The Most Common Complaints About Bay Area Moving Companies And How to Avoid Them
Moving in the Bay Area can be exciting, a new neighborhood, a fresh start, maybe even a bigger space. But if you’ve ever had a bad experience with a moving company, you know how quickly the excitement can fade. In a place with steep streets, tight parking rules, and unpredictable schedules, a move can turn into chaos if you hire the wrong team.
The reality is that not all moving companies operate with the same level of professionalism or transparency. Over the years, certain complaints have come up again and again from Bay Area customers. Knowing what these are and how to avoid them can make all the difference in having a smooth, stress-free move.
Hidden Fees and Unclear Quotes
One of the most frustrating experiences people report is getting an affordable quote upfront, only to be shocked by the final bill. Many moving companies in the Bay Area add extra costs that were never mentioned in the initial estimate, such as fuel surcharges, “long carry” fees for moving items over certain distances, or additional charges for stairs and elevators. This can turn a move that seemed budget-friendly into a costly headache.
The best way to avoid this problem is to demand transparency from the start. At Lunardi, our free moving quotes are designed to give you a clear picture of the entire cost, whether you’re booking residential moving or commercial moving. We outline every possible expense so you can plan your budget with confidence, without worrying about unpleasant surprises after the job is done.
Late Arrivals or No-Show Crews
Timing is everything on moving day, especially in the Bay Area where building access, HOA restrictions, and elevator reservations are often scheduled down to the minute. Unfortunately, many customers have experienced movers who show up hours late or don’t show up at all. This not only disrupts your plans but can cause a cascade of delays, from missing your building’s move-in window to paying extra for overtime in your old place.
We take punctuality seriously at Lunardi. When you hire us for a same-day move or any pre-booked relocation, we commit to arriving on time and ready to work. Our crews understand that respecting your schedule is just as important as handling your belongings with care.
Damaged Furniture or Property
From San Francisco’s famously narrow staircases to the steep driveways in Los Gatos, moving here can be tough on your furniture and even your walls or floors. While accidents can happen, many movers fail to take proper precautions, skipping protective coverings, rushing the process, or using inadequate packing materials. The result can be scratches, dents, or broken items that could have been avoided.
At Lunardi, we see your belongings as more than just “stuff” — they’re part of your life. That’s why our full packing services include professional wrapping, padding, and protection for everything we move. We use the right materials and techniques to ensure your furniture, walls, and floors stay in perfect condition from start to finish.
Missing or Lost Items
There’s nothing worse than unpacking in your new home and realizing a box, or worse, something irreplaceable, didn’t make it. Poor organization, lack of labeling, and rushed loading or unloading are common culprits. In some cases, customers have no way to prove whether something was even loaded in the first place, leaving them frustrated and without answers.
Our approach eliminates that uncertainty. Every box and item is clearly labeled, and we maintain an organized loading system so nothing is misplaced along the way. Even if your belongings are stored temporarily in our storage solutions, they’re tracked and handled with the same level of care as if they were headed straight to your new home.
Shady or Unlicensed Operators
While there are many reputable movers in the Bay Area, there are also companies that operate without proper licensing or insurance. Some of these unlicensed movers lure customers in with low prices, only to demand full payment before unloading or, in extreme cases, hold belongings “hostage” until extra fees are paid.
Choosing a fully licensed and insured company isn’t just about following the law, it’s about protecting your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind. Lunardi is proud to be a licensed Bay Area moving company with the credentials and reputation to back up our promises. When you work with us, you’re not taking a gamble, you’re hiring a team that values honesty, safety, and professionalism.
Why Bay Area Locals Trust Lunardi Moving Services
Our commitment to transparency, reliability, and care has earned us the trust of customers throughout San Jose, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Los Gatos, San Francisco, and beyond. We believe a moving company should be more than just a truck and a crew, it should be a partner who makes one of life’s most stressful events easier, safer, and even a little more enjoyable.
Whether you’re planning a small apartment move, a corporate relocation, or a transition between homes with storage in between, we have the experience, equipment, and dedication to get it done right.
