What to Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company: 10 Questions That Matter

Hiring the right moving company can mean the difference between a smooth, stress-free transition and a logistical nightmare. While online reviews and estimates play a part in the decision, the real insights come from the questions you ask before signing a contract.

But most people don’t know what to ask.

Below are ten essential questions that help you separate a professional, transparent mover from one that might leave you regretting your choice. Whether you're planning a local move or relocating across the state, these questions ensure you're fully informed and in control.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This is the first—and most important—question to ask any moving company.

Licensing ensures the company meets state or federal transportation regulations. For interstate moves, they should have a U.S. DOT number. For in-state relocations, licensing is regulated by your state's transportation department.

Equally important is insurance. At a minimum, companies should offer released value protection, which covers items at 60 cents per pound. Some offer full value protection or work with third-party insurance providers for added coverage.

If a mover hesitates when you ask about licenses or insurance, consider it a red flag.

2. Can You Provide a Written Estimate?

Never rely on a verbal quote. A written estimate gives you a breakdown of costs and locks in pricing. Ask whether the estimate is:

Binding: Fixed price unless you change scope

Non-binding: Final cost may change based on weight or tim

Binding Not-to-Exceed: You’ll pay less if the move costs less, but never more

Companies like Tera Moving Services typically provide written estimates after conducting an in-person or virtual walkthrough—an industry best practice.

3. What Services Are Included in the Quote?

Not all quotes are created equal. Some estimates include packing, disassembly, or supplies, while others are strictly for labor and transport.

Ask for a clear list of what’s included:

Packing/unpacking

Disassembly and reassembly

Protective wrapping

Fuel and toll charges

Temporary storage (if applicable)

Clarity now avoids surprise charges later.

4. Are There Any Additional Fees I Should Know About?

Stairs, elevators, long carries from the truck to your door—these can all trigger extra charges. Some companies even charge for delays, oversized items, or weekend moves.

Ask directly about:

Charges for narrow hallways or upper-floor apartments

Special handling fees for pianos, safes, or fragile art

Cancellation or rescheduling penalties

A transparent moving company will outline all potential fees upfront, not tack them on after the fact.

5. Do You Use Employees or Subcontractors?

Some companies handle all moves with in-house teams. Others contract out jobs to third-party labor. Knowing who will actually be in your home matters for quality, accountability, and safety.

With subcontracted teams, quality and communication can vary. If the company uses in-house staff, ask about their hiring and training practices.

Tera Moving Services, for example, ensures that all team members are trained and background-checked—something that gives many clients added peace of mind.

6. What Is Your Cancellation or Rescheduling Policy?

Life is unpredictable. Maybe your closing date changes. Maybe your job start gets delayed. Understanding the company’s policy around cancellations or date changes can save money and frustration.

Look for answers to:

How far in advance must changes be made?

Are there fees for same-week changes?

Is your deposit refundable?

Flexibility can be a major differentiator between companies.

7. How Do You Handle Damaged or Lost Items?

Even with careful movers, accidents happen. The difference is how those accidents are handled.

Ask the company:

What’s the claims process?

Is there a dedicated customer service contact?

How long does it take to process a claim?

Knowing their approach to conflict resolution gives you insight into their customer commitment.

8. Can I See References or Reviews Beyond Your Website?

Most companies have hand-picked reviews on their website. That’s fine—but dig deeper.

Ask for:

Recent clients you can contact

Links to third-party review platforms

Proof of any industry certifications or memberships

Companies with consistent quality service are proud to share feedback—especially from clients with similar moving needs.

9. How Do You Protect Homes During the Move?

Damage to your furniture is one thing. Damage to your home—scratched floors, dinged walls, torn carpet—is another.

Ask how the team will protect:

Door frames and walls

Hardwood floors and staircases

Elevators and hallways in shared buildings

A reputable team comes prepared with blankets, runners, and corner guards. Some even photograph existing conditions before the move begins.

Working with a detail-oriented moving company ensures your belongings—and your home—are both treated with respect.

10. What’s Your Backup Plan if Something Goes Wrong?

No one likes to think about trucks breaking down or movers calling out. But it happens.

A reliable mover will have contingency plans:

Backup vehicles available

Extra team members on call

Clear communication protocols in case of delays

This question shows the company how serious you are—and gives you confidence that they’re equipped to handle surprises.

Final Tips Before You Hire

Once you’ve asked these ten questions, take a moment to reflect:

Did the company answer directly and professionally?

Were they transparent about policies and costs?

Did they make you feel more confident—or more confused?

Even if the pricing is competitive, the attitude, communication style, and clarity of your mover can be just as important as the bottom line.

Tera Moving Services encourages clients to ask every one of these questions—and appreciates when customers are informed. A good mover knows that trust is built before moving day, not during it.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a moving company is more than a transaction—it’s a partnership during one of life’s most stressful transitions. Asking the right questions up front helps protect your belongings, your home, and your peace of mind.

So whether you’re preparing for a cross-town move or a cross-country relocation, don’t rush the hiring process. A few extra minutes spent asking the right questions can save hours—or even days—of stress down the road.

Trust what you hear. Trust how you feel. And choose a company that respects your time, your property, and your questions.