Choosing the wrong shifting service can turn your exciting move into a nightmare. Damaged belongings, hidden charges, unprofessional behavior, or worseβmovers who disappear with your possessions. Unfortunately, these scenarios happen more often than you’d think in Bangladesh’s largely unregulated moving industry.
The good news? With proper research and the right questions, you can identify reliable, professional moving companies and avoid costly mistakes. This comprehensive guide will teach you exactly what to look for when choosing a shifting service in Bangladesh.
WHY CHOOSING THE RIGHT MOVER MATTERS
The Real Cost of a Bad Choice
Consider these real scenarios from Dhaka residents:
Scenario 1: The Disappearing Act Shahana from Dhanmondi paid ৳15,000 advance to a “moving company” found on Facebook. On moving day, nobody showed up. The phone number was disconnected. She lost her money and had to find emergency movers at double the price.
Scenario 2: The Hidden Charges Kamal received a quote for ৳20,000 for his Gulshan to Uttara move. On moving day, the movers demanded ৳35,000, claiming “unexpected charges” for stairs, heavy items, and “extra time.” With his belongings already loaded, he had no choice but to pay.
Scenario 3: The Damage Disaster Nadia hired the cheapest movers for her Banani apartment. They arrived with no packing materials, dropped her television, broke her dining table, and scratched her furniture. The “company” refused responsibility and had no insurance.
These situations are preventable. This guide shows you how.
RED FLAGS: SIGNS OF UNRELIABLE MOVERS
Before we discuss what to look for, let’s identify warning signs to avoid:
Immediate Red Flags
π© No Physical Address
Only a mobile number with no office location
π© Too Good to Be True Pricing
Significantly cheaper than all competitors without explanation
π© Cash-Only, Full Advance Payment
Demanding 100% payment upfront in cash only
π© No Written Quote or Contract
Verbal agreements only, no documentation
π© No Online Presence
No website, no reviews, no social media history
π© Pressure Tactics
“This price is only good today” or “We’re almost fully booked”
π© Unwilling to Show Credentials
Refuses to provide trade license, insurance proof, or references
π© Vague Answers
Can’t provide clear answers about services, process, or terms
π© Unprofessional Communication
Poor language, unprofessional behavior, inconsistent information
π© No Site Inspection Offer
Gives quote without seeing your belongings or location
If you encounter multiple red flags, walk away. A few hundred taka saved isn’t worth the risk of thousands in damages or losses.
STEP 1: RESEARCH AND SHORTLIST
Where to Find Moving Companies
Reliable Sources:
- Google search with reviews
- Company websites
- Established business directories
- Recommendations from friends/family
- Corporate relocation departments
- Real estate agents
Less Reliable (Use Caution):
- Random Facebook ads
- Unverified classified ads
- Individuals claiming to be companies
- Door-to-door solicitors
Initial Research Checklist
For each potential company, verify:
β Physical Office Location
Visit or verify the address exists
β Years in Business
Established companies have track records
β Online Reviews
Google reviews, Facebook ratings, testimonials
β Website Quality
Professional website indicates serious business
β Contact Information
Multiple contact methods (phone, email, WhatsApp)
β Service Range
Clear description of services offered
β Social Media Presence
Active, established accounts with customer interactions
Create a Shortlist:
After initial research, shortlist 3-5 companies that pass the basic credibility test.
STEP 2: VERIFY CREDENTIALS AND LEGITIMACY
Essential Documents to Request
- Trade License Every legitimate business in Bangladesh must have a trade license from the city corporation.
- Ask to see it
- Note the license number
- Verify it’s current (not expired)
- Company name should match exactly
- Business Registration
- RJSC (Registrar of Joint Stock Companies) registration
- Or sole proprietorship registration
- Should be easily providable
- Insurance Documentation Professional movers should have:
- Liability Insurance: Covers damages during moves
- Worker’s Compensation: Protects their employees
- Ask for insurance company name and policy number
- Verify coverage limits
- Professional Certifications While not mandatory in Bangladesh, some companies have:
- Quality certifications
- Professional association memberships
- Training certifications for staff
Dhaka Specific Verification:
- Check with Dhaka North/South City Corporation
- Verify business registration online if possible
- Ask for taxpayer identification number (TIN)
Red Flag: Any hesitation or refusal to provide these documents indicates lack of legitimacy.
