No-show movers? No problem!

Relax: We got you. MoveBuddy is here to help you through even the worst case scenario

It’s not something that you want to think about. However, worst-case scenarios often can happen.

Sometimes movers fail to show up at the scheduled time.  

It should never happen – and will never happen if you book a reputable company through MoveBuddy – but if you are worried about it happening and want to have a plan in place to deal with all possible situations, MoveBuddy is here to offer you some guidance on what to do if your movers don’t show up.  

If you are arriving here because movers you have hired for a current move have not shown up and are looking for possible solutions, please skip ahead to the final section.  

Why Movers May Not Show Up

It may seem unlikely, but there are instances where movers fail to appear at the scheduled time. Several reasons could contribute to this, such as:

1. Accidental double booking without realization until the scheduled day.

2. Traffic delays, especially in areas with heavy congestion.

3. Issues with the moving vehicle, whether scheduling or mechanical.

4. Incorrect address or navigation problems.

5. Shortage of staff due to illness or a family emergency.

6. The moving company might not be legitimate (though uncommon).

Ideally, the company or movers should inform you of any issues. However, if you receive no communication and are left stranded, it's essential to have a backup plan.

Plan B Options

If you can't reach your moving company and they fail to show up, consider these alternatives:

1. Use MoveBuddy to find another available moving company

2. Have a backup date scheduled with another local moving company, family, or friends.

3. For long-distance moves, explore storage options until the moving details are sorted out.

While relying on a backup plan is rare, having one in mind ensures preparedness for unforeseen circumstances.

Effective Communication with Your Moving Company

Improving communication minimizes the risk of movers not showing up and safeguards your belongings. Consider the following tips:

1. Ensure clarity in the contract, providing a reference point for agreements.

2. Call the company a week before the move to double-check details.

3. Identify a contact person for the movers on the moving day.

4. Obtain the names of the movers for better communication.

5. Minimize interruptions but stay informed by walking with the movers.

6. Maintain kindness in interactions for smoother cooperation.

7. Use concise "sound bites" to convey information efficiently.

8. Leave multiple communication options for long-distance moves.

I need help now: My movers have not shown up

You have come to the right place. MoveBuddy is a free service that can help connect you with the right people to rectify the situation.  

The first thing you need to do is to make sure that there hasn’t been a misunderstanding on the hired mover’s side. The best way to resolve this situation is to have the original movers complete the job you hired them for.  

If you manage to get in touch with them, remain calm and professional. There will be time to deal with any potential financial compensation for your trouble later. Right now, getting the move completed is your most pressing concern. Be firm but remain professional.

If the situation with the original movers is not fixable, you are going to need to make new arrangements. If you can remain in your current location for an extra day, you should contact MoveBuddy for free assistance in finding movers who can complete a last-minute job.

MoveBuddy puts all of our partners through a 95-point inspection and requires them to meet the buddyguarantee. The company you hire through MoveBuddy will be trustworthy and dependable.  

If you need to vacate your current location immediately and MoveBuddy cannot find you a same-day mover, then you should do the following:

1. Find a self-storage location that can house your belongings

2. Rent a van to transport your belongings to the self-storage location (ask your self-storage location if they have a free van available)

3. Find a place for you to stay  

4. Secure a mover  

5. Seek compensation from the mover who failed to meet their contractual obligations

If your mover doesn’t show up it’s not ideal, but it’s not the end of the world. With a little help from MoveBuddy you can find your way through the situation.  

MoveBuddy is here to help. Bookmark our Learning Centre for more tips on moving, renovating and dealing with other common household issues.