Top 10 Questions For Movers

These questions for movers should be an essential part of the interview process when you plan on hiring a company to transport your belongings.

Top 10 Questions for Movers

1. How long have you been in business? There are movers who've been around for decades and movers who set up shop and conduct business on the cheap. Although a cut rate operation isn't necessarily an inferior choice, it pays to get as much info as you can going in. Experience and a community presence is a plus in most businesses, so be forewarned.


2. Can you provide an in-house estimate with a cap? Movers are typically glad to come out and give you an estimate, but that's where you can start getting into tricky territory. They'll usually offer a couple of options: Locking in the payment in the amount of the estimate. An estimate with the final due coming in at an amount within a certain percentage of the estimated figure, say 10 percent or so (over or under) based on the actual weight and distance of the move. If you take the risk, you could save a few dollars -- or pay a little more than the estimate. A mover may make an estimate with no cap on the final fee but will try to reassure you that he's pretty accurate in his estimated calculations. Go with movers who offer a binding agreement that locks in the price or provides a cap on how much they can charge you.


3. If I call the Better Business Bureau, what will they say about you? If the sales agent starts blustering or stuttering, take a pass. Most moving companies are reliable, established businesses, but there are a few bad apples out there. The good news is that the stinkers will have a trail of unhappy customers standing in line to tell their tales of woe. After you ask the question, do the follow-up by contacting your local watchdog agencies to verify the information they've given you.


4. Are your people bonded or insured? You'd think this is a given, but that's not always true. Before you sign a contract, make sure you're dealing with a company whose employees are fully insured and bonded.


5. How do you handle temporary storage? For long moves, some movers provide up to a month's free storage. Other companies charge for the service. Shopping your moving transaction is the best way to get a good bargain, but be sure you know what's included. If you end up having to pay high storage fees, your great bargain could turn into a pricey disaster.


6. Can I speak to a couple of your previous customers? You may never have to actually pick up the phone and call a mover's customer list, but asking the question will give you an idea of how confident the company is about their client list. Movers don't typically have a lot of repeat business for residential clients, so the only real leverage you have is before you sign on the dotted line. The more you can do to verify that they're customer oriented, the better off you'll be.


7. Do I get a discount for booking early? Movers have a busy season like lots of businesses. If you have the luxury of booking your move early, you may be able to score some good discounts.


8. How am I protected if I pack items myself? Movers usually accept little or no responsibility for damage to goods you pack on your own. If you do plan on packing things yourself, or are considering it, understand clearly a mover's policy about damage claims.


9. Is there a cancellation penalty? The advantage of booking early could be offset by a strict cancellation penalty.


10. How can I arrange for payment? You may be able to charge the whole move to your credit card or may have to come up with part of the money in cash. Check with the mover to determine which method they'll accept.

A few well thought out questions for potential movers will help you get the best bargain, ease your mind about the quality and integrity of the business you plan on dealing with, and give you a clearer idea of what you can expect from the moving process.