Hiring a moving company is more or less like hiring any other service provider. The service provider should be capable, credible and must offer good quality packing and shifting services. And to avoid shocking surprises, you should check the documents of the moving companies you are considering to hire. Also ask the movers for a detailed quotation, with no hidden charges. You should also clarify about the payment terms and take everything in writing. And last but not the least; be careful with moving companies that offer hard to believe rates, because they may surprise you later on.