What to Ask a Moving Company Before Hiring?

15 Must-Know Questions for a Smooth Move

Hiring a moving company may seem straightforward, but the wrong choice can turn an exciting life transition into a nightmare. Whether you're relocating across town or across provinces, asking the right questions can protect your belongings, save you money, and ensure your move stays on track.

This guide will walk you through 15 essential questions you should always ask before hiring a moving company. We’ll break down what to listen for, what red flags to watch out for, and how to confidently compare your options.

Why These Questions Matter

Moving companies differ widely in experience, services, pricing, and customer care. You might assume all movers are created equal, but that’s far from the truth. Asking strategic questions allows you to:

• Understand the true cost of your move
  
• Verify professionalism and legal compliance
  
• Clarify what’s included and what’s extra
  
• Minimize surprises or delays on moving day
  
• Ensure your valuables are protected
  

Investing a few extra minutes in conversation upfront can spare you from frustration and added expenses later.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Any reputable moving company should be fully licensed and insured. This ensures they meet the legal requirements to operate and can offer financial protection if things go wrong.

Ask them to explain:

• What type of license they hold (provincial or federal for long-distance)
  
• Their insurance coverage: liability, cargo, and workers’ compensation
  
• Whether your items are covered for damage or loss during transit
  

You can also confirm if they offer additional insurance coverage and how claims are processed.

2. What Moving Services Do You Offer?

Not all moves are the same, and not all moving companies in British Columbia provide the same services. Some offer basic transportation, while others include packing, unpacking, disassembly, storage, or even junk removal.

Make sure you ask about:

• Residential and commercial moving services
  
• Local, long-distance, or interprovincial moves
  
• Handling of fragile, bulky, or specialty items (pianos, artwork, safes)
  
• Packing and unpacking assistance
  
• Storage options, short-term or long-term
  

Having a clear picture of what they offer helps you avoid having to coordinate with multiple service providers.

3. Can You Provide a Detailed, Written Estimate?

A trustworthy moving company will never rely on verbal estimates. They should offer a detailed, written quote that includes all costs associated with your move.

Ask:

• Is the estimate binding or non-binding?
  
• Are there any potential fees not shown on the quote?
  
• Are travel time, stairs, or heavy items extra?
  
• What happens if the actual load is less or more than expected?
  

Always request a breakdown of the estimate so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

4. Do You Offer In-Home or Virtual Assessments?

Before giving a final quote, professional movers should assess your belongings in person or through a video call. This step helps ensure your quote is accurate and avoids last-minute changes.

Ask:

• Will someone visit the property before moving day?
  
• Can they do a virtual walk-through if needed?
  
• What happens if additional items are added after the estimate?
  

An estimate based on your real inventory will be much more reliable than a guess over the phone.

5. What Is Your Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy?

Sometimes plans change. You may need to postpone or cancel your move, and knowing the terms upfront prevents financial surprises.

Ask for details like:

• How much notice is required to reschedule or cancel?
  
• Are there cancellation fees or refundable deposits?
  
• Is there more flexibility during off-peak seasons?
  

Policies vary widely, so it’s crucial to read the fine print.

6. What Happens If Items Are Damaged or Lost?

Even with the best care, accidents happen. Understanding how the company handles damage or lost belongings is key to peace of mind.

Ask:

• What is the standard liability coverage?
  
• Do they offer full replacement value protection?
  
• How are claims submitted, and what’s the timeline for reimbursement?
  

The answer reveals how accountable they are, and how well they protect your property.

7. Do You Use Subcontractors?

Some larger movers subcontract local jobs. That can affect the quality of service, accountability, and communication.

Ask:

• Will your employees handle the entire move?
  
• Are subcontractors licensed, insured, and trained?
  
• Who should I contact if there’s an issue?
  

You want one point of contact throughout the process, not a chain of middlemen.

8. Can You Guarantee Pickup and Delivery Dates?

Especially for long-distance moves, delivery windows can be vague. Some moving companies in BC provide specific dates, while others give a general range.

Ask:

• What is your delivery timeframe?
  
