Questions To Ask a Moving Company Before You Hire Them

Relocating can be a stressful time, even if you're just finding a new place across town. There is so much to do and so many contingencies to plan for that it can become overwhelming. Of course, hiring a moving company adds to the stress. But this is one area where you can relieve quite a lot of the burden on your mind if you simply ask the right questions before you sign any contracts. By doing so, you can be assured that you won't get stuck with a bottom-of-the-barrel firm that just wants to take your money and run. Here are some questions you should know the answer to before you hire.

Will there be additional fees?

The worst kind of moving company is the one that squeezes every possible dollar out of their customers by nickel-and-diming them for additional fees after they have already been quoted a price. There is nothing wrong with charging extra fees for extra services, but they should be up front about it. To make sure they aren't hiding anything, ask them flat out about the issue. Ask them if there is any reason to expect the price you were quoted won't be the final price, or at least in the ballpark.

Will you be subcontracting?

Though it comes as a surprise to many customers, there are firms who simply act as a go-between for customers and the actual moving company. They sit in an office, collect customers, and then parcel them out to whoever is available on that date. There's nothing wrong with this type of business, but you should at least know what you're getting yourself into. It does little good to research a company if they're just going to give the job to someone else. Make sure you know exactly who will be showing up at your house on the day of the move.

What references can you give me?

A moving company of any worth should be able to give you the names and numbers of at least a few customers that will speak highly of their services. You don't necessarily need to call these numbers (they probably aren't going to give you references that will speak ill of them), but it's comforting to know they can produce them upon request. Moving furniture and other belongings is a delicate business and you should have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your stuff will be in good hands. You have enough to worry about without adding that to the list.