Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company

When it comes to moving, hiring the right company can make or break the experience. From packing up your most valuable possessions to navigating tight driveways or long stairwells, your movers are responsible for more than just lifting boxes—they’re handling your life.

Before you sign a contract or hand over a deposit, ask these key questions to protect yourself, your belongings, and your wallet.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Not All Movers Are Created Equal

While many moving companies appear similar on the surface, their quality, reliability, and professionalism can vary significantly. Some are fully licensed with years of experience, while others may be fly-by-night operations with questionable practices.

Asking the right questions helps you:

• Weed out unqualified or uninsured movers
• Avoid hidden fees or surprise charges
• Ensure your move is smooth, efficient, and stress-free

Protecting Your Belongings and Your Budget

You’re trusting a moving company with your furniture, heirlooms, electronics, and everything in between. If something goes wrong, it could cost you more than just money—it could mean lost memories or weeks of frustration.

Doing a little research up front can:

• Prevent damage or loss
• Give you peace of mind
• Help you compare quotes and services more accurately

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

What to Look For

In California, licensed movers must be registered with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). You can verify their license number (often called a “CAL-T” or “MTR” number) through the CPUC’s website.

In addition to licensing, you should ask whether the company has:

• General liability insurance
• Cargo insurance (covers your belongings during transit)
• Workers’ compensation insurance (in case an employee is injured on your property)

Why It Matters

• If a mover damages your home or belongings, liability insurance helps cover the repair or replacement
• If a worker is injured on-site and the company doesn’t have workers’ comp, you could be held liable
• Licensing helps verify legitimacy, especially in an industry where scams do occur

Pro tip: If a company won’t provide proof of insurance, that’s a red flag.

2. What Services Are Included in the Estimate?

Ask About the Fine Print

Not all moving estimates are created equal. Some include just the basics—transporting boxes from Point A to Point B—while others might offer packing, furniture disassembly, and even storage.

When reviewing a quote, ask:

• Is packing or unpacking included?
• Will you wrap fragile items or disassemble beds and furniture?
• Are there extra fees for stairs, elevators, or long carry distances?
• Do you charge for fuel, tolls, or drive time from the warehouse?

Some companies may also charge for materials (like boxes or shrink wrap), so it’s worth clarifying whether those are part of the package or billed separately.

Why It Matters

Surprise fees on moving day are one of the most common complaints in the industry. A clear, itemized estimate helps you:

• Avoid last-minute upcharges
• Budget more accurately
• Compare quotes from different companies fairly

Pro tip: Ask for a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate to lock in your maximum cost.

3. How Do You Handle Damaged or Lost Items

Understand the Claims Process

Even the best movers sometimes have accidents. That’s why it’s important to know what kind of protection—and recourse—you’ll have.

Ask the moving company:

• What level of liability coverage is included?
  • Most movers include basic coverage (60 cents per pound per item)
  • You can often upgrade to Full Value Protection for a fee
• How long do I have to file a damage claim?
• What does your claims process look like?
  • Is there a dedicated department?
  • How long does it take to resolve claims?

Why It Matters

You’re trusting movers with fragile, expensive, and often irreplaceable items. Knowing your rights and the company’s process gives you leverage if something goes wrong.

Pro tip: Take photos of valuable items before the move, and read the fine print on any waivers you’re asked to sign.

4. Do You Use Full-Time Employees or Subcontractors?

Look for Accountability

Not all moving companies use their own staff. Some outsource jobs to subcontractors or day laborers, which can lead to inconsistent service or lack of training.

When asking this question, consider:

• Are the movers trained, full-time employees of the company?
• Are they background-checked and insured?
• Will the same crew handle your move from start to finish?

Why It Matters

• Full-time staff are more likely to be experienced, reliable, and accountable.
• Subcontractors may not be covered under the company’s insurance policy.
• Continuity of crew = better communication and smoother coordination on moving day.

Pro tip: A reputable company will be proud to tell you their team is in-house and trained.

5. Can You Provide References or Reviews?

Do Your Research

Any professional moving company should have a strong online presence with verified reviews. Don’t rely solely on what they say—check what real customers have experienced.

Ask for:

• Links to Yelp, Google, or Better Business Bureau profiles
• A few recent customer references you can call or email
• Info on how they handle negative reviews or disputes

Why It Matters

Reviews give you insight into:

• Punctuality
• Professionalism
• Communication
• How the company handles issues when something goes wrong

Look beyond the star rating—pay attention to how the company responds to feedback. That says a lot about their values.

Pro tip: If all the reviews sound generic or suspiciously perfect, dig deeper.

6. How Do You Calculate Pricing?

Flat Rate vs. Hourly

Every moving company prices differently, so it’s important to understand exactly how your quote is being calculated.

Ask:

• Do you charge by the hour or offer a flat rate?
• Is there a minimum number of hours?
• Do you round up to the next hour?
• Are travel fees or fuel surcharges included?
• Are gratuities expected, included, or optional?

Why It Matters

• Flat-rate pricing gives you a predictable total—but make sure it includes all services.
• Hourly pricing may sound cheaper upfront, but can balloon if the move takes longer than expected.
• Transparent pricing helps you compare estimates fairly and avoid overpaying.

Pro tip: If you’re being charged hourly, make sure time doesn’t start until movers arrive at your location—not when they leave the warehouse.

7. What’s Your Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy?

Ask Before You Commit

Moving plans can change at the last minute—especially when you’re dealing with closing dates, leases, or weather. That’s why it’s important to understand the company’s flexibility policies.

Ask:

• How much notice do you need to cancel or reschedule?
• Is there a cancellation fee?
• Will I lose my deposit if plans change?

Why It Matters

• You don’t want to be stuck paying for a service you can’t use.
• Some companies allow free rescheduling within a certain window—others charge a fee regardless.
• Knowing the terms helps you plan with less stress and more confidence.

Pro tip: Get all cancellation and refund policies in writing—not just over the phone.

Hiring a moving company is about more than muscle—it’s about trust, transparency, and professionalism. By asking the right questions up front, you can avoid hidden costs, protect your belongings, and enjoy a move that’s as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Whether you’re moving across Redwood City or all the way from Los Gatos to San Francisco, make sure your moving crew is licensed, insured, and ready to deliver a top-tier experience.

Looking for a trusted Bay Area moving company? Joshua’s Moving Packing & Storage has helped thousands of families and businesses move with confidence. Contact us today for a free quote and let our trained professionals handle the heavy lifting.