STEP 3: CONTACT AND INITIAL SCREENING
The Phone/Message Test
Your first contact reveals a lot:
Positive Signs:
- Professional greeting
- Clear communication
- Knowledgeable about services
- Asks relevant questions about your move
- Offers to schedule site inspection
- Patient with your questions
- Provides clear pricing structure
Negative Signs:
- Rude or unprofessional behavior
- Pushes for immediate booking
- Can’t answer basic questions
- Vague about pricing
- No interest in understanding your needs
- Won’t schedule inspection
Questions to Ask During Initial Contact
About Their Service:
- How long have you been in business?
- How many moves do you complete monthly?
- What areas do you serve?
- What services are included in your packages?
- Do you provide packing materials?
- Do you handle appliance installation (AC, fridge)?
- Do you offer cleaning services?
About Their Team: 8. How many workers will be assigned to my move? 9. Are your workers trained and background-verified? 10. Do you use day laborers or permanent staff? 11. Will the same team handle loading and unloading?
About Pricing: 12. How do you calculate charges? 13. What’s included in the base price? 14. What additional charges might apply? 15. Do you charge for stairs/floors? 16. What’s your payment schedule? 17. What payment methods do you accept?
About Protection: 18. Do you provide insurance coverage? 19. What’s your policy on damaged items? 20. How do you handle claims? 21. What’s your cancellation/rescheduling policy?
Take notes on responses. Professional companies will answer confidently and clearly.
STEP 4: SCHEDULE SITE INSPECTIONS
Why Site Inspection Matters
Never accept a quote without a site inspection. Professional movers need to see:
- Volume of items
- Type of items (fragile, heavy, oversized)
- Access points (stairs, elevator, narrow doorways)
- Distance from door to truck parking
- Floor level
- Special handling requirements
Free Inspections:
Reputable companies offer free, no-obligation inspections. Be wary of companies charging for quotes.
What to Expect During Inspection
Professional Inspectors Will:
- Arrive on time
- Wear company uniform or ID
- Walk through every room
- Ask about items requiring special care
- Note furniture dimensions
- Check access routes
- Ask about parking availability
- Discuss your moving date flexibility
- Explain their process
- Answer all your questions
- Provide written quote before leaving
What to Show and Discuss:
- All items being moved
- Items requiring disassembly
- Fragile or valuable items
- Items you’ll pack yourself vs. professional packing
- Appliances needing disconnection/connection
- Any items staying behind
- Special requests or concerns
Document Everything
Take notes or record (with permission) the inspection conversation. This prevents “we never said that” situations later.
STEP 5: COMPARE QUOTES CAREFULLY
Understanding the Quote
A professional quote should include:
Basic Information:
- Company name and contact
- Date of quote
- Your name and addresses (current and new)
- Estimated moving date
- Quote validity period
Detailed Breakdown:
- Labor charges
- Transportation charges
- Packing materials (if applicable)
- Packing services (if applicable)
- Appliance services (if applicable)
- Any additional services
- Floor/stairs charges (if applicable)
- Total estimated cost
Terms and Conditions:
- Payment schedule
- Cancellation policy
- Damage liability
- Insurance coverage
- What’s included/excluded
Comparing Apples to Apples
Create a comparison spreadsheet:
| Company | Total Cost | Included Services | Insurance | Payment Terms | Reviews | Overall Impression |
| Company A | ৳25,000 | Full packing, transport | Yes | 30-40-30% | 4.5β | Professional |
| Company B | ৳18,000 | Transport only | No | 100% advance | 3.0β | Suspicious |
| Company C | ৳22,000 | Partial packing, transport | Yes | 10-40-50% | 4.8β | Very professional |
Price Considerations
Too Cheap = Risky If one quote is 40-50% cheaper than others, ask why:
- Do they have hidden charges?
- Are they using day laborers instead of trained staff?
- Do they lack insurance?
- Is quality compromised?
Most Expensive β Best High price doesn’t guarantee quality. Evaluate total value:
- Services included
- Company reputation
- Insurance coverage
- Professional approach
Fair Market Rates in Dhaka (2024):
- Studio/1BHK: ৳8,000-৳15,000
- 2BHK: ৳12,000-৳25,000
- 3BHK: ৳18,000-৳35,000
- 4BHK+: ৳25,000-৳50,000+
Prices vary based on distance, services, and complexity
Hidden Charges to Watch For
Unscrupulous movers add charges on moving day:
- “Heavier than estimated” fees
- “More items than expected” charges
- “Difficult access” fees not mentioned
- “Extra time” charges
- “Helper” charges
- “Fuel surcharge”
- “Weekend/holiday premium”
Protection: Get everything in writing. “Any charges not mentioned in written quote must be approved before work begins.”
