15 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company

Hiring a moving company is a big decision. You’re entrusting strangers with everything you own—your furniture, your family’s belongings, your grandmother’s china, and your peace of mind. The difference between a great moving experience and a nightmare often comes down to the questions you ask before signing anything.

At iHaul iMove, we’ve been answering these questions honestly for 18 years, earning 900+ five-star reviews from families across Colorado Springs. We believe an informed customer is our best customer. Here are the 15 questions you should ask every moving company before handing over a single box.

Licensing and Insurance Questions

These are non-negotiable. If a company can’t answer these questions clearly, walk away.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Every legitimate moving company must be licensed. For local moves within Colorado, companies need state registration. For interstate moves, a USDOT number is required.

What to look for:

• A specific USDOT number you can verify on the FMCSA website
• Proof of general liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation coverage for their crew

Red flag: If a company says “we’re working on it” or can’t produce documentation, they’re operating illegally.

2. What Insurance Coverage Do You Provide?

There are two types of moving coverage:

• Released Value Protection — Covers items at a rate of $0.60 per pound per article. This means a 50-pound TV would be covered for just $30, regardless of its actual value. This is the minimum coverage included with any move.
• Full Value Protection — The mover is responsible for the replacement value, repair, or cash settlement for damaged or lost items. This costs extra but provides real protection.

Ask: What does each option cost? Are there deductibles? Are there item exclusions?

3. Can I See Your USDOT Number and Insurance Certificate?

A legitimate company will provide these without hesitation. Verify the USDOT number independently—some scam companies use fake or stolen numbers.

Pricing and Estimate Questions

Moving costs can vary dramatically between companies. Understanding how estimates work protects you from unpleasant surprises.

4. Is This a Binding or Non-Binding Estimate?

• Binding estimate — The price is guaranteed as long as the scope of work doesn’t change. You won’t pay more than the quoted amount.
• Non-binding estimate — The final cost may be higher (or lower) based on actual weight and time. These can lead to “surprise” charges on moving day.
• Not-to-exceed estimate — A hybrid where the price won’t exceed the quote but could be lower if the move takes less time or weight than expected.

Ask: “If the move takes longer than expected, who pays for the extra time?”

5. Are There Any Additional Fees I Should Know About?

Common extra charges that companies sometimes don’t mention upfront:

• Stair fees — Extra charge per flight of stairs at either location
• Long-carry fees — If the truck can’t park close to the door (apartments, narrow streets)
• Shuttle fees — If a smaller vehicle is needed to access your property (common in mountain communities)
• Heavy item surcharges — For pianos, safes, or oversized furniture
• Fuel surcharges — Some companies add fuel costs separately
• Packing material costs — Blankets, tape, wrap, and boxes may be extra

6. Do You Require a Deposit? Is It Refundable?

Some companies require deposits to hold your moving date. This is reasonable, but understand the terms:

• How much? Large deposits (more than 20% of the total) can be a red flag.
• Is it refundable? What’s the cancellation policy?
• Payment methods? Reputable companies accept credit cards and checks. Cash-only demands are suspicious.

Experience and Reputation Questions

7. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Longevity matters in the moving industry. Companies that have been operating for years have established processes, experienced crews, and a track record you can evaluate.

iHaul iMove has served Colorado Springs since 2008—over 18 years of continuous operation.

8. Can I See Your Reviews?

Online reviews are the modern equivalent of a personal recommendation. Check multiple sources:

• Google Reviews — The most comprehensive source
• BBB (Better Business Bureau) — Check for complaints and ratings
• Yelp — Look for detailed, narrative reviews
• Facebook — Community feedback and interactions

Look for patterns. A few negative reviews are normal for any business. But consistent complaints about the same issue (hidden fees, damaged items, no-shows) are serious warning signs.

9. Do You Use Your Own Crews or Subcontractors?

Some moving companies act as brokers—they book your move, then hand it off to a subcontractor you’ve never vetted. This can lead to:

• Crews unfamiliar with the company’s standards
• No accountability if something goes wrong
• Different equipment and vehicles than expected

Best answer: “We use our own full-time crews.” At iHaul iMove, every crew member is part of our team—trained, vetted, and accountable.

Logistics and Process Questions

10. How Do You Handle Fragile and Valuable Items?

Every company should have a clear process for protecting delicate items:

• Do they use furniture pads and blankets? (Yes, they should be included)
• Do they offer professional packing services? (Our packing services and custom crating options handle even the most delicate items)
• What’s the process for claiming damaged items?

11. What Happens If Something Gets Damaged?

Before you sign anything, understand the claims process:

• How do I file a claim? Is there a time limit?
• How long does resolution take?
• Who decides the value of damaged items?

A reputable company will have a clear, fair claims process and will address issues promptly.

12. What’s Your Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy?

Life is unpredictable—closings get delayed, job transfers change, and weather happens.

• How much notice do you need for cancellation?
• Is there a cancellation fee?
• Can I reschedule without penalty?

Day-of-Move Questions

13. What Time Will You Arrive and How Long Will It Take?

Get specific details about moving day logistics:

• Arrival window — Will they give you a specific time or a vague “morning” window?
• Estimated duration — How long should you expect the move to take?
• Crew size — How many movers will be on your job?

14. What Should I Do to Prepare for Moving Day?

A good moving company will provide a preparation checklist. At minimum, they should advise you on:

• What to pack yourself versus what they’ll handle
• How to prepare appliances (disconnect, clean, etc.)
• Parking and access requirements for their truck
• Any items they won’t transport (hazardous materials, perishables, etc.)

15. Who Do I Contact If There’s a Problem on Moving Day?

Know who to call if issues arise during the move:

• On-site supervisor — Is there a lead person on the crew?
• Office contact — Can you reach the company directly?
• After-hours support — What if something comes up after the move?

Bonus: Red Flags to Watch For

Walk away from any moving company that:

• Won’t provide a written estimate — Everything should be documented
• Demands a large cash deposit — Legitimate companies offer multiple payment options
• Has no physical address — P.O. boxes and virtual offices aren’t enough
• Answers the phone with a generic name — “Movers” instead of their actual company name
• Shows up in an unmarked truck — Professional companies have branded vehicles
• Won’t let you see their license number — They may not have one

Ask Us Anything

At iHaul iMove, we welcome every question on this list—and more. Transparency is how we’ve earned 900+ five-star reviews and built lasting relationships with families across Colorado Springs and beyond.

Whether you’re planning a local move, a commercial relocation, or a long-distance move, we’re happy to answer every question to your satisfaction.

Call 719-357-5865 today for honest answers and a free, no-obligation estimate.

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