6 Questions to Ask When Hiring Movers

Moving to a new location means making many decisions in a short amount of time. Along with selecting the right move date and deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right moving company. The right moving company can make the entire process of moving — from lifting heavy objects to ensuring fragile items are transported safely — a stress-free experience.

It's essential to ask the right questions before hiring a moving company. Asking the right questions can help you feel more confident when hiring movers and take some of the pressure off your decision.

Questions to Ask Moving Companies

Six crucial questions to ask moving companies are:

1. Are You Properly Licensed?

When you hire a licensed mover, you can rest assured they are carefully regulated to provide a minimum level of service. This is because states license companies to handle either intra-state or in-state moves. While unlicensed movers are usually more affordable, they aren't required by law to honor any governmental regulations.

2. Who Will Oversee My Project From Start to Finish?

It is essential to ask who will be on-site overseeing your move from beginning to end. Whether it's the company's "move manager" or a specific individual, it helps to know who will be directly involved in the action. That way, you know who to go to with any concerns or questions.

3. What Do You Consider Extra Services and How Much Do You Charge for Them?

Every moving company has different policies, so make sure you ask any potential movers what they consider "extra." Doing so will allow you to prepare in advance. Ask your movers if any of the following are considered extra services:

• Shuttle services
• Long carry fees
• Storage-in-transit fees
• Fuel charges and warehouse handling
• Packing services
• Flight charges
• Parking issues
• Fees for dismantling furniture pieces
• Extra charges for traveling to and from your house

4. What Happens If Something Is Broken or Missing?

It's crucial to know who you'd contact at the moving company in the case of an accident. Licensed moving companies are required by law to offer a replacement value of $.60 per pound of the damaged item's weight.

Questions to ask moving companies regarding potential broken or missing items include:

• What is the process for filing a claim?
• How long do settlements take?
• What are the options for purchasing additional coverage?
• How long will it take to receive the reimbursement and how is it processed?

5. How Will Items Get Where They Need to Go?

When preparing for a move, you may realize you have a significant number of things that need to be discarded, in addition to packed items and items to donate. Ask your moving company if they will be able to transport some of your things to a donation center, or if they have their own dumpsters.

6. Can You Offer Any Discounts or Promotions?

Some moving companies offer considerable discounts, especially if you are a student or scheduling a move during the off-peak season. Other situations that may warrant discounts include:

• You have few items to relocate
• The age and number of family members involved in the move
• Consolidation policies

How to Hire a Moving Company

When hiring a moving company, there are many steps you can take after asking the right questions to ensure you hire the right team for your move. They are:

• Get a thorough walkthrough
• Don't pay a large deposit
• Stay away from moving companies with a name switch
• Obtain references on movers
• Avoid packing costs
• Never sign a blank contract
• Report any issues
• Be aware of your liability options