Select a Professional Moving Company near you in Manila

A Complete Guide for Expats

How to Choose a Moving Company in Manila – Philippines

Moving to or within Manila can be both exciting and overwhelming. As the bustling capital of the Philippines, Manila presents unique challenges for relocating families, professionals, and expats. From navigating traffic-congested streets to understanding local moving regulations, choosing the right moving company is crucial for a smooth transition. This comprehensive guide will help you select a reliable moving partner in Manila while avoiding common pitfalls.

Understanding the Manila Moving Landscape

Manila’s moving industry has grown significantly to serve the expanding expat community and local population. Whether you’re relocating from Makati‘s business district to a quieter neighborhood in Quezon City, or moving internationally to the Philippines, understanding what to look for in a moving company will save you time, money, and stress.

The Philippine capital presents specific logistical challenges including narrow streets in older neighborhoods, strict building regulations, and varying traffic conditions that can impact moving schedules. Professional movers familiar with these local conditions will navigate these obstacles efficiently.

Research and Compare Moving Companies in the Philippines Thoroughly

Your first step should be comprehensive research. Start by identifying moving companies with established operations in Metro Manila. Look for movers with a proven track record serving both local and international clients.

Key companies to consider include:

Asian Tigers Philippines
- Established over 40 years ago, highly experienced in international door‑to‑door moves for expats, diplomats and multinationals.
- Offers sea and air shipments, local moves, pet relocation and full packing with FAIM‑accredited quality standards.
Asia Relocation Philippines
- Manila‑founded one‑stop relocation firm offering local, inter‑island and international moving across the Philippines, Vietnam and Thailand.
- Covers shipping, storage, home search, cultural and language orientation, car leasing, and visa/immigration support.
Santa Fe Relocation Manila
- Global mobility company with 50+ years’ experience, listed among key international relocation providers serving the Philippines.
- Provides full‑spectrum services: household goods moving, home and school search, orientation, immigration and pet relocation.
SIRVA (via partners in PH)
- Global relocation company cited as a leading provider of international relocation services for moves involving the Philippines.
- Manages end‑to‑end corporate programs: policy design, move management, temporary housing and destination services.
ISS Relocations (to/from Philippines)
- International mover serving routes between the Philippines and hubs such as UAE, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, India and more.
- Offers house moves, pet transport, warehousing and visa assistance with flexible pricing packages.

Dad’s Moving & Storage (and similar local movers)
- Named among relocation‑related service companies in the Philippines, typically focusing on domestic and storage solutions.
- Can complement international movers by handling local distribution, storage or smaller internal moves.

Don’t limit yourself to big names. Local moving companies often provide excellent service at competitive rates, especially for domestic moves within Metro Manila.

Where to Find Reliable Reviews

Check multiple sources before making your decision:

Google Business Reviews – Look for consistent positive feedback
Facebook Expat Groups – Philippines expat communities share honest experiences
Yelp and TripAdvisor – International platforms with verified reviews
LinkedIn Recommendations – Professional endorsements for corporate moves

Pay attention to reviews mentioning punctuality, care of belongings, and problem resolution. Red flags include multiple complaints about hidden fees, damaged items, or poor communication.

Verify Philippians Credentials and Insurance Coverage

In the Philippines, legitimate moving companies should be registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) or Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Don’t hesitate to ask for registration numbers and verify them online through the DTI website.

Essential Credentials to Check

Business Registration: Confirm the company is legally registered to operate in the Philippines. This protects you legally if issues arise during your move.
Insurance Coverage: Ensure the moving company provides adequate insurance for your belongings. Ask specific questions:

- What type of coverage is included in the quoted price?
- What is the claims process if items are damaged?
- Are high-value items like electronics and artwork covered?
- Is there additional insurance available for international moves?

Professional movers should carry liability insurance and offer cargo insurance options. For international relocations, comprehensive marine insurance is essential.

International License: Companies handling overseas moves should be IAM or EURA members and comply with Philippian customs regulations.

Evaluate Moving Services Offered

Moving companies in Manila offer varying service levels. Understanding what’s included helps you compare quotes accurately and choose based on your needs.

Full-Service Moving Packages

Full-service movers handle everything from packing to unpacking at your new location. This option is ideal for busy professionals, families with children, or anyone relocating internationally who wants minimal involvement.

Typical full-service packages include:

- Professional packing using quality materials
- Disassembly and reassembly of furniture
- Loading and transportation
- Unloading and placement in your new home
- Unpacking and debris removal
- Storage solutions if needed

Partial Services and Labor-Only Options

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer to pack yourself, many companies offer labor-only services. You handle packing and transportation arrangements, while they provide the manpower for heavy lifting.

Consider partial services for:

- Local moves within short distances
- Smaller apartments or condos
- Budget-conscious relocations
- Moves with minimal furniture

Specialized Services

Manila’s growing expat population has increased demand for specialized services:

Vehicle Transportation: Some movers can ship your car domestically or internationally, handling customs clearance and documentation.
Pet Relocation: Professional pet transport services ensure your furry family members travel safely and meet quarantine requirements.
Storage Solutions : Secure, climate-controlled storage facilities in Manila are valuable if your move involves temporary housing or staged relocation.
Corporate Relocation : Companies transferring employees benefit from specialized corporate relocation services including orientation and settling-in support.

Get Detailed Quotes and Compare Pricing

Never accept the first quote without comparison. Contact at least three moving companies for detailed estimates. Reputable movers offer free, no-obligation quotes, often conducting on-site or virtual surveys.

What to Request in Your Quote

A comprehensive quote should include:

- Itemized breakdown of all costs
- Packing materials and labor charges
- Transportation fees
- Insurance coverage and costs
- Storage fees if applicable
- Customs clearance for international moves
- Additional fees for stairs, elevators, or difficult access

⚠️ Beware of suspiciously low quotes. Extremely cheap prices often indicate hidden fees, inadequate insurance, or substandard service. Quality moving services require proper equipment, trained staff, and comprehensive coverage.

Understanding Price Factors

Several factors affect moving costs in Manila:

Distance: Local Metro Manila moves cost less than provincial or international relocations.
Volume / weight of belongings; More belongings mean higher costs. Consider decluttering before moving.
Building restrictions: Elevator use, access roads; Buildings without elevators, narrow streets, or limited parking increase costs.
Seasonal demand: Peak season (summer months and year-end) typically sees higher rates.
Special items: Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other valuable items require special handling.

Assess Customer Service and Communication

Professional movers distinguish themselves through excellent customer service. From your first inquiry, evaluate how the company treats you.

Pre-Move Survey

Reputable moving companies conduct thorough pre-move surveys, either in-person or virtually. During this assessment, they:

Evaluate the volume of belongings
Identify items requiring special handling
Assess access points and potential challenges
Discuss your specific needs and timeline
Provide accurate cost estimates

This survey demonstrates professionalism and helps avoid surprises on moving day.

Communication Standards

Choose movers who:

Respond promptly to inquiries
Provide clear, written communication
Assign a dedicated coordinator to your move
Offer multiple contact methods (phone, email, WhatsApp)
Keep you updated throughout the process

🚨 Poor communication before the move often signals problems during execution.

Understand Local Logistics and Regulations

Manila’s unique urban environment creates specific moving challenges. Experienced local movers understand these nuances.

Building and Condominium Requirements

Many Manila condominiums have strict moving regulations:

Reserved Moving Hours: Often limited to specific days and times (weekdays, avoiding rush hours)
Elevator Reservations: Must be booked in advance, sometimes requiring deposits
Building Insurance: Some condos require movers to provide insurance certificates
Access Passes: Security clearance may take several days to process

Your moving company should be familiar with these requirements and handle necessary arrangements. Ask specifically about their experience with your building if relocating to/from a condominium.

