7 Critical Questions to Ask Moving Companies in 2025 (Avoid Scams)

Asking the right questions can make all the difference when speaking with moving companies. Many people fall into traps like hidden fees, unreliable crews, or uninsured services simply because they don’t take the time to do proper research.

From what we've seen, working directly with a carrier that uses its own trained staff often leads to a more reliable experience than going through a broker, even if the broker offers a lower quote. Knowing how to tell the difference is key, and the right questions can help you do that.

After helping countless people navigate their moves, I’ve put together seven essential questions to guide your decision. These questions will help you avoid common pitfalls, spot red flags, and hire professionals you can actually trust—whether you're moving down the street or across the country.

Is Your Moving Company Licensed and Insured?

Your best defense against moving scams starts by checking proper credentials.

The law requires moving companies to get specific licenses based on their operation area. Companies that handle moves between states must register with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and get a USDOT number.

Insurance coverage plays a crucial role too. The North Carolina Utilities Commission requires certified movers to carry at least $50,000 in cargo insurance. Notwithstanding that, you should ask for written proof of extra coverage if your belongings are worth more.

Movers without proper credentials often create problems by:

• Running operations without required insurance.

• Hiring workers without experience or proper checks.

• Using poor quality equipment and vehicles.

• Making it hard to hold them legally responsible for damages.

Interstate movers must offer two types of liability coverage:

• Full Value Protection: This makes the mover responsible to replace anything damaged or destroyed during the move. They must fix items, replace them with similar ones, or pay you their current market value.

• Released Value Protection: This simple coverage comes free but offers minimal protection—just 60 cents per pound per article. A 10-pound TV worth $1,000 would only get you $6 if damaged.

• One last check: ask to see the company's insurance certificate with you listed as the certificate holder. Good movers will show you this right away, while sketchy ones usually can't.

How Long Have You Been in Business and Who Do You Hire?

Experience plays a vital role when choosing a moving company. The number of years a firm has been around often shows how reliable and professional they are, especially in an industry where temporary operators might leave customers in trouble or scammed.

Companies with good reputations usually have many years under their belt, which shows their expertise and how well they keep customers happy. Well-established companies also maintain various trucks and run government-approved warehouses. For example, trusted moving companies in Washington DC, such as Zip Moving and Storage, have earned strong reputations through consistent service, professional crews, and a commitment to customer care.

You should ask these specific questions when talking to potential movers:

• "How many years have you been operating under your current business name?"

• "Can you provide documentation of your company's history?"

• "Is your company affiliated with any national van lines?"

National van line affiliations add extra accountability. To cite an instance, some moving companies team up with larger organizations to add another layer of quality control.

The people who handle your belongings are just as important as company history. Moving companies come in three distinct categories, each with different approaches to staffing:

1. Brokers: These companies don't move your items themselves—they pass your job to partner companies. While rates might be competitive, this means people who aren't hired by the company you chose might handle your belongings.

2. Carriers: These companies handle all moving services with their own staff, which creates better coordination than working with brokers. The company you hire does all the work themselves.

3. Hybrid broker/carriers: These businesses handle some services internally but send specialty tasks like piano moving or car shipping to other companies.

What is the Total Cost and Are There Hidden Fees?

Price transparency is a vital part of hiring a moving company. Many consumers feel shocked when they see final bills that are nowhere near their original estimates. Statistics show that more than 50% of people face unexpected costs during moves, with hidden fees adding about $723 to the total cost.

The way moving companies calculate costs varies by move type. Local moves usually have hourly rates, while long-distance moves consider weight and mileage. Most local movers charge $38-$75 per mover per hour. They typically set a minimum number of hours to cover company expenses like vehicles and equipment, regardless of actual time worked.

Your final bill can quickly grow beyond reasonable quotes due to hidden fees. Here are common unexpected charges:

• Fuel surcharges and travel fees

• Tolls and parking expenses

• Packing materials and supplies

• Long-carry fees (when movers must walk more than 75 feet from truck to door)

• Stair or elevator fees

• Bulky item charges (for pianos, pool tables, etc.)

• Assembly/disassembly of furniture

• Storage-in-transit (SIT) charges

• Shuttle services (when a large truck can't access your location)

• Expedited delivery fees

Do You Offer Packing Services or Supplies?

Professional packing services are an often overlooked option that can make moving significantly easier and less stressful. Many reputable moving companies offer a range of packing solutions. Full-service packing involves trained professionals handling everything from wrapping to organizing and even unpacking. Partial packing is a good choice if you only need help with fragile or bulky items.

For valuables like artwork, antiques, or glass tables, custom crating provides extra protection. Asking about these services upfront helps ensure the movers can meet your specific needs.

While the national average cost is around 60 dollars per hour, professional packing can be a worthwhile investment. These experts work efficiently, often completing a multi-bedroom home in under a day.

