Questions to Ask a Moving Company Before Booking

Moving is expensive enough without the added stress of a predatory company. You should expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000 for a standard interstate move, but that price fluctuates wildly based on weight, distance, and extra services. Because the industry attracts rogue operators, knowing the right questions to ask a moving company before booking is your best defense against hidden fees and damaged belongings. Getting a quote is easy, but getting an accurate one requires effort on your part. Do not settle for the first number you receive over the phone or via email. You need to treat the hiring process like an interview where you hold all the leverage.

How do I verify a mover is actually legit?

Before you sign any paperwork, you must ensure the company is legally authorized to handle your household goods. Every legitimate interstate mover must possess a USDOT number and an MC number issued by the federal government. If a company cannot provide these or seems hesitant, stop the conversation immediately. You can confirm their status yourself using the verify a mover's license tool. A company might have a professional website and friendly staff, but the database does not lie about their operating authority. Never hire a mover that operates without these credentials, as they likely lack the mandatory insurance required to protect your items during transit.

Why checking credentials matters

Registration is not just paperwork. It signifies that the company has passed federal safety standards for interstate transport. If you hire an unregistered mover, you have little recourse if your furniture arrives damaged or your items go missing entirely.

Ask for proof of insurance

You also need to ask about their specific coverage levels. Most basic liability only covers a tiny fraction of the value of your goods, often as little as 60 cents per pound. Ask the company for documentation of their cargo insurance and consider purchasing additional coverage if you are moving high value items.

Why do moving quotes change after booking?

Companies often provide low estimates to get you in the door, only to inflate the bill once your boxes are already inside their truck. To prevent this bait and switch, you must request a binding estimate. This document locks in the price so you are not surprised by weight adjustments on delivery day.

The visual survey requirement

Avoid any company that refuses to perform a visual survey of your home. A professional mover should either walk through your rooms in person or conduct a thorough video call to see exactly what needs to be moved. If they refuse, they are guessing, and those guesses are almost always designed to favor the company at your expense.

What to check in the paperwork

Review the estimate for specific charges related to stairs, long carries, or elevator usage. If you live on the third floor and the company fails to note it, they might charge you a surprise fee on moving day. Use our try our moving cost calculator to see if their quote aligns with current market averages.

What should a mover provide by law?

Federal regulations exist to protect you, but many movers hope you never find out about them. Before your move starts, an interstate mover is required by law to give you copies of two specific FMCSA publications. These are titled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move.

Where to file a complaint

If a company acts aggressively, refuses to provide these documents, or holds your items hostage for more money, you have a formal way to fight back. You can file a complaint about a moving company for free through the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database. This system tracks patterns of bad behavior and helps regulators identify bad actors.

Never sign a blank document or a contract that includes empty spaces, as these can be filled in later with charges you never agreed to pay.

Watch for red flags

If they demand a large cash deposit upfront, that is a warning sign. Most reputable companies collect payment upon delivery or through a standardized invoicing process. Always be skeptical of any mover that pressures you to decide quickly.

How do I manage the move on the big day?

Preparation is your best strategy. You should know exactly who will be handling your belongings and what happens if things go wrong. Ask about their claim process for damaged items before you sign a contract.

Communication is key

Ask the representative what happens if the truck is delayed. Weather and mechanical issues occur, but a professional company will have a clear policy on how they communicate delays and when they offer compensation. If they say they never have delays, they are lying.

Final verification steps

Before the crew leaves your property, perform a final walkthrough of every closet, drawer, and corner of the attic. Check your inventory list against the items being loaded onto the truck. If you want to dive deeper into specific costs, feel free to browse more cost guides to help you compare estimates from different companies.