Traffic Considerations

Manila’s notorious traffic significantly impacts moving schedules. Professional movers:

Plan routes avoiding peak congestion times
Allow buffer time for unexpected delays
Coordinate timing with building restrictions
Provide realistic timelines considering traffic patterns

Early morning starts (before 7 AM) often work best for Manila moves, avoiding worst traffic conditions.

Parking and Access

Narrow streets in areas like Binondo, Malate, or older Quezon City neighborhoods present access challenges. Discuss with your mover:

Vehicle size appropriate for your street
Parking arrangements and permits
Distance from truck to door
Additional fees for extended carrying distances

Best Office Moving Company in Manila

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire a moving company in the Philippines?

The cost depends on several factors, including the distance, volume of belongings, and type of service.

Local moves in Metro Manila typically range from ₱10,000 to ₱30,000 for a small apartment.
International moves can vary widely depending on destination and shipping method.
Always request a detailed quote including packing materials, insurance, and customs fees to avoid hidden charges.

For a custom quotation depending on your location and the size of your belonging, please contact us.

How do I know if a moving company is legitimate in the Philippines?

Legitimate moving companies should be registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) or the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
You can verify their registration number on the DTI’s online portal.
Also, check if the company provides a written contract, insurance options, and has a physical office address — all key indicators of reliability.

You can also read reviews about what people are saying about Asia Relocation Philippines.

Do moving companies in the Philippines offer international relocation services?

Yes — several professional movers, including Asia Relocation Philippines, provide full international moving services.
These typically include packing, freight shipping, customs clearance, and destination delivery.
For smooth global transfers, choose companies that are IAM or EURA members, as they meet international service and compliance standards.

Asia Relocation also have offices in Vietnam and Thailand.

Red Flags to Avoid

Protect yourself by recognizing warning signs of unreliable movers:

No Physical Address: Legitimate businesses have verifiable office locations, not just mobile numbers.
Cash-Only Payments: Professional companies accept various payment methods and provide receipts.
No Written Contract: Always insist on detailed written agreements specifying services, costs, and responsibilities.
Extremely Low Quotes: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Vague Insurance Information: Reputable movers clearly explain coverage options.
Poor Online Presence: Established companies maintain professional websites and positive review profiles.
Pressure Tactics: High-pressure sales techniques often indicate questionable practices.

Making Your Final Decision

After researching, comparing quotes, and verifying credentials, trust your instincts. Choose a moving company that:

Demonstrates professionalism throughout interactions
Provides transparent pricing without hidden fees
Shows genuine understanding of your specific needs
Offers appropriate insurance coverage
Has verifiable positive reviews and references
Employs trained, professional staff
Uses quality packing materials and equipment

Preparing for Your Move

Once you’ve selected your moving company, take these final steps:

Confirm Everything in Writing: Ensure your contract includes all discussed services, costs, and timelines.
Create an Inventory: Document valuable items with photos before packing.
Communicate Special Requirements: Inform movers of fragile items, special handling needs, or access restrictions.
Plan for Moving Day: Arrange parking permits, elevator reservations, and building clearances in advance.
Keep Valuables With You: Transport important documents, jewelry, and irreplaceable items personally.

Conclusion

Choosing the right moving company in Manila requires careful research, comparison, and attention to credentials. By following this guide, you’ll find a reliable moving partner who understands Manila’s unique challenges and delivers your belongings safely to your new home.

Whether you’re relocating within Metro Manila or moving internationally to the Philippines, investing time in selecting the right mover ensures a smooth, stress-free transition. Start your research early, ask detailed questions, and don’t compromise on insurance coverage and professional credentials.

👉 Read why Remote workers choose relocation experts

For comprehensive relocation support including visa assistance, home search, and settling-in services in the Philippines, explore Asia Relocation’s Philippines services to make your move even easier.

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Contact Asia Relocation Philippines