• Are there penalties or guarantees if delivery is late?
  
• Will I be updated during transit?
  

Knowing when your belongings will arrive can be crucial if you're coordinating move-in dates, landlords, or work schedules.

9. How Do You Handle Fragile or Valuable Items?

Delicate items need extra attention. You need to trust that the movers know how to handle antiques, glass, electronics, or collectibles with care.

Ask about:

• Custom packing for fragile items
  
• Experience with high-value pieces
  
• Additional insurance for valuable cargo
  
• Labeling and separation procedures
  

Reputable movers will walk you through exactly how they ensure fragile items arrive in perfect condition.

10. Do You Supply Packing Materials?

You may want to pack yourself or have the movers do it all. Either way, you’ll likely need boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and blankets.

Ask:

• Are packing supplies included in the quote?
  
• Can I buy extra boxes or materials from you?
  
• Will the movers pack on my behalf, and what’s the cost?
  
• Do you offer eco-friendly or reusable options?
  

Some movers provide a full kit, while others charge separately, know in advance what you’re getting.

11. How Do You Calculate Your Rates?

Pricing varies by company and by move type. It’s important to understand what drives the total cost so you can budget accurately.

Pricing Models Comparison

Pricing Method	How It Works	Common Uses
Hourly Rate	Pay per mover, per hour, plus truck time	Local or short-distance moves
Flat Rate	Fixed cost based on volume and distance	Long-distance or large moves
Weight-Based	Charged per pound of total weight	Cross-country or interstate moves
Hybrid	Combines hourly and weight or flat estimates	Complex, multi-day moves

Ask for a written explanation of their pricing model so you can compare fairly across companies.

12. Do You Offer Temporary or Long-Term Storage?

If your move-out and move-in dates don’t line up, you may need short-term storage. Some companies offer secure, climate-controlled facilities.

Ask:

• What type of storage is available?
  
• How are my items labeled and tracked?
  
• Is the storage secure and climate-controlled?
  
• What’s the cost structure, daily, weekly, or monthly?
  

Storage should be as organized and secure as your move itself.

13. What Are Your Payment Terms?

Before booking, you should be crystal clear on what is due, when, and how.

Ask:

• Is a deposit required?
  
• When is the remaining balance due?
  
• What forms of payment are accepted?
  
• Are there financing or installment options?
  

Avoid companies that demand full payment upfront with no paperwork.

14. Can You Provide References or Testimonials?

First-hand reviews tell you what to really expect. Don’t just rely on online ratings, ask to speak with previous clients directly.

Ask:

• Can you provide contact info for recent customers?
  
• Do you have experience with moves like mine?
  
• What was your last long-distance or specialty move?
  

A confident company will be proud to share positive feedback.

15. What Sets You Apart from Other Moving Companies?

This question helps you gauge their experience and professionalism. Listen for thoughtful answers that show they understand customer service, logistics, and care.

Look for responses that highlight:

• Transparent pricing
  
• Efficient processes
  
• Friendly, trained staff
  
• Track record of successful moves
  

Your move isn’t just about the truck, it’s about the people behind it.

Choosing a moving company isn’t something to take lightly. From pricing to protection, the answers to these 15 questions will reveal whether a company is worth your trust, or if you should keep looking. A little diligence upfront can lead to a much smoother move.

Ask, compare, and decide with confidence. Your move, and your belongings, deserve nothing less

Let Us Lighten the Load and know more on How BBX Moving Can Help

At BBX Moving, we know moving is more than just boxes, it’s about trust, timing, and getting your life from one place to another without stress. Whether you're planning a small local relocation or a complex long-distance move, we offer transparent estimates, highly trained movers, and personalized support every step of the way. Let us lighten the load so you can focus on what matters most.

We’re proud to serve the Greater Vancouver Area and beyond. If you have questions or want to get started, contact us at 1.855.286.4629 or email info@bbxmoving.com. You’re always welcome to visit us at 3239 No 6 Rd #165, Richmond, BC V6V 1P6, Canada. We’re ready to help when you are.