Questions to Ask a Moving Company Before Hiring (and the Answers That Should Worry You)

You receive three different moving estimates for the exact same inventory. How do you know which company is reputable and which one could surprise you with unexpected fees hidden in the contract?

Avoiding moving scams isn't just about asking the right questions—it's also about recognizing trustworthy answers and identifying warning signs before you sign a contract.

Whether you're planning a local move or an interstate relocation, understanding licensing requirements, pricing practices, and communication standards can help you choose a reliable moving company with confidence.

This guide explains the most important questions to ask before hiring movers, common warning signs to watch for, and the answers that indicate you're working with a reputable company. You can also explore Three Movers to compare licensed moving professionals and helpful relocation resources.

Before comparing prices, make sure you're dealing with a legitimate moving company.

How to Verify a Moving Company Before You Sign

Before trusting any moving company with your belongings, verify that it's properly registered and authorized to operate. While websites and marketing materials can look convincing, official FMCSA records provide reliable information about a company's licensing and operating authority. Start by asking these three essential questions:

• "Are you a motor carrier who physically moves shipments, or a broker?"
• "What are your USDOT and MC numbers?"
• "What legal business name is registered to that USDOT?"

Next, search the company's USDOT number in the FMCSA SAFER "Company Snapshot." Confirm that the entity type matches what the company told you and that its operating authority is active. You can also review the number of power units listed. If a company claims to operate its own trucks but reports none, ask for clarification before moving forward.

Be cautious if a company says its operating authority is still pending, refuses to provide licensing information, or cannot clearly explain who will perform your move. Three Movers helps connect customers with licensed, pre-vetted moving professionals, making the verification process easier.

How to Compare Moving Estimates Without Surprise Costs

Unexpected price increases are one of the most common complaints customers report after hiring a moving company. They often happen when estimates are based on incomplete inventories, unclear pricing terms, or non-binding agreements.

Before accepting an estimate, ask these questions:

• "Will you conduct a video or in-home survey?"
• "Is this estimate binding, non-binding, or binding-not-to-exceed?"
• "Is pricing based on weight, volume, or hourly rates?"
• "Can you send the written estimate with inventory attached?"

Understanding estimate types can help you avoid unexpected charges. A non-binding estimate may increase based on the final weight or services provided, while a binding estimate locks in the agreed price. A binding-not-to-exceed estimate sets a maximum price but allows you to pay less if the final cost is lower.

If a company says it doesn't need a virtual or in-home survey before providing a final estimate, treat that as a warning sign. A visual walkthrough helps create a more accurate inventory and reduces the risk of pricing disputes. If you also need packing services, consider comparing experienced full-service movers before making your decision.

How to Identify Hidden Moving Fees Before You Hire

Additional charges can significantly increase your final moving bill if they aren't discussed in advance. While some accessorial fees are legitimate, they should always be explained before you sign a contract. When requesting quotes, ask:

"Please list every accessorial charge that is not included in this estimate, along with the conditions that would trigger each fee." Ask about these specific triggers:

• Long carry: What distance triggers this fee?
• Stairs: How many flights are included before additional charges apply?
• Elevators and COIs: Are elevator reservations, certificates of insurance (COIs), or building requirements billed separately?
• Shuttle service: Will a shuttle truck be required if a large moving truck cannot reach my property?
• Specialty items and storage: Are oversized items or storage-in-transit charged separately?

Be cautious if a company responds with vague answers such as, "We'll figure that out on moving day," or cannot clearly explain when additional fees apply. Reputable movers should be transparent about every potential charge before your move begins.

Understanding Moving Coverage Before You Sign

Imagine that a large television is damaged during your move. If you only accepted the default released value coverage, compensation may be limited to $0.60 per pound, meaning reimbursement could be far less than the item's actual value. Before hiring a moving company, ask these questions about coverage:

• "Is released value or full value protection included by default?"
• "What are the deductibles and coverage exclusions?"
• "What is the claims process, timeline, and who is my contact?"

Be cautious if a company gives vague assurances such as "Everything is insured" or "Just file a claim later" without clearly explaining the type of coverage provided and the claims process.

Before moving day, photograph valuable belongings, record serial numbers when applicable, and keep a copy of your inventory list. If you're still comparing companies, Three Movers can help you find licensed movers that clearly explain their coverage options before you book.

How to Hire a Moving Company with Confidence

No moving company is perfect, but the right one should be properly licensed, transparent, and easy to communicate with. Use this checklist alongside the questions in this guide to help narrow down your options and avoid unnecessary risks.

• Verify licensing and authority: Confirm carrier or broker status and verify active USDOT and MC numbers.
• Request a visual survey: Refuse phone-only estimates; insist on a video or in-home walkthrough.
• Get your estimate in writing: Secure a written estimate, prioritizing a binding-not-to-exceed contract when available.
• Review additional fees: Confirm that thresholds for stairs, elevator use, and long carries are clearly defined.
• Choose the right valuation option: Choose and document your liability or full-value protection options.
• Confirm logistics: Confirm the pickup window, delivery schedule, and cancellation policies.

For a complete step-by-step relocation guide, explore our master moving checklist. When you're ready to compare movers, Three Movers can connect you with licensed, vetted professionals across the country.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring Movers

What are the biggest moving company red flags?

The biggest moving company red flags include a refusal to provide USDOT or MC license numbers, demanding a large cash deposit before the move, and giving an unusually low quote without conducting a physical or video walkthrough. Legitimate companies will not use high-pressure sales tactics like "today-only" discounts or present blank, incomplete paperwork. 

Is a phone-only moving estimate ever acceptable?

A phone-only estimate is only acceptable as a rough, non-binding initial price range to see if a company fits your general budget. It should never be treated as a final, guaranteed price. To get an accurate, binding quote, always request a virtual video survey or an in-person walkthrough of your inventory. Without a visual assessment of your belongings, the final bill is likely to increase on moving day.

What is the difference between a binding and a non-binding moving estimate?

A binding estimate guarantees that you will pay the exact price quoted, provided the inventory and requested services remain the same, while a non-binding estimate is simply a projected cost that can increase significantly based on the final weight of your shipment or extra services. Non-binding estimates carry a much higher risk of surprise fees on moving day. To protect your budget, secure your estimate in writing with a detailed, itemized inventory list attached to the contract.

How do I choose a moving company when comparing multiple quotes?

When comparing three to five moving quotes, review each company's licensing status, the type of estimate offered, any disclosed accessorial fees, and recent customer reviews for similar moves. The lowest price isn't always the best value. Look for a mover that provides transparent pricing, detailed written estimates, and clear communication throughout the process.

What questions should I ask before hiring movers for a long-distance move?

Before booking an interstate relocation, ask about the expected delivery window, how you'll receive updates while your shipment is in transit, and whether storage-in-transit or re-delivery fees may apply. You should also understand the company's claims process and how delayed deliveries are handled. If you're planning a cross-country move, reviewing dedicated long-distance moving resources can help you better understand federal interstate requirements.

Are full-service movers worth it?

Full-service movers are often worth the investment if you're short on time, moving fragile or specialty items, or relocating a large household. Before hiring one, confirm whether packing materials, unpacking services, and custom crating are included in the quoted price. Comparing experienced full-service movers can help you find professionals who provide the level of service you need.

Ready to compare your options? Request a free, no-obligation moving quote from Three Movers today!

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