Here are key questions to ask moving companies about packing:

• "What packing service options do you offer and what does each include?"

• "Will the same crew that packs also handle the moving?"

• "Do your packing services include unpacking at the destination?"

• "Are packing materials included in your quote or charged separately?"

• "What type of insurance coverage applies to professionally packed items?"

• "How far in advance will packing occur relative to moving day?"

Professional packing services help most if you're short on time, have physical limitations, own valuable items, or just want convenience. Large homes or those with lots of fragile items often need professional packing. Long-distance moves also benefit from professional packing since items need extra protection during the longer trip.

What is Your Claims Process for Damaged or Lost Items?

Damage or loss can happen even with the best moving companies. You should understand a mover's claims process before signing a contract. This will protect you if things go wrong.

Your clock starts ticking right after your move ends. Federal law gives you nine months to file claims for interstate moves. But intrastate moves often have shorter deadlines, sometimes just 90 days. Starting the claims process early will help you meet these deadlines.

Check your belongings carefully during delivery. Here's what to do if you spot damaged or missing items:

• Take clear photos from multiple angles.

• Write down all damage or missing items on the delivery paperwork (Bill of Lading or inventory sheet).

• Contact the moving company right away, preferably the same day.

• Leave damaged items untouched until the claim is settled.

Filing a moving claim can feel overwhelming, but knowing the right steps makes a big difference. If any items arrive damaged or cartons look crushed, make a note of it at the time of delivery. Always request a company claim form and submit it with detailed descriptions, estimated values, and possible causes.

Claims must be submitted in writing, and it’s best to use certified mail so you have proof of delivery. If something breaks while you are unpacking, document it immediately.

Federal law requires interstate movers to offer two types of protection. Full Value Protection makes the company responsible for replacing or repairing damaged items, while Released Value Protection is a basic option that only pays 60 cents per pound per item. Movers must respond to your claim within 30 days and resolve it within 120 days unless they need more time.

A professional mover should clearly explain their claims process, including timelines, documentation requirements, and whether claims are handled internally or by a third party.

Can You Provide References or Customer Reviews?

Good moving companies will share their customer feedback and references when you ask. This vital step to vet potential movers will give you insights that fancy websites and promotional materials can't match.

You should check licensing and insurance, and learn about real customer experiences to evaluate a company's reliability and service quality. Ask for references directly from the moving company first. Legitimate operators share customer testimonials eagerly and usually provide contact details of previous clients.

Multiple sources should be consulted for online reviews rather than depending on just one platform. Here's what makes review research work:

• Google Reviews: A wealth of customer feedback with a ranking system based on positive reviews, average ratings, and recent activity.

• Better Business Bureau (BBB): Company ratings, complaint histories, and resolution records.

• Yelp: Detailed user-generated reviews with algorithms that filter suspicious feedback.

• MyMovingReviews: A specialized platform with genuine customer reviews and a 5-star rating system.

• Social Media: Company's profiles on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn show how businesses interact with customers.

• Reddit Communities: A great way to get unfiltered opinions—try searching "site:reddit.com moving companies" plus your location.

The company's response to negative feedback deserves special attention. Professional movers handle concerns constructively and offer fair solutions instead of ignoring complaints or responding defensively.

What is Your Cancellation or Rescheduling Policy?

Life can throw unexpected curveballs that affect your moving plans. You can avoid surprise fees and hassles by learning about a company's cancelation and rescheduling policies before signing up.

Take time to review your contract. Most moving agreements have a "Cancelation Policy" or "Service Termination" section that spells out the process, required documents, and who to contact for cancelations.

Your cancelation fees will depend on how close you are to your scheduled move date:

• 7+ days before: USD 0-50 (deposit is usually fully refundable)

• 3-6 days before: USD 75-200 (you might get a partial refund)

• 24-72 hours before: 25-50% of total cost (refunds are limited)

• Less than 24 hours: 50-100% of total cost (refunds are rare)

Most companies handle deposits (USD 100-500) this way: full refunds for canceling 7+ days ahead, 50-75% back for 3-6 days notice, and no refunds within 48 hours of the move.

Rescheduling policies differ between companies. Some let you reschedule free up to 24 hours before your move but charge USD 50-200 for last-minute changes. Weather-related delays might get more flexible treatment.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration protects consumers with these guidelines. Moving companies must:

• Provide written cancelation policies

• Not charge fees outside your contract

• Document all fees in writing

Conclusion

Choosing a moving company is not just about finding the lowest price. It’s about protecting your belongings, your time, and your peace of mind. By asking the right questions, you give yourself the best chance to avoid surprises, steer clear of shady operators, and work with professionals who actually care about your move.

The seven questions covered in this guide are more than just conversation starters. They are your checklist for spotting red flags and making smart, informed decisions. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, taking the time to ask these questions can save you money, stress, and regret. Moving is a major life event, and with the right preparation, it can also be a smooth and positive experience.