Questions Most People Forget to Ask Their Moving Company
Hiring a moving company can make a big difference in the ease and success of your relocation. Most people focus on obvious questions: “How much will it cost?” or “Do you offer packing services?” But there are critical details that often get overlooked—details that can prevent surprises, hidden fees, or even damaged belongings.
To help you protect your move, here’s a guide to the questions most people forget to ask their moving company—and why each one matters.
1. How Do You Handle Delays or Unexpected Circumstances?
Life happens: traffic jams, bad weather, elevator outages, or last-minute building restrictions can all affect your move.
Why ask it:
Ensures you understand how the company adjusts schedules
Clarifies if there are extra fees for delays
Helps you plan your day with realistic expectations
Many people forget this question, but without an answer, you could be hit with surprise charges or downtime.
2. Are There Any Additional Fees Beyond the Quote?
It’s common to receive a base quote that doesn’t include all the extras.
Examples of potential hidden fees:
Heavy or oversized items
Stair carries or elevator fees
Long carry distances from door to truck
Packing materials or unpacking services
Storage fees if your new space isn’t ready
Why ask it:
Knowing potential extras in advance prevents a shocking final invoice. Always ask for an itemized list of what is included and what might cost extra.
3. Will You Provide a Written Estimate or Contract?
Verbal promises aren’t enough. A professional moving company should provide a clear written estimate or contract.
Why ask it:
Ensures transparency
Documents agreed-upon services, costs, and responsibilities
Protects you if there are disputes later
Don’t assume “we’ll figure it out on moving day” is sufficient—it rarely is.
4. What Is Your Damage and Loss Policy?
Even the most careful movers can encounter accidents. Most people assume insurance will automatically cover damages, but that’s not always the case.
Questions to ask:
What is covered under basic liability insurance?
Do you offer additional coverage for high-value items?
How do you handle claims?
Are fragile or antique items treated differently?
Clarifying this upfront ensures you’re financially protected if something unexpected happens.
5. Who Will Be Handling My Move?
Many companies subcontract parts of the move, or rotate staff daily. You may never know who actually carries your belongings.
Why ask it:
Ensures you have experienced, trained personnel handling your items
Confirms professional movers will pack, load, and transport your possessions
Helps prevent lost or damaged items from inexperienced crews
Always ask for an overview of the moving team and their experience level.
6. How Do You Handle Fragile or Specialty Items?
Fragile, valuable, or bulky items—like pianos, artwork, antiques, or glass—require special care.
Questions to ask:
Do you provide custom crating or specialized packing?
How do you transport delicate furniture?
Do you have climate-controlled vehicles for sensitive items?
Many people forget this until moving day—only to realize their most prized possessions are at risk.
7. Do You Offer Storage Options?
Sometimes your new space isn’t ready or timing requires temporary storage. Not all moving companies offer this service.
Why ask it:
Know if storage is available and where
Confirm insurance coverage while items are in storage
Check for accessibility and additional fees
Having a plan in advance avoids last-minute scrambling.
8. What Happens if My Move Needs to Be Rescheduled?
Life can change—construction delays, renovations, or last-minute schedule changes.
Questions to ask:
How flexible are you with moving dates?
Are there fees to change the date?
Can you accommodate short-notice moves?
Many people assume moving companies can adapt easily, but policies vary. Asking ahead prevents costly rescheduling headaches.
9. Do You Have Any Restrictions or Items You Cannot Move?
Certain items may be restricted for safety or legal reasons:
Hazardous materials (paints, propane, chemicals)
Plants
Perishable foods
Valuable or irreplaceable items
Why ask it:
Understanding restrictions early avoids wasted time and last-minute surprises on moving day.
10. How Will You Coordinate With Building Management or Elevator Schedules?
If you live in a condo or multi-storey building, access is crucial. Many people forget to ask about this until they face long waits or denied entry.
Questions to ask:
Will the movers coordinate with building management?
Are there fees for elevator usage or specific time windows?
Do they handle permits if needed for street parking or large trucks?
Proper coordination ensures a smooth move without conflicts or delays.
11. Do You Provide a Dedicated Point of Contact?
Moving day involves many moving parts. Without a dedicated contact, communication can be chaotic.
Why ask it:
You’ll know exactly who to reach if issues arise
Ensures clear instructions are followed
Keeps the move organized
Without this, small problems can become major headaches.
12. Can You Accommodate Special Timing Needs?
Businesses, home offices, or families may require after-hours, weekend, or phased moves.
Questions to ask:
Are there extra fees for non-standard hours?
Can you move in phases if necessary?
How do you schedule multiple teams for large moves?
Planning timing upfront reduces downtime and ensures your schedule isn’t disrupted.
13. What Is the Estimated Timeline for the Move?
People often forget to ask how long each stage will take, especially for large or complex moves.
Why ask it:
Helps you plan downtime or temporary office closures
Provides clarity on packing and loading schedules
Reduces stress by setting expectations
Moving companies should be able to provide a realistic timeline based on experience.
14. Can You Provide References or Reviews?
Even if a company looks professional online, it’s important to hear from real customers.
Questions to ask:
Can you provide local references?
Do you have testimonials or case studies for similar moves?
Are there reviews on Google, HomeStars, or BBB?
This helps separate reputable movers from those with a history of complaints.
Most people focus on cost and availability when choosing a moving company—but the details matter just as much. Asking these often-overlooked questions ensures you understand policies, costs, timing, and protection for your belongings.
The goal is simple: avoid surprises, reduce stress, and ensure your move goes smoothly.
By covering these questions before signing a contract, you’re much more likely to have a professional, organized, and safe moving experience—no last-minute headaches, hidden fees, or damaged items.
