Moving is stressful enough as it is. The last thing you want is to hire a second-rate moving company and put yourself at risk of unsafe services, unfair prices, or fraudulent business practices. To ensure you hire a reputable moving company, you’ll want to do your due diligence and ask various movers key questions before you sign any contracts or put down any down deposits. Here are four questions to ask interstate moving companies.

1. Are you licensed through the FMCSA?

One of the best ways to avoid moving scams is to ensure the company is properly licensed through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA is a government agency that regulates commercial vehicle operations to protect consumers and companies alike.

Proper licensing won’t ensure top-notch service or fair prices. However, it does indicate that a given moving company can be trusted and isn’t just a front for a scam.

2. What kind of liability coverage do you provide?

Before handing over your most prized possessions, you should ensure your belongings are covered in case of an accident or mishap during your move. All licensed interstate moving companies are required to offer at least two different kinds of liability coverage:

1. Full Value Protection: Full Value Protection is the more comprehensive plan of the two. This type of coverage states that the mover is liable for the replacement value of any damaged or lost goods.
2. Released Value Protection: Released Value Protection is a more cost-friendly coverage option. With this coverage, the mover is liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article that may be damaged or lost. Offered at no additional charge, the protection for this type of coverage is minimal.

3. Do you have references?

Would you hire an employee without checking their references? Probably not, so why would you hire movers without asking for theirs? A well-respected moving company should have plenty of references to provide for you.

Be sure to also check their online reviews, ratings, and profiles on places like the Better Business Bureau, Google the FMCSA, and the American Moving & Storage Association.

Asking family and friends if they’ve heard of and/or worked with the top companies on your list also isn’t a bad idea.

4. Can you provide a not-to-exceed estimate or binding quote?

The last thing you want when working with movers is unforeseen expenses. Most companies offer non-binding estimates, which means the initially quoted price is subject to change. There’s value in knowing ahead of time how much you’re actually going to owe.

A binding cost estimate should be comprehensive and cover all add-ons and potential charges that could come up along the way. And if they don’t offer binding or not-to-exceed estimates, be sure to ask what they charge for add-on services such as travel time, stairs, and other things.

Start vetting interstate moving companies today

If you’re ready to start your search for interstate moving companies, reach out to us today at Amazing Moves. We are a full-service moving company committed to delivering top-notch customer service and helping you have a stress-free moving experience.

Request a free quote to get started today.