Important Questions to Ask Your Mover

Why ask: The type of trucks a moving company uses can significantly impact the speed, efficiency, and safety of your move. Ramp-style trucks are far superior for professional moving operations compared to lift-gate trucks.

• Speed and Efficiency: Ramps allow movers to quickly walk up and down without waiting for a lift gate to raise or lower. This means fewer delays and faster load and unload times, reducing the total moving hours and ultimately saving you money.
• Improved Safety: With a ramp, movers can maintain momentum by carrying items directly into the truck without the need to repeatedly set them down and lift them back up. This reduces the risk of injuries and damage to your belongings.
• Optimized for Professional Moves: Ramp-equipped trucks are the standard for high-quality moving companies because they are purpose-built for loading and unloading large volumes efficiently. Companies using lift gates are often slower, which can increase your overall moving costs.

When choosing a mover, always ask if they use trucks with professional-grade moving ramps to ensure you’re hiring a team equipped for speed, safety, and efficiency.

Why ask: Reputable movers are licensed and insured. This ensures that your belongings are protected in case of accidents and that the company complies with industry regulations. Be cautious of companies that can't provide proof of insurance or licenses.

Why ask: It’s crucial to know who will actually show up on moving day. Some companies rely on subcontractors—essentially **hired help** or **cash labor**—instead of their own trained employees. These subcontractors are often temporary workers, sometimes hired last minute from sites like **Craigslist**, which can lead to **inconsistent service, lack of professionalism, and higher risks of damage** to your belongings.

By contrast, companies that use their own employees are more likely to deliver **reliable service**. Their movers are trained, insured, and accountable for the job they do. When you choose a company with dedicated employees, you’re choosing **consistency, professionalism, and peace of mind**.

Why ask: If you have valuable or delicate items such as antiques, artwork, or a piano, you need to know how the company plans to protect them. Look for movers with experience and proper equipment for handling specialty items.

Why ask: Life is unpredictable, and sometimes plans change. Understanding the mover's cancellation or rescheduling policy will help you avoid unexpected fees and ensure flexibility when needed.

Why ask: Accidents can happen during a move. It’s important to understand what kind of valuation or insurance options are available, so you can make sure your belongings are adequately covered in case of loss or damage.

Why ask: Understanding the type of estimate provided helps you avoid surprise charges. A binding estimate guarantees the total cost, while a non-binding estimate may change based on actual services and time required.

Why ask: Moving schedules don't always go as planned. It’s important to know how the company handles unexpected delays, bad weather, or logistical challenges to avoid unnecessary stress on moving day.

Why ask: Clear communication is essential for a smooth move. Knowing how the movers will keep you updated—whether through phone, text, or email—helps ensure everyone stays on the same page.

Why ask: Customer feedback is one of the best ways to gauge the reliability and professionalism of a moving company. Look for companies with positive reviews and testimonials that highlight successful moves and satisfied customers.