10 Questions For Movers

When a moving company contacts you about your upcoming move, you need to be prepared. Here are ten important questions for movers you can ask to be sure things will go right.

1. What is your company name, street address, phone number, and website? What licensing do you have in place and what are your license numbers?

For your convenience, Moving.com provides this data when you complete a request for a moving quote, but it’s worth double checking with the mover to verify all information.

Search for any online reviews for your mover and check out the company website if the mover provided you with a URL. Make sure the address, phone number and company name match with any documents your mover provides you.

2. Do you subcontract your moves?

It’s important to know who will be moving your possessions. Some movers may employ other companies to assist during the course of your move. Confirm the licensing information of any subcontractors that may be involved in your move.

3. What is your estimation process?

Different movers have different processes for providing quotes. Some movers may want to see all your possessions in-person before offering a quote.

For large or long distance moves, we recommend getting an in-home estimate because this usually results in the most accurate quote.

If you do receive an in-home estimate, make sure to inform the estimator about any items that you’re leaving behind and any items that are unusually heavy or bulky.

Be wary of movers offering quotes sight unseen when moving across state lines. Also, if an estimate seems too good to be true, it likely is.

4. What are your moving rates and fees?

Ask about a mover’s basic rates. For shorter moves, you’ll likely be charged per hour. For longer distance moves, the rate will likely be based on weight and distance.

Ask about any additional fees. Common extra charges include going up or down stairs, packing materials, or oversized items.

5. What type of packing services do you offer? What measures do you take to protect my items?

Movers usually offer full or partial packing. Proper packing materials should be used including correctly sized boxes, protective wrap for breakables, and blankets or plastic wrap for furniture.

6. What type of moving insurance do you offer?

Ask your mover to review their insurance options with you. There are two types of common insurance offered by movers.

Released-value protection covers up to 60 cents per pound. This protection is standard and included in moving charges.

Full-value protection covers the value of the entire item damaged, and is based on the customer’s valuation of the goods that are being moved.

You may not need additional insurance if your homeowner’s policy already covers your items during the move.

7. Can you review your dispute settlement program with me?

Every mover has a different dispute settlement program. It’s better to get this information up front than learn about this later should something go wrong.

Make sure you understand the procedures in place in case of lost items, breakage, or other damage that occurs in transit.

8. What is my estimated delivery date?

Determine the moving company’s approximate delivery window. You’ll want to make sure they can deliver your goods on your schedule.

9. How can I contact you during the moving process?

Being able to reach your mover before, during, and after the move is important. Get an e-mail address and phone number for your point of contact.

Contact your mover prior to your move day via e-mail and phone to ensure the contact information provided is correct.

10. Can you supply me with references?

Nothing speaks louder than great references and the best references are repeat customers. Ask your mover for three references of recent customers that have used their services. Contact these references and ask direct questions about their experiences.

Gather information and take notes on all movers that contact you. Make sure all your questions are properly answered. If you feel that a mover is being evasive, politely end the conversation and move on. The process of moving is stressful and you should be comfortable with the company you hire.

For more information, check out the US Dept. of Transportation “Ready to Move Guide” or read the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” publication.