Moving to a new home marks a major transition, but it often comes with a long checklist and tight deadlines. Hiring a moving company can take some of the pressure off, but only if you know what to look for and what to ask before signing any contracts. Whether you're relocating across town or heading to a new state, your choice of movers can make or break the experience.

According to the NY Post, a nationwide survey revealed that nearly all Americans, about 97%, have moved at least once in their lives. Yet many of those moves are filled with unexpected costs or last-minute issues that could have been avoided with better planning. To help simplify your search, here are some important questions to ask before hiring a moving company.

Experience

Experience speaks volumes when it comes to moving services. Asking how long a company has been operating can give you a sense of their reliability and ability to handle a range of situations. A firm with a long-standing presence is more likely to understand the logistics involved and adapt to challenges along the way.

When speaking with potential movers, find out how many years they've been in business and whether they frequently handle moves similar to yours. This can be especially useful if you have unique items such as antiques, large furniture, or delicate electronics. While every move is different, companies with a strong track record often have more refined processes that can help your move go smoothly. A well-established mover may also have relationships with other service providers that can make your transition more seamless.

Licensing

Not all moving services are equal, and licensing is one of the clearest indicators of legitimacy. Professional movers should be able to show that they are properly registered and authorized to operate, whether the move is local or long-distance. This kind of documentation helps verify that the company follows applicable regulations and safety standards.

Before booking, ask if the mover has the proper licensing or registration. You can also verify that their credentials are current by checking with relevant authorities or business directories. While licensing doesn’t guarantee quality, it does provide a level of accountability that unlicensed movers often lack. Taking this step can help protect your move from unexpected issues.

Insurance

Moving always carries some risk, whether it’s a chipped coffee table, a scratched surface, or a misplaced box. Because of this, understanding the insurance options your moving company offers is an important part of the decision-making process. Insurance coverage can vary widely between companies, so it’s helpful to ask what kinds of protection are available for your belongings during the move.

Find out what types of coverage the company provides and how claims are handled if something is damaged or lost. It’s important to understand what is included in the coverage, what may be excluded, and whether additional insurance options are available if you want more comprehensive protection. Make sure to ask about how reimbursement works, what documentation you’ll need to provide for a claim, and the typical timeline for resolving any issues.

Estimates

A clear and accurate estimate is essential when comparing moving companies. Pricing can vary based on factors like time, distance, or the amount of belongings being moved. Understanding how your estimate is calculated can help you avoid unexpected costs on moving day. Without clear pricing details upfront, even a well-planned move can quickly go over budget.

Ask the company to explain how they provide estimates and request a written copy if possible. This helps you understand what factors might affect the final cost. Having the estimate in writing promotes transparency and gives you a reference to consult if any pricing questions come up later. If a mover is unwilling to provide a clear estimate, that may be a warning sign worth considering.

References

Customer feedback can reveal a lot about how a company operates day-to-day. While websites and advertisements may showcase the highlights, references and reviews often paint a fuller picture. Previous clients can share their experiences with punctuality, care, communication, and overall satisfaction.

Ask whether they can provide recent customer references or guide you to credible online reviews. You can also check third-party sources for complaints or consistent issues. The goal isn't perfection, it’s identifying patterns in service quality that help you make a more confident choice. Positive word of mouth can go a long way in reassuring you about your decision.

Availability

Timing matters, especially when you're juggling lease dates, work schedules, or school start times. Not every moving company has open availability during your preferred window, especially during busy seasons like summer or the end of the month. Getting clarity on their calendar early on helps you plan effectively.

It helps to ask whether they’re available on your desired moving date and what their cancellation or rescheduling policies are. These questions help you avoid last-minute stress and allow you to move forward with confidence. It also helps to find out how far in advance you need to book, especially if you're moving during peak times. Flexibility in scheduling can also be a sign of good customer service.

Equipment

Having the right tools and vehicles for the job makes a big difference in efficiency and safety. While you don’t need to know every technical detail, it’s reasonable to ask about the kind of equipment the company uses. This includes trucks, dollies, and even specialty tools for heavy or fragile items. Knowing they have the proper equipment can give you confidence that your belongings will be handled carefully and professionally.

Confirm whether they provide their own equipment and supplies, and whether your belongings will be moved separately or combined with others. These questions can affect not only how long the move takes but also how secure your items are during transit. Companies that are upfront about their resources tend to be better prepared. Asking about equipment can also highlight whether your belongings will be handled with the right level of care.

Pricing

Understanding how pricing is calculated is an important part of planning your move and managing your budget effectively. Since pricing methods can vary, it’s helpful to get a clear explanation from the moving company about how they determine their rates. This can help you avoid unexpected costs and make sure you’re comparing estimates fairly.

Ask the company to explain their pricing structure and whether there are any additional fees or charges you should anticipate. This might include extra costs for special services, additional stops, or other factors that could affect the total price. The more information you gather upfront, the easier it will be to make an informed decision.

 

Finding the right moving company doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require thoughtful questions and careful comparison. With so many Americans having moved at least once in their lives, it’s clear that relocation is a common part of life, and being prepared can make it far less stressful. If you're getting ready to move, take time to ask these key questions and choose a mover that aligns with your priorities. Muscled Up Movers is here to help you start your next chapter with peace of mind and well-informed support. Reach out today to learn how we can support your move from beginning to end.