If you’re getting ready for your first move, it’s completely normal to feel overloaded with to-dos. Suddenly, you’re faced with decisions you’ve never had to make before. It’s hard to know what’s standard and what’s a sign to back out of a contract quickly.
Unfortunately, this lack of experience can leave you at the mercy of moving services with unfair prices, unsafe services, and fraudulent business practices.
Still, you don’t have to be an expert to protect yourself. A few simple questions can help you weed out the bad apples.
Asking the right questions early on gives you a clear picture of who you’re dealing with before you sign anything or hand over a deposit. Most of the answers are easy to get through a quick call with customer service, a chat with an in-home estimator, a look at recent reviews, or a simple scan of the company’s website.
Here are the questions worth asking any moving company before you decide to hire them.
Question #1: Are You Licensed and Insured?
You’d be surprised at how many people don’t ask this basic question. Any legitimate moving company should be properly licensed for the type of move you need, whether it’s local, long-distance, or commercial.
One easy way to check this is through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). While an FMCSA number doesn’t automatically guarantee great service or perfect pricing, it does confirm the company is registered and operating on the up-and-up.
Insurance is just as important. Even careful crews can run into accidents. Proper coverage protects you from paying the price if something gets damaged along the way. Without it, you’re taking on risk you shouldn’t have to.
Don’t be shy about asking for proof. A trustworthy mover will show it instantly. If they dodge the question or can’t provide details, keep looking.
Question #2: What Moving Services Do You Offer?
Not all moving services are the same, and you should never assume a company covers everything you need. Some movers only manage loading and unloading, while others take care of almost every step of the move.
Ask for details like:
- Do they provide packing and unpacking?
- Can they help disassemble and reassemble furniture?
- Do they offer short-term or long-term storage, including container options for flexible move dates?
- Are long-distance or commercial moves part of their routine?
You want a clear picture of what they take care of and what falls on your shoulders. There shouldn’t be any guesswork here.
Question #3: How Are Your Rates Structured?
Most moving companies structure their pricing around a mix of factors, including shipment weight, distance, the time of year, or simple hourly rates. Additionally, some add extra charges for fuel, heavy items, or specialty services.
Ask movers near you to walk you through their pricing system step by step. The more you understand upfront, the easier it is to budget and avoid surprises on the final bill. Keep track of what your move requires and compare it to what the company says it charges for those services.
We also recommend collecting a few quotes from different companies. If one of the competing quotes comes in lower, show it to the company you want to hire. Many movers will match a written estimate to earn your business.
Question #4: Do You Have Experience with My Type of Move?
Shifting a few boxes from a studio apartment is nothing like relocating a full family home with stairs, heavy furniture, and a packed garage. It’s worth asking potential movers near you if they have experience with situations similar to yours.
- Have they dealt with tight stairwells, elevators, narrow driveways, or long carry distances?
- Are they comfortable tackling oversized furniture, fragile antiques, artwork, or instruments?
- Do they regularly move commercial equipment and important files?
You don’t want a team figuring things out as they go while carrying your most valuable belongings. You want a crew that’s seen it, solved it, and knows exactly what to do.
Question #5: What Equipment and Crew Size Will You Provide?
Professional moving services rely on more than just manpower. Equipment like dollies, straps, padding, ramps, sliders, and protective wrap all help keep your belongings safe along the way.
Ask how many movers will be assigned to your job and what tools they plan to bring. A team that’s spread too thin can fall behind and start rushing, which may lead to accidents. A properly sized crew works efficiently, stays in sync, and takes care of your items.
Question #6: How Do You Handle Claims and Damages?
We’ve already talked about coverage, but there’s another piece to consider. Before you can receive any kind of reimbursement for damaged or missing items, you’ll need to contact your moving company and go through their claims process.
Talk to your customer service rep about the claims process, so you understand your options if something breaks or goes missing en route. Find out who you would contact, what information you would need to provide, and what kind of timeline to expect.
You’re looking for honesty and accountability. A company that takes pride in its reputation will walk you through the process clearly, even before anything goes wrong.
Question #7: Can You Provide References or Reviews?
Nothing paints a clearer picture than hearing from people who’ve already hired the company. Recent reviews and references will tell you far more than any sales pitch ever could.
Ask for a few customers you can contact, then spend a little time reading online reviews. Look for patterns, not just one glowing comment or one frustrated complaint. Do people consistently mention professionalism, good communication, and careful handling? Does the company respond to feedback or ignore it?
A dependable moving company earns its reputation one job at a time. If homeowners and businesses in your area trust them enough to recommend them, it’s a sign you’re looking at the right team.
Why So Many Tri-Cities Families Trust Larsen Transfer
Larsen Transfer has been helping families and businesses move, downsize, and relocate for more than 40 years. With decades of hands-on experience, we know how to guide every kind of transition with care and attention.
Families and businesses rely on us because:
- We are licensed, insured, and locally respected
- We offer full-service moving, including packing, loading, and secure storage services with Storage Hero units
- Our pricing is clear and upfront, with no hidden surprises
- Our experienced crews treat your belongings with care and respect
- Our responsive team is always available and ready to answer your questions
We’re proud to be one of the best-rated moving companies in the Tri-Cities. As a United agent, we also have the resources and network to cover complex logistics and long-distance moves with ease. When it’s time to relocate, trust Larsen Transfer to get you there.
A Little Work Now Can Save You a Lot of Headaches Later
Hiring a moving service is an investment in your peace of mind and a guarantee that your move will be as smooth as possible. The right team can make your move feel effortless, while the wrong one can leave you with broken furniture and bigger bills than expected.
So, ask questions, trust your gut, and don’t settle for a team that gives half-answers or skimps on the details. An experienced moving company will be direct, professional, and proud of how they operate. Want to work with the most reliable, professional movers near you in Kennewick? Contact Larsen Transfer today. We’ll walk you through your options, give you a clear quote, and make sure your move feels more stress-free from start to finish.
