5 Questions to Ask a Potential Moving Company

If you are searching for a moving company, you have probably scoured the web and read countless customer reviews. Well done! Doing your research is an important step in finding a moving company that is right for you.

After you find your top three candidates, ask each moving company questions that will help you spot red flags and determine which company will earn the right to move your belongings.

Begin by asking these five questions.

Important Questions to Ask a Moving Company

1. Can you give me an in-home, written estimate?

The moving company should be willing to send a representative to your home. The representative should provide you with a written estimate of moving costs and time. If the moving company is unwilling to conduct a moving inspection and provide a written estimate, that is a red flag. Continue searching for a reputable company.

2. Are you insured? What kind of insurance do you have?

The company should be willing to provide you their insurance information. They should be able to tell you what kind of insurance the company has, what the insurance covers, and any limitations of the coverage. If a moving company does not have insurance, it is unlikely they will we able to cover any loses or damages that may happen during your move.

3. How many movers will you send for this job?

Evaluate the moving company’s manpower and planning. The moving company representative should be able to tell you how many people it will take to move your belongings. An experienced representative can estimate how many people it will take to complete your moving job. The representative may also be able tell you who usually works on the day you are planning to move. If the representative cannot give you a clear answer, it is possible they do not know the company’s schedule or how many people are on staff.

4. Who do I contact if I have questions, or if there are problems, the day of the move?

The moving company should provide you with the contact information of someone who will be available on the day of your move. There should be a manager, representative, or office staff member available to take your call during your move. If you encounter a problem, first, try to resolve the problem with the moving crew leader or foreman. If you are unable to resolve the problem with the crew, someone in a managerial position should be able to help you.

5. Are your movers full-time employees?

Given that moving companies often hire part-time or temporary employees during the peak of moving season, this question is optional. However, if you can determine the moving company’s composition of full-time employees, part-time employees, and independent contractors, you may be able to ascertain the reliability of the moving crew. Compared to a company that randomly (and temporarily) hires anyone who is available, a company with steady staff may have a more dependable moving crew. The moving company’s response regarding their employees provides insight into the company’s hiring practices and how they select their moving crew. Established moving companies usually have full-time and part-time employees who have worked with them for years.

Finding a good moving company doesn’t have to be difficult. Do your research and ask as many questions as necessary before making a decision.

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