9 Questions to Ask Your Moving Company

Before you move, be sure to thoroughly vet your movers so there are no surprises, before, during or after moving day.

It is the responsibility of the customer (that’s you) to learn specifics about the moving company, their movers, as well as policies and procedures.

Let’s take a look at nine questions to ask your moving company before signing the dotted line.

1. Can I have an estimate?

According to the North Carolina Utilities Commission, moves that are 35 miles and less are charged an hourly rate. Moves over 35 miles are charged based on the weight of the shipment and the miles between origin and destination. Beware of companies that provide quotes according to cubic feet. The rate should be based on weight and distance or time only. Or, they can provide a rate based on the amount of time that it will take to complete the move.

Find out if the estimate provided is binding. Many Moving Companies will provide non-binding quotes until they can actually look at the belongings that need to be moved in person. A legitimate moving company should always provide a quote in person. If a quote is binding, then they must provide you an itemized list of charges for things that were not included in the quote. Most will then provide a quote that won’t be exceeded no matter how long the move takes or how difficult it becomes.

2. Are there any added fees?

Some Moving Companies will charge more for certain items and for destinations that lack easy access points. They may have a truck rental fee, transfer fee, travel fees, or other fees not spelled out on an estimate.

3. Is there a deposit and how much is it?

Find out if a deposit is required and how much it is. You should also ask if the deposit is refundable. Be sure to get everything in writing and keep a copy for your records.

4. Can I have a copy of all estimates and contracts?

Be sure you keep a copy of any documents you sign during your moving process as they may be needed for filing claims later on and never sign a blank document.

5. Is your Moving Company properly licensed?

All moving companies operating in North Carolina are regulated by the North Carolina Utilities Commission. They put out a PDF that lists all of the moving companies that are legally allowed to operate in the state. You can get your own copy here. And you’ll find us, Few Moves LLC, on page 3.

6. What insurance policies does your Moving Company have?

And what does it cover? A reputable Moving Company should take the time to explain their insurance coverage, how it protects you, and how you can file a claim, if the need arises. The harder it is to get these answers, the harder it will be to use the insurance when it’s needed.

7. Do you have any online reviews from past customers?

Take the time to see if they have positive reviews on sites like Google, Facebook, Yelp!, and Angie’s List. It’s good practice to look for complaints with the Better Business Bureau that may indicate they are not a trustworthy Moving Company.

8. Can I speak with someone who has used your Moving Company before?

You can’t always trust online reviews, so don’t be afraid to ask for a personal reference from someone that has used the moving company in the past 6 months.

9. Does your Moving Company hire day laborers?

You also want to know who is going to be moving your belongings. Will it be a trained professional or somebody they have just hired for the day. Ask if their moves have undergone training and background checks before hiring a Moving Company. You can view our movers right on our website.

At Few Moves Moving Company, we’d love to talk to you about your moving needs. We’re licensed, insured, and have an incredible team of highly trained professional movers. We also have the most fair rates in the business. No hidden fees!

Call us and tell us about your move at (910) 512-6999 or request your free estimate!