10 Questions to Ask a Moving Company Before You Sign Anything

Most people hire a moving company without asking nearly enough questions. By the time problems arise — unexpected charges, damaged furniture, missed delivery windows — it's too late. These 10 questions, asked before you sign anything, can save you thousands of dollars and enormous stress.

1. Are You a Licensed Carrier or a Broker?

This is the most important question and most people never ask it. Carriers own their trucks and employ their own drivers. Brokers take your booking and sell your move to a third-party carrier. There is nothing wrong with using a broker — but you need to know upfront. If the company is a broker, ask for the actual carrier's name and verify their FMCSA license separately.

2. What Is Your USDOT Number?

Every legitimate interstate mover must have an active USDOT number. Check it at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. If they can't provide one, or if it comes back inactive, do not hire them.

3. Will My Move Be Handled by Your Employees or Subcontractors?

Ask specifically who will be loading your belongings, who will be driving the truck, and who will be delivering at the destination. Get the answer in writing.

4. Can You Provide a Binding or Not-to-Exceed Estimate?

Always request a binding or not-to-exceed estimate. A binding estimate fixes the price regardless of actual weight. A not-to-exceed estimate means you pay the quoted price or actual cost — whichever is lower. If a mover refuses either option, that's a red flag.

5. What Is the Delivery Window for My Move?

Long distance moves typically have a 3-10 business day delivery window. Ask for the specific window in writing and ask what compensation they provide if delivery falls significantly outside that window.

6. What Additional Fees Could Apply?

Ask specifically about: stair carry fees, long carry fees, elevator fees, shuttle service fees, storage fees if delivery is delayed, fuel surcharges, and weekend or holiday delivery surcharges. Get a complete list in writing before signing.

7. What Valuation Options Do You Offer?

All interstate movers must offer released value protection (free but only $0.60/lb per item) and full value protection (recommended — covers repair or replacement at current market value). Ask about the cost of full value protection and the claims process.

8. Do You Have References from Recent Long Distance Moves?

Ask for references from customers who completed long distance moves in the last 6 months on routes similar to yours. A reputable mover will provide references without hesitation.

9. What Happens if My Belongings Are Damaged?

Ask about the specific claims process before anything goes wrong: how to document damage at delivery, the timeframe for filing a claim, what documentation you'll need, and the typical resolution timeline.

10. What Deposit Is Required and What Is Your Cancellation Policy?

Legitimate movers require a 10-25% deposit. Be very cautious of companies requiring 50%+ or demanding cash only. Ask whether the deposit is refundable, what the cancellation deadline is, and what payment forms are accepted. Never pay the full amount upfront — the balance should be due at delivery.

Use Multiple Quotes to Compare Answers

Ask these questions of multiple movers and compare not just prices but the quality of their answers. How a company responds to direct questions tells you a great deal about how they'll handle your move. MyMovingQuotes connects you with up to 5 FMCSA-licensed movers — get your free quotes in 60 seconds and ask these questions to each one before deciding.