Choosing a moving company is about more than finding the lowest price. When you’re preparing for a move, you are trusting someone with your furniture, personal belongings, and a schedule that probably can’t afford many surprises.
Whether you’re moving from Maryland to Virginia, to Washington, D.C., or to another location in the DMV, asking the right questions before you book can save you time, money, and stress.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recommends that consumers take steps to select a reputable mover and understand their rights and responsibilities, particularly for interstate moves. ***
Before you sign a contract, ask these 10 questions of local movers.
1. Are You a Moving Company or a Broker?
This is one of the first questions worth asking. A moving company handles your move directly, while a broker typically arranges for another company to perform the actual work.
Ask who will arrive at your home on moving day, who owns the trucks, and who employs the moving crew. Knowing who you’re actually hiring can prevent confusion later.
2. Are Your Movers Employees or Temporary Labor?
The people handling your furniture matter.
Ask whether the company uses its own trained moving crews or hires temporary labor for individual jobs. Experienced movers should know how to properly wrap furniture, protect doorways and floors, load a truck safely, and handle heavier or specialty items.
3. How Will You Calculate My Moving Estimate?
Don’t be afraid to ask how your estimate was prepared. The size of your home is only one factor. The number of belongings, stairs, elevators, parking, access to the property, packing requirements, and distance can all affect a move.
Ask what is included in the estimate and whether there are circumstances that could change the final price. A clear estimate gives you a better opportunity to plan your moving budget. Always ask for your estimate and important terms in writing. You should understand what services are included, what you are expected to pay, and what circumstances could result in additional charges. If something about the estimate isn’t clear, ask before signing.
A reputable mover should be willing to explain the paperwork rather than rush you through it.
4. What Payment Options Do You Accept?
Before booking your move, ask about payment methods and when payment is due. Find out whether the company accepts major credit cards, checks, or other forms of payment, and whether a deposit is required to reserve your moving date.
It’s also worth asking whether the final payment is based on the original estimate or if certain circumstances could change the amount. Understanding the payment process ahead of time can help avoid surprises and make moving day a little easier.
5. What Services Do You Provide?
Not every move requires the same level of service. Some customers want a crew to load and transport everything. Others need help packing, unpacking, storing belongings, or handling valuable and fragile items.
Ask whether the company provides the services you need and whether those services are performed by the same moving team.
6. Who Will Handle My Belongings?
This question becomes especially important for a long-distance move. Will your furniture and boxes remain with the same crew and truck, or will they be transferred to another carrier?
That type of arrangement can provide an added level of accountability throughout the move.
7. What Happens If Something Is Damaged?
Even with careful movers, accidents can happen. Before booking, ask about the company’s procedures for damaged or missing belongings and what valuation or protection options are available.
For interstate moves, the FMCSA provides information about consumers’ rights and the different valuation options available for household goods. ***
Don’t wait until moving day to find out your options.
8. Do You Provide a Guaranteed Delivery Date?
If you’re moving long distance, the delivery schedule can be just as important as the pickup date. Ask how delivery dates are determined and what happens if your belongings are delayed. Having a clear delivery commitment can make planning your new home move much easier.
9. Do You Know the DMV Area?
Local knowledge can make a difference, especially when you’re moving around Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Traffic, parking restrictions, apartment buildings, narrow streets, loading docks, elevators, and access to older homes can all create challenges for a moving crew.
10.What Happens If My Moving Plans Change?
Life doesn’t always follow the original schedule. Ask the moving company what happens if your closing date changes, you need to adjust your moving date, or you need to add or remove services.
Understanding the company’s policies before you book can save you headaches later and give you more flexibility if something unexpected comes up.
For homeowners and businesses throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia, Metropolitan Moving & Storage provides local and long-distance moving services with a focus on personalized service and transparent pricing. The company is locally owned and operated and provides dedicated crews and trucks for its customers.
Contact Metropolitan Moving & Storage today to request your free moving estimate and speak with a moving professional about your upcoming relocation.
We serve the Laurel, Silver Spring, Rockville, Bethesda, Columbia, College Park, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. area.
*** For more information, visit the Protect Your Move website.