STEP 6: CHECK REFERENCES AND REVIEWS
Online Reviews
Where to Check:
- Google Business Reviews
- Facebook Page Reviews
- Company website testimonials
- Online forums and groups
How to Evaluate Reviews:
- Look for patterns, not individual complaints
- Recent reviews matter more than old ones
- Detailed reviews more credible than generic “good service”
- Check how company responds to negative reviews
- Beware of all 5-star reviews (might be fake)
Red Flags in Reviews:
- Multiple complaints about same issues
- Reports of damage without resolution
- Hidden charges complaints
- Unprofessional behavior
- Items going missing
- Company doesn’t respond to negative reviews
Ask for References
Professional companies should provide references:
- Names and numbers of recent customers
- Similar move types (size, distance)
- Call at least 2-3 references
Questions for References:
- How was your overall experience?
- Did they arrive on time?
- Were there any unexpected charges?
- How did they handle your belongings?
- Any damage? How was it resolved?
- Were workers professional?
- Would you use them again?
- Any advice for me?
STEP 7: UNDERSTAND THE CONTRACT
Essential Contract Elements
Never proceed without a written contract. It should include:
Service Details:
- Exact services being provided
- Moving date (and backup date if applicable)
- Pickup and delivery addresses
- Estimated time/duration
Financial Terms:
- Total agreed price
- Payment schedule (when and how much)
- Accepted payment methods
- Cancellation fees
- Rescheduling policy
Liability and Insurance:
- Insurance coverage details
- Damage compensation policy
- Claims process
- Maximum liability limits
- Items excluded from coverage
Special Instructions:
- Fragile items list
- Valuable items requiring extra care
- Appliances to be disconnected/connected
- Furniture to be disassembled/reassembled
- Any specific customer requirements
Both Parties’ Information:
- Company details (name, address, contact)
- Your details
- Signatures and date
Read Before Signing
Don’t Sign If:
- You don’t understand something
- Terms are vague or unclear
- It contradicts what was verbally promised
- You feel pressured
- Important details are missing
Ask Questions:
- “What does this clause mean?”
- “What happens if…?”
- “Is this negotiable?”
Get a Copy:
Always get your signed copy of the contract before making any payment.
STEP 8: PAYMENT PROTECTION
Safe Payment Practices
Payment Schedule:
Never pay 100% upfront. Standard schedules:
- Within Dhaka: 10% advance, 40% during service, 50% completion
- Outside Dhaka: 30% advance, 40% during service, 30% completion
Payment Methods:
- Bank transfer (traceable)
- bKash merchant payment (traceable)
- Check (for corporate clients)
- Cash (get receipt immediately)
Avoid:
- Personal mobile banking (bKash/Nagad to personal number)
- 100% cash advance
- Payment without receipt
Receipt Requirements: Every payment should have:
- Company letterhead/stamp
- Date and amount
- Service description
- Balance due
- Authorized signature
Keep Records:
- Payment receipts
- Bank transfer confirmations
- Written communications
- Photos/videos
- Contract copy
STEP 9: FINAL VERIFICATION BEFORE MOVING DAY
One Week Before
Confirm Everything:
- Call to reconfirm date and time
- Verify address details
- Review services included
- Confirm number of workers
- Discuss parking arrangements
- Review payment terms
Prepare:
- Finish packing (if DIY)
- Prepare payment
- Create inventory list
- Take photos of valuable items
- Pack essentials box separately
Moving Day Checklist
When Movers Arrive: β Verify they’re from the company (ask for ID)
β Walk through with supervisor
β Point out fragile/valuable items
β Review the plan
β Ask any last-minute questions
During the Move: β Supervise loading
β Check items against inventory
β Note any immediate damage
β Keep contract and receipts handy
β Maintain communication
At Delivery: β Check all items arrived
β Inspect for damage immediately
β Note any issues on delivery document
β Complete payment per agreement
β Get final receipt
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR BANGLADESH
Dhaka-Specific Challenges
Traffic:
Professional movers plan for Dhaka’s traffic:
- Early morning moves (6-8 AM)
- Alternative routes knowledge
- Buffer time built into schedule
- Experienced drivers
Building Regulations:
Some buildings require:
- Advance notice to management
- Specific moving hours
- Elevator reservations
- Security deposits
Narrow Lanes:
