Sometimes in life, you simply need to know the right questions to ask in order to find the answers you need. We guide you with ten of the most important questions we think you should ask before locking down movers and give you the “why” behind them.
1. What types of moving services do you offer, are they customizable, and how do they meet my needs?
This three-for-one question will help you fit things to your real needs. Not all moving companies offer the same services. Some specialize in local moving, while others focus on long-distance or mostly do cross-country work.
Understanding the company’s services is important to ensure they match your needs and have experience in this realm. You will want to know if they offer packing services and storage or agree to take fragile or high-value items if these are services you need.
Why it matters: By asking this question, you’re ensuring the company is going to meet all aspects of your needs. A company that provides customized service packages means ad you won’t need to hire multiple vendors for different tasks making your life simpler.
2. What is your pricing structure, and are there any additional hidden fees I should know?
Understanding the company’s pricing and the way it works is key to avoid any nasty surprises. Some companies do flat rates, others charge by the hour or based on weight and distance or number of laborers.
Ask if there is extra charges and if so how much for stairs, long carries, or disassembly and reassembly of furniture. Ask if there are any additional fees for fuel surcharges over how many miles, packing materials, or insurance add-ons.
Why it matters: Being clear on pricing structure helps you avoid unexpected costs and plan your budget. It gives you an idea of the company’s transparency upfront too so it is a win-win.
3. What insurance is included, and what will I need to add payment for?
Life happens, and insurance covers it. Moving involves a lot of heavy lifting, and accidents happen. It’s important to know if the moving company offers insurance in case of damage or loss to your things during transit. (If they are reputable, they should!).
Ask about the types of insurance coverage they offer. Is it just basic liability and then you need to purchase full value protection, what is covered under each, and at what rate?
Why it matters: Knowing about insurance gives you protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your things. It gives you peace of mind for a low price.
4. How do you handle items that are fragile or large and awkward?
Some items need extra care and TLC during the move. Antiques, pianos, fragile glass shelves, and large appliances are what we mean. Ask the company how they handle these items, whether they have special equipment, or if they offer custom packing services for delicate items. Also, ask if there are any extra charges.
Why it matters: This question verifies they have proper experience and equipment to handle your valuable items. This should be a given if the company has experience.
5. How will you make sure my move stays on schedule?
Time is money, so ask about the company’s timing and availability. How long do they think your move will take? Do they have the availability for your moving date? If it’s a long-distance move, ask about their delivery timelines.
Why it matters: Knowing the timeline helps you coordinate all your logistics. A company with a clear schedule and plans for delays shows professionalism.
6. Can you provide references from past clients?
A legit moving company should be able to provide references as well as direct you to reviews from past customers.If you have the opportunity, contact a few past clients to hear about their experience and ask for the real dirt on what happened.
Why it matters: Client reviews and references give you insight into the company’s reliability, customer service, and quality of work. You can see ther eal human side behind the company.
7. Do you have the official licenses and credentials to operate?
It’s essential to check if the moving company is licensed and insured to operate legally in your state or for long-distance moves. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration gives licenses for interstate moves, an local movers need to be licensed and insured. Ask for their license numbers and check that they’re legitimate.
Why it matters: Hiring a licensed moving company means they meet the industry standards and are legally ok to move your things. If there are any issues with your move you will have a fallback.
8. How do you handle delays or changes in plans during the move?
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Life happens. Ask the moving company how they handle situations where there are delays, weather issues, or last-minute changes in the schedule from your side. Ask if there are penalties for changes made on short notice from your end and if so how much.
Why it matters: Moving can be unpredictable, and this question helps you understand that the company is prepared for the unexpected. Knowing their flexibility helps you manage your expectations and stay calm during potential issues. You want to know the rate to reschedule just in case you are sick or something out of your control occurs.
9. Do you offer packing services?
Packing is a key part of any move, and many moving companies offer full VIP packing services to help protect your things and speed up the process. Ask if they can pack for you and if so at what price, what types of materials they use, and how they handle fragile items. Do they offer customized packing for electronics, artwork, or fragile things? Do they supply moving boxes and if so, at what rate?
Why it matters: Having professionals handle the packing for you can save you time and stress if you can afford it. If you’re packing yourself, knowing what supplies they offer will help you too.
10. What happens if something gets damaged or goes missing during the move?
Accidents can happen, but planning ahead keeps you in the cool. It’s essential to ask the company about their damage claim process. How do they handle situations where items are damaged or lost? What’s covered under their insurance, and how do you file a claim? How long until you see action taken? Ask about their tracking system to ensure that all your things are accounted for during the move too.
Why it matters: This question helps you understand the company’s accountability and how transparent and professional it is in handling problems.
Wrap It Up
Asking the right questions before hiring a moving company is the key to hiring the right movers for your exact needs. We hope these ten questions will help you get information about a moving company’s services and professionalism before you make your call and helps you in the vetting process.
Take your time when choosing potential movers to get the top of the top that meets your budget, timeline, and needs. Pricing Van Lines would be proud to be one of your trusted options no matter what type of move you are planning or where you want to go. Let’s move together!
