If you’re planning a move to or from the St. Louis area, you’ll quickly see two very different options online: actual moving companies and moving brokers. Understanding the difference can save you stress, surprise costs, and a lot of back‑and‑forth on moving day.
What is a moving broker?
A moving broker is a middleman. They don’t own trucks, employ movers, or have a local crew. Instead, they collect your information, give you a quote, and then sell your move to an actual carrier that will show up with the truck and labor. Many brokers operate nationwide and rely on quick online or phone estimates rather than an in‑home or virtual survey of your belongings.
That can sometimes lead to low “teaser” quotes that increase later if the move is larger or more complex than what was described over the phone. When problems arise, communication can also get confusing because you booked with one company, but a different company is actually handling your items.
What is an actual moving company?
An actual moving company (also called a carrier) is the business that owns the trucks, employs the crews, and physically moves your belongings. For interstate moves, these companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), carry proper insurance, and follow federal consumer‑protection rules. That means providing written estimates, required brochures about your rights, and clear paperwork before anything is loaded.
Local, full‑service movers can also offer packing, short‑ and long‑term storage, specialty item handling, and a single point of contact to help you plan each step. You know who is coming to your home, you can check their reviews under their own name, and you can verify their USDOT and MC numbers directly with FMCSA.
Why St. Louis homeowners choose Dodge Moving & Storage
Dodge Moving & Storage is not a broker—we are a St. Louis moving company that has been serving families, seniors, and businesses since 1902. Our own professional crews, modern fleet, and secure storage facilities in the metro area allow us to manage your move from start to finish, rather than handing you off to an unknown third party.
As a Mayflower agent and previous BBB Torch Award winner for Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois, Dodge has completed more than 150,000 relocations with a focus on careful handling and clear communication. Whether you’re moving across town, across the country, or need storage in between, you work directly with our team—one company, one name, and one point of accountability.
How to tell who you’re really talking to
Before you book any mover online, ask a simple question: “Are you a moving broker or an actual moving company that will perform my move?” Then:
Look for a physical local address and branded trucks, not just a website and call center.
Ask for their USDOT and MC numbers and verify them on the FMCSA “Protect Your Move” website.
Be cautious of large cash deposits, no in‑home or virtual survey, or pressure to sign quickly.
If you’d like a free, no‑obligation estimate from a real St. Louis moving company—not a broker—Dodge Moving & Storage is ready to help. Request your quote today, and let our local team handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on settling into your new home.