AI search isn’t some “next big thing.” It’s already here, and it’s already deciding which moving companies show up when people ask tools like ChatGPT, Siri, or Alexa for help.
If you’re not in those results, you don’t exist. At least not to the customer.
This isn’t about learning to code or hiring some tech bro to “optimize your metadata.” This is about doing the right things—things you can do—to make sure your company shows up when someone says, “Hey, who’s the best mover in Fort Worth?”
Let’s break it down.
What the heck is AI search anyway?
Here’s the deal: AI search doesn't give people a list of 10 links and a bunch of ads anymore. When someone asks, “Who’s the best mover in Tampa?” the AI spits out a few names, usually the biggest guys in moving. No scrolling. No comparing. That's your shot. If you're not there, you're nowhere.
And this isn’t “someday” stuff:
- 68% of people trust AI recommendations as much as human ones (Source: Salesforce, 2024)
- Over 50% of local search is already voice-based (Source: Think with Google)
- ChatGPT is already being used by millions to research local businesses, and yes, that includes movers (Source: Pew Research Center)
If you're still relying only on Google Ads or SEO tricks from 2017, it's time to update your playbook.
How can you tell if AI search is sending you leads?
You won’t see a tidy line in your CRM labeled “AI traffic.” But the signs are there—if you know what to look for.
Think of them like muddy boot prints leading to your front door:
- Unexplained calls from Google: Your Google Business Profile is getting more activity, but customers didn’t click through your website.
- Vague attribution: People say things like, “We found you online… not sure where though.”
- Odd, long search terms in your reports: Full-sentence queries like “how much does it cost to move a 4-bedroom house across Dallas” are often coming from AI or voice tools, not traditional search.
- Brand-name leads: New customers ask for you by name, even if you've never advertised to them.
If you’re seeing more of these? AI is already putting you in front of customers—you just didn’t know it.
How to show up in AI search (and not look like a ghost)
You don’t need to be a tech wizard. You just need to look legit. AI is basically a big nerd that likes clean data and clear answers. Here's what it’s looking for:
1. Polish your Google Business Profile
This isn’t optional. It’s your AI résumé.
- Add your service area, hours, and contact info
- Post real photos: crews, trucks, happy customers... not stock junk
- Write descriptions that mention the services and cities you serve
AI eats this stuff up.
2. Stack up the reviews
Reviews aren’t just for humans. They’re fuel for AI.
Movers with...
- 100+ reviews
- 4.5+ stars
- And mentions of specific services and cities
…are 4x more likely to show up in AI results (Source: BrightLocal, 2024)
💡Smart tip: Ask your happy customers to mention what kind of move and where. Like this:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Relocating my business in Fort Worth was stress-free with Wildcat Movers. Their attention to detail and commitment to timelines exceeded my expectations.”
That’s catnip for AI.
3. Answer real questions on your website
AI pulls info from your site, but it skips the fluff. If your homepage sounds like it was written by a committee of buzzwords, rewrite it.
Add an FAQ or blog section that tackles stuff like:
- How much does it cost to move a 3-bedroom house in Houston?
- What’s the best time of year to move in Texas?
- Do movers pack, or do I need to?
Use your actual voice. Plain talk wins.
4. Be everywhere AI looks
AI doesn’t just check your site. It checks:
- Yelp, Angi, Thumbtack
- Moving associations (like AMSA)
- Local directories and news mentions
If your info is inconsistent, or missing entirely, you’re getting passed over.
💡Smart tip: Make sure your business name, phone number, and address are exactly the same everywhere.
5. Ask your web person about schema markup
It’s the most boring-sounding thing on this list, but it's real.
Schema is hidden code that tells AI: “This is a moving company in Nashville that does long-distance moves and has 187 five-star reviews.”
You don’t have to understand it. Just ask your web guy to install LocalBusiness and MovingService schema with review data and service area. It’s like giving AI glasses so it can read your site properly.
Bottom line: Be the obvious choice, not the loudest
You don’t need tricks. You need trust.
While your competitors chase the next SEO gimmick or overpay an agency that says “synergy” too often, you can win with the basics:
- Real reviews
- Clear answers
- Consistent listings
- A site that doesn’t sound like it was written by a robot for a robot
AI search rewards businesses that are obvious picks. The trusted ones. The ones that show up again and again with the answers people want.
Be that company. Own your turf. Don’t just play the game... rig it in your favor.
Quick checklist: AI search for movers
✅ Google Business Profile: Complete, current, and packed with real photos
✅ Reviews: 100+ 5-star reviews that mention services and cities
✅ Website: Answers to real questions in your real voice
✅ Listings: Yelp, Angi, Thumbtack, BBB, AMSA, and local directories
✅ Schema markup: Ask your web person—don’t skip it
✅ Consistency: Same business name and info everywhere
✅ FAQ or blog: Answer what customers are really searching for
Want to win at AI search? Start with your online reputation
Your reviews, listings, and local presence are the backbone of how AI decides who shows up. SmartMoving helps you get it right—automating review requests, keeping your info consistent, and giving you the tools to win Google's stamp of approval.
If you’re serious about showing up (and standing out), let’s talk.
We’ll walk you through how SmartMoving helps movers build a reputation that sells... online and off.
