idea of average packers and movers charges in India to help you plan your budget.

💡 Final cost depends on distance, volume, floor level, packing material, city, and season of relocation.

For more accurate pricing, you can use our online rate calculator here:
Packers & Movers Rate Calculator India.

📝 Expert Tips to Avoid Shifting Problems

Along with avoiding the mistakes listed above, follow these expert tips for a smooth, hassle-free move:

• Always get a written quote. Never rely only on verbal estimates.
• Book early (7–14 days in advance) to get better rates and confirmed slots.
• Take photos of fragile items and expensive goods before packing.
• Label boxes room-wise and mark fragile cartons clearly.
• Keep valuables (cash, jewellery, documents, laptops) with you, not in the truck.
• Declutter before packing – don’t pay to move unwanted items.
• Keep an essentials box with clothes, medicines, chargers, snacks, and basic utensils for the first 1–2 days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much do packers and movers charge in India?

For a 2BHK local move, packers and movers usually charge around ₹7,000–12,000 depending on the city, floor level, and packing quality. For intercity shifting, the cost can range between ₹18,000–30,000 or more based on distance, volume, and whether you choose part-load or load-to-load service.

2. Is insurance mandatory when hiring packers and movers?

Insurance (or transit risk coverage) is usually not mandatory but highly recommended, especially for long-distance moves or high-value goods. At Singhania Packers & Movers, we offer Transit Risk Coverage at 3% of the declared value, completely optional for customers.

3. What items are not allowed for shifting in the truck?

Generally, the following items are not allowed:

• Cash, jewellery, and important documents
• Inflammable items like petrol, diesel, kerosene, thinner
• Acids, chemicals, and strong liquids that can leak

These should be carried personally by the customer for safety reasons.

4. How early should I book packers and movers?

Ideally, book your movers at least 7–10 days in advance for regular dates, and 2 weeks in advance for month-end, weekends, or festival seasons. Early booking helps you get better rates and ensures availability of the right truck size and manpower.

5. What makes Singhania Packers & Movers different?

We focus on transparent, safe and professional relocation:

• No Hidden Charges
• Dedicated Load-to-Load Service for most intercity moves
• Waterproof, multi-layer Packing
• Transparent Rate Charts and clear estimates
• Optional Transit Risk Coverage @ 3%

6. How can I get an accurate quote for my move?

You can call us, share your inventory list, or request a virtual/physical survey. For a quick idea, use our online
Packers & Movers Rate Calculator, then get a customised quote from our team.

✅ Final Word

Avoiding these 10 common mistakes when hiring packers and movers can save you from stress, disputes, and unexpected expenses. When you choose a professional mover who offers clear communication, quality packing, transparent pricing, and load-to-load transport, your relocation becomes smoother and safer.

At Singhania Packers & Movers, we believe in:

• Honest, transparent quotations
• Waterproof, multi-layer packing
• Dedicated trucks for safer intercity moves
• Professional staff and customer support

📞 Call us today at 9824302113 for a free moving quote or visit
singhaniapackers.com to plan your next move with trusted professionals.