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11 Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring Movers

Are you planning a move soon?

If so, you’ll want to start the moving process as soon as possible to complete everything within your moving time frame. While moving services can help you get the most out of your moving day and reduce stress, finding a good service isn’t always easy.

Many moving companies are out there, each emphasizing different features and prices. Take the time to learn about each company or service provider you’re considering to choose the one that works best for you.

What you need to ask the moving company depends on your needs. Here are some questions to ask when hiring movers.

1. Are the Movers Licensed and Insured?

Before hiring movers, ask key questions, such as whether the company is licensed and insured. These are essential factors to consider when entrusting your belongings to someone else.

A licensed company is regulated by the state and must adhere to certain standards. An insured company is protected financially in case of damages or accidents.

By ensuring that the company you hire is both licensed and insured, you can have peace of mind knowing that your belongings are in good hands.

2. Do You Have Any Restrictions?

One of the most important questions is whether or not they have any restrictions. This is important because it will help determine if they can accommodate your needs.

For example, if you have a lot of large furniture, you will want to ensure that the movers you hire can handle it.

Another question you should ask is how much notice they need to schedule a move. This will help you ensure that you can give them enough time to do a good job. This will help you budget for the move and ensure you get a good deal.

3. How Much Will the Hiring Movers Cost?

Before hiring a moving company, be sure to ask about the cost of the move. Get an estimate in writing and ask if there are any hidden fees. Find out if the company charges by the hour or by the load. Ask if there are any discounts for military families or seniors. 

Pricing Structure

It is also important to know the pricing structure of a moving company before hiring them. There are generally three pricing structures: hourly, flat rate, and per pound.

Hourly pricing is exactly what it sounds like. You are charged an hourly rate for the time the movers are working. Flat-rate pricing is a set price for the entire job, no matter how long it takes. Per-pound pricing is based on the weight of your belongings.

Knowing the pricing structure will help you better understand the move’s cost and choose the company that is best for you.

Hidden Fees

It’s always a good idea to ask potential movers about hidden fees before hiring them. Some companies may charge extra for stairs, elevators, long-distance moves, or even wrapping and protecting your furniture.

It’s important to get a full estimate from the company so that you know exactly how much the move will cost. Be sure to ask about any other fees that may apply so that you can budget accordingly.

Payment Method

Some companies only accept cash or checks, while others may also accept credit cards.

If you plan on using a credit card, ask about any additional fees that may apply. Also, ask about discounts available if you pay in cash or sign a long-term storage contract.

4. Do You Have the Necessary Equipment?

It’s important to ask professional movers if they have the necessary equipment to handle your move. This includes things like furniture, dollies, blankets, and straps. Without the proper equipment, your belongings could be damaged during the move.

Make sure to ask about the equipment the movers will be using. Find out if they have furniture, dollies, blankets, and straps. These items are essential for protecting your belongings during the move. If the movers don’t have the proper equipment, your belongings could be damaged.

5. What Is the Company’s Policy on Damaged or Lost Items?

When hiring a company to move your belongings, it is important to ask about the company’s damaged or lost items policy. This way, you will know what to expect if something goes wrong during the move.

Some companies may offer insurance for your belongings, while others may not. Ask about the company’s policy before hiring them to move your belongings.

6. Do They Offer Shipment Tracking?

Shipment tracking is an important service that movers should offer to give you peace of mind during your move. You should be able to track your shipment from the moment it leaves your home until it arrives at your new home. This way, you can be sure that your belongings are safe and sound and will arrive when they are supposed to.

Shipment tracking is an important service that movers should offer to give you peace of mind during your move. You should be able to track your shipment from the moment it leaves your home until it arrives at your new home. This way, you can be sure that your belongings are safe and sound and will arrive when they are supposed to.

Before hiring movers, be sure to ask if they offer shipment tracking. This service ensures that your belongings arrive safely and on time.

7. Will My Items Be Transferred to Another Party Along the Way?

Before hiring a moving company, you must ask a few key questions to ensure that you will not transfer your belongings to another party along the way. Some companies may use a third-party company to transport your belongings, which could lead to your items being mishandled or lost.

Be sure to ask if the company uses any third-party companies for transportation, and if so, how often they use them and what the process is for ensuring that your belongings are safe.

8. What Is Their Customer Satisfaction Rating?

One key question to ask is what their customer satisfaction rating is. A company with a high customer satisfaction rating is more likely to provide a good experience than one with a lower rating.

Additionally, you can ask friends or family members who have recently moved for recommendations. Only after your research should you decide which company to hire.

9. What Are The Policies Of The Company?

One of the most important questions to ask is what the company’s policies are. Here are some of the policies that you should know:

Cancellation Policy

It’s important to know the cancellation policy for your move before hiring movers. Otherwise, you could be stuck paying for a service you don’t end up using.

Most reputable movers will have a fair cancellation policy that allows for some flexibility. However, it’s still important to read the policy carefully and ask any questions you have before hiring movers. That way, you can be sure you understand the policy and won’t be left with any surprises.

Refund Policy

You should also ask about the company’s refund policy. This is important because if something goes wrong with the move, you want to be sure you can get your money back.

There are a lot of different moving companies out there, and not all of them have the same refund policy. Some companies may only give you a partial refund, while others may not give you any refund at all.

Be sure to ask about the refund policy before hiring a company so that you know what to expect if something goes wrong.

Insurance Policy

Before hiring movers, be sure to ask about their insurance policy. This will ensure that your belongings are protected in case of any accidents during the move. Be sure to get a detailed description of the coverage, including what is and is not covered.

Also, find out what the deductible is and if there are any limits on the amount of coverage. By asking these key questions, you can be sure that your belongings are protected in case of any unforeseen events.

10. Do You Have References?

There are many key questions you should ask movers before hiring them. Still, one of the most important is whether or not they have references.

Checking references is a great way to understand what others have thought of the company’s services. Knowing that you’re dealing with a reputable business can also give you peace of mind.

Be sure to ask for at least three references, and don’t hesitate to contact them to ask about their experience.

11. What Services Do They Offer? 

Find out what kind of moving services they offer. Do they provide full-service moving, meaning they’ll pack, load, and transport your belongings for you? Or are they just labor-only services, meaning you’ll have to pack and load yourself?

Depending on your needs and budget, Big Lake Movers may be better for you than the other moving companies. 

Plan A Safe Move!

Use these key questions as a guide when interviewing different moving companies. By asking the right questions, you can evaluate each company and decide which is the best fit for your needs.

Don’t forget to get estimates from several companies before making a final decision. And be sure to read the fine print in the contract so you know exactly what you’re paying for. If you’re still unsure about hiring movers, ask your friends and family for recommendations.

If you found these moving tips helpful, browse the rest of our blog for more relevant information.