Many Dhaka neighborhoods have narrow lanes:
- Verify vehicle access beforehand
- Professional movers have multiple vehicle sizes
- May require hand-carrying from main road
Weather:
Monsoon season (June-September) requires:
- Extra waterproofing
- Weather contingency plans
- Flexible scheduling
Political Situation:
Hartals and political events:
- Check political calendar
- Have backup moving dates
- Professional companies monitor situation
- Force majeure clauses in contract
Cultural Considerations
Religious Items:
Inform movers about:
- Quran Sharif, prayer items
- Hindu deity statues
- Buddhist artifacts
- Any items requiring respectful handling
Auspicious Dates:
Some families prefer moving on auspicious days:
- Discuss with astrologer/religious advisor
- Book well in advance for popular dates
Community:
In close-knit Bangladesh communities:
- Inform neighbors (courtesy and parking)
- Get building permission
- Arrange for helper access
AFTER THE MOVE: FOLLOW-UP
Inspect Everything
Within 24-48 hours:
- Unpack and inspect all items
- Check appliances work properly
- Note any damage immediately
- Take photos of damage
Filing Claims
If damage occurred:
- Document: Photos, videos, written description
- Report: Contact company immediately
- Follow Process: Use claims procedure in contract
- Timeline: Most companies require claims within 7 days
- Be Reasonable: Understand compensation limits
Leave a Review
Help future customers:
- Write honest review on Google/Facebook
- Mention specific positives and negatives
- Be fair and factual
- Include details that would help others decide
Good Experience?
Share your positive experience. Good companies deserve recognition.
Bad Experience?
Detail what went wrong. Help others avoid the same mistakes.
QUICK DECISION-MAKING CHECKLIST
Use this final checklist before making your decision:
Company Legitimacy
- β Verified trade license
- β Physical office location confirmed
- β Years in business (3+ years preferred)
- β Insurance documentation verified
- β Professional online presence
Service Quality
- β Conducted site inspection
- β Provided detailed written quote
- β Clear terms and conditions
- β Professional communication
- β Answered all questions satisfactorily
Financial
- β Price within market range
- β All charges clearly explained
- β No hidden fee concerns
- β Acceptable payment schedule
- β Receipt/invoice provided
Reputation
- β Positive online reviews (4+ stars)
- β Checked references
- β No major red flags
- β Responsive to concerns
- β Professional throughout
Contract
- β Everything in writing
- β Read and understood fully
- β Acceptable terms
- β Signed copy received
- β No pressure or concerns
If you can check most boxes, you’ve likely found a reliable mover.
BASACHANGE: YOUR RELIABLE MOVING PARTNER
At BasaChange, we understand that choosing a shifting service is about trust. That’s why we’ve built our reputation on:
β Transparency: Clear pricing, no hidden charges
β Professionalism: Trained, background-verified staff
β Reliability: Thousands of successful moves across Bangladesh
β Accountability: Proper insurance and damage compensation
β Customer Focus: Your satisfaction is our priority
We’ve created this guide because we believe informed customers make better decisionsβwhether they choose us or another reputable company.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Choosing a reliable shifting service in Bangladesh requires diligence, but it’s time well invested. The difference between a smooth, stress-free move and a nightmare experience often comes down to the company you choose.
Remember the key principles:
- Research thoroughly – Don’t rush the decision
- Verify credentials – Legitimate companies have nothing to hide
- Get everything in writing – Verbal promises mean nothing
- Trust your instincts – If something feels wrong, it probably is
- Don’t choose on price alone – Value matters more than cost
The ideal moving company is transparent, professional, experienced, insured, and comes highly recommended. They treat your belongings with care and your concerns with respect.
Take your time, follow this guide, and you’ll find a reliable partner for your move.
READY TO MOVE WITH CONFIDENCE?
BasaChange offers reliable, professional shifting services throughout Bangladesh. Get your free, no-obligation quote today.
π Call: 01766-628133
π» Website: www.basachange.com.bd
π Office: 238/1, Maruf Marker (3rd Floor), Mouchak Moor, Dhaka-1217
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