Moving Preparation

Hiring a moving company can make your relocation much easier — or much more stressful. The key to a smooth, hassle-free move is knowing the right questions to ask before signing a contract. Whether you’re moving across the street or across the country, these 10 questions will help you avoid surprises and hire a reliable, professional mover.

✅ 1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This should be your first question. Reputable moving companies must be licensed and insured.

• For interstate moves, ask for their USDOT number and verify it at FMCSA.gov.
• For local moves, check with your state’s Department of Transportation or consumer protection agency.
  Insurance is also crucial — it protects your belongings in case of damage or loss.

💵 2. What Type of Estimate Will I Receive? (Binding vs. Non-Binding)

There are three common types of estimates:

• Non-binding: Price can change based on actual weight/time
• Binding: Price won’t change unless services change
• Binding Not-to-Exceed: You pay less if your shipment weighs less than estimated

Always clarify which type you’re getting — and get it in writing.

🧾 3. What Services Are Included in the Estimate?

Some companies offer full-service moving (packing, loading, unloading, etc.), while others charge extra for things like:

• Packing materials
• Disassembly of furniture
• Carrying items up/down stairs
• Long-carry fees for difficult access

Know exactly what’s included to avoid surprise fees on moving day.

📦 4. Do You Hire Employees or Use Subcontractors?

You want to know who will actually be handling your belongings.

• In-house crews are usually better trained and more accountable.
• Subcontracted crews can vary in quality and may not follow the company’s standards.

⏱️ 5. How Long Will the Move Take?

Ask for an estimated timeline for:

• Pickup
• Transit
• Delivery

For long-distance moves, make sure you understand delivery windows and how delays are handled.

📋 6. Can You Provide a Written Contract and Inventory List?

A professional moving company should give you:

• A detailed, written contract
• An inventory list of your items (especially for long-distance moves)

This protects both you and the mover if anything is lost or damaged.

🔍 7. What Is Your Cancellation and Refund Policy?

Life happens. Understand the terms if you need to cancel or reschedule.

• Will you lose your deposit?
• Are there any rescheduling fees?

Having clarity upfront will give you peace of mind.

📞 8. Who Do I Contact During the Move?

Ask if you’ll have a dedicated moving coordinator or contact person.
This makes communication easier and helps avoid confusion if issues arise during the move.

🧑‍💼 9. Can You Provide References or Recent Reviews?

Don’t just rely on the company’s website. Look up Google Reviews, BBB ratings, and third-party review platforms.
Better yet, ask for direct references — a reputable company won’t hesitate to connect you with past clients.

🚩 10. What Happens If Something Gets Damaged or Lost?

Accidents happen — but how a company responds makes all the difference.

• What is the claims process?
• Do they offer valuation coverage or full replacement?
• How long does it take to settle a claim?

🏁 Final Thoughts

Moving is a big decision — and hiring the right company is critical to making it go smoothly. By asking these 10 questions before hiring a mover, you’ll protect yourself from unexpected costs, poor service, or worse: a moving scam.

Ready to compare top-rated movers? Check out our moving company reviews to find trusted professionals near you.