Key Questions to Ask a Moving Company Before Hiring

Company Credentials



• Licensed and Insured: Ensure the company is accredited by the relevant authorities, such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and has a valid U.S. DOT # and MC #.
• Professional Affiliations: Check if they are affiliated with professional organizations, enhancing their credibility.

Company's Track Record

• Business History: A company with a long and clean history is often more reliable.
• Employee Vetting: Ensure the company performs background checks on their employees, ensuring safety and professionalism.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Moving Company

Hiring a moving company can offer numerous benefits, making relocating much smoother and less stressful. Here are some of the key advantages of hiring a professional moving company:

1. Efficiency: Professional movers are experienced and efficient in packing, loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings. They have the necessary skills and equipment to handle the entire process swiftly and safely.
2. Reliability: Reputable moving companies are known for their reliability. They will provide and stick to a schedule, ensuring your move is completed on time. This reliability can be crucial, especially if you have a tight timeline for your move.
3. Safety: Professional movers are trained to handle your items carefully. They use proper packing techniques and materials to protect your belongings during transit. This significantly reduces the risk of damage or breakage.
4. Less Physical Strain: Moving can be physically demanding, and lifting heavy furniture and boxes can lead to injuries. Hiring movers means avoiding moving heavy items' physical strain and potential injuries.
5. Specialized Equipment: Moving companies can access specialized equipment, such as dollies, ramps, and hoisting systems, simplifying moving large or heavy items.
6. Insurance Coverage: Most reputable moving companies cover your belongings during the move. You may be eligible for compensation if any of your items are damaged or lost during the relocation.
7. Cost-Effective: While it may seem like an added expense, hiring a moving company can be cost-effective in the long run. When you factor in the time, effort, and potential damage that can occur during a DIY move, the cost of hiring professionals can be well worth it.
8. Stress Reduction: Moving can be a stressful experience, and professional movers can help alleviate much of that stress. Knowing that experienced professionals are handling the logistics and heavy lifting can give you peace of mind.
9. Storage Options: Many moving companies offer storage solutions if you need to temporarily store your belongings before moving them to your new home. This can be especially useful if there's a gap between your move-out and move-in dates.
10. Customized Services: Moving companies can tailor their services to your needs. Whether you need a full-service move, where they handle everything from packing to unpacking, or just assistance with loading and unloading, you can choose the level of service that suits you.
11. Time-Saving: Hiring professionals can save you significant time. They can complete the move much faster than if you were to do it yourself, allowing you to focus on other essential aspects of your relocation.
12. Local Knowledge: If you're moving to a new area, local moving companies often have valuable knowledge about the community and can provide helpful information about your new neighborhood.

Financial Aspects of Hiring Movers

Estimating the Moving Cost

• Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates: Understand the difference and insist on a binding quote or a not-to-exceed estimate to avoid hidden fees.
• Cost Factors: The cost is usually determined by weight, distance, and additional services.

Hidden Fees and Surcharges

• Extra Charges: Inquire about additional fees for packing, storage, and shipment tracking services.
• Avoiding Scams: A transparent, detailed quote can help avoid moving scams.

Services Offered by Moving Companies

Packing and Unpacking Services

• Professional Packing: Some companies offer packing services, ensuring the safety of your belongings.
• Packing Supplies: Ask if the company provides necessary packing supplies and if there are any packing requirements.

Specialty Moving Services

• Handling Unique Items: Inquire about the company's experience with specialty items like pianos and artwork.
• Custom Crating Services: Some companies offer custom crating for delicate items like televisions and antiques.

Ensuring the Safety of Your Belongings

Liability and Insurance Coverage

• Coverage Options: Understand the difference between Full Value Protection (FVP) and Released Value Protection.
• Claims Process: Inquire about the process and timeframe for resolving claims and damages.

Employee and Vehicle Safety

• Background Checks: Ensure the company performs criminal record checks on their employees.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly serviced moving vehicles are less likely to encounter problems.

Logistics and Communication

Tracking and Delivery

• Shipment Tracking: A company offering shipment tracking provides peace of mind.
• Delivery Windows: Understand the guaranteed delivery dates and any associated early or delayed arrival fees.

Pre-move Preparations

• Packing Before Arrival: Know how much packing needs to be done before the movers arrive and any items they won't move.
• Preparation Checklist: A detailed checklist can ensure a smooth moving day.

Customer Feedback and Reputation

Importance of References and Reviews

• Checking Reviews: Online reviews and ratings provide insights into the company's reputation and customer service quality.
• References: A reputable company should willingly offer references.

Company's Social Presence

• Online Presence: A strong presence indicates a company's credibility and transparency.
• Customer Service: Responsive and helpful customer service is crucial, especially when dealing with potential issues.

Cancellation and Rescheduling

• Company Policies: Understand the company's cancellation and rescheduling policies and any associated fees.
• Flexibility: A company's willingness to accommodate changes indicates good customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What are the moving rights and responsibilities when hiring a moving company?
• Q: What are the payment methods accepted by most moving companies?
• Q: How do you avoid moving scams?

Tables and Lists

• Table 1: Comparison of Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection.
• List 1: Checklist for a Successful Move-Out Day.
• List 2: Top Accredited and Licensed Moving Companies.

By asking the right questions and doing thorough research, you can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure that your belongings are in safe hands, whether you are moving locally or across states. Remember the importance of checking references, understanding all costs involved, and verifying the company's license number with the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT).