Questions to Ask When Selecting A Moving Company
There are important questions to ask when you are choosing the best moving company for you.
Choosing the right moving company can make a significant difference in your relocation experience. With countless options available, it’s essential to ensure that the company you select is reliable, legitimate, and capable of meeting your specific needs.
With over 40 years of experience, Ace Relocation knows all of the ins and outs of how a move should go. In this blog post, we’ll share the crucial questions you should ask any moving company before entrusting them with your precious belongings. These questions will not only help you verify the company’s credibility but also provide peace of mind during your moving process.
Are you licensed and insured?
- Why ask: To verify the company’s legitimacy and ensure they comply with legal requirements. Licensing and insurance protect your belongings and provide recourse in case of damage or loss.
Can you provide references or reviews from past clients?
- Why ask: To gauge the company’s reputation and the satisfaction of their previous customers. Positive references indicate reliability and good service.
What is your USDOT number?
- Why ask: The U.S. Department of Transportation number is essential for interstate movers. You can use this number to check the company’s registration and complaint history.
Do you offer binding estimates and can you explain your pricing structure?
- Why ask: To understand how the company calculates costs and to avoid unexpected charges. A binding estimate guarantees the final price, provided there are no changes to the move’s scope.
What services are included in the estimate, and are there any additional fees?
- Why ask: To clarify what the estimate covers (e.g., packing, unpacking, storage) and identify any potential extra costs for services like handling bulky items or navigating stairs.
Are you a moving company or a Broker?
- Why ask: To clarify if they will be the ones moving your items or if they’re hiring a moving company to move your belongings.
How do you handle claims and disputes?
- Why ask: To understand the company’s process for addressing and resolving issues related to damage, loss, or service dissatisfaction. A transparent claims process indicates professionalism.
Can you provide a detailed written estimate?
- Why ask: To ensure all terms and conditions are clearly outlined and agreed upon in writing, protecting both parties and reducing the risk of misunderstandings.
What measures do you take to protect furniture and belongings during the move?
- Why ask: To assess the company’s commitment to safeguarding your possessions through proper packing, handling, and transportation methods.
Do you have experience with moves similar to mine?
- Why ask: To confirm the company’s expertise in handling moves that match your specific requirements, whether it’s a long-distance move, an international relocation, or moving valuable or delicate items.
What is your policy on delays or rescheduling, and how do you handle cancellations?
- Why ask: To understand the company’s flexibility and policies regarding unexpected changes to the moving schedule, including any potential penalties for cancellations or rescheduling.
What technology do you use to provide accurate estimates?
- Why ask: To understand if they use advanced tools or software to assess moving costs accurately, which can help in avoiding unexpected charges.
Do you offer virtual surveys for moving estimates?
- Why ask: To determine if they can conduct remote assessments of your belongings using video calls, which can be more convenient and time-saving.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
- Why ask: Moving companies do not typically ask for a deposit, so be aware of scammers and do extra research if they’re asking for money upfront.
How do you track and manage inventory during the move?
- Why ask: To ensure they use modern inventory management systems that can help keep track of your items and minimize the risk of loss or damage.
What communication tools do you use to keep clients updated during the move?
- Why ask: To know if they use apps, SMS, or email notifications to keep you informed about the status of your move and any important updates.
Do you use any technology to ensure the safety and security of my belongings?
- Why ask: To find out if they employ tech solutions like GPS tracking, surveillance, or advanced packing materials to protect your items during transit.
How do you handle payments and estimates? Is there an online system?
- Why ask: To see if they offer digital estimates and secure online payment options, which can simplify the transaction process and enhance security.
Do you offer any mobile apps or customer portals for managing the move?
- Why ask: To check if they provide dedicated apps or online portals where you can manage your move details, make payments, and communicate with the moving company.
Selecting a moving company is a critical step in ensuring a successful and stress-free relocation. By asking these essential questions, you can confidently assess the legitimacy, reliability, and suitability of a moving company for your specific needs.
Still curious about how to find the best moving company for your needs? We’re here to help.
