How to Properly Vet Your Moving Company

Moving to a new home can be both exciting and stressful, and choosing the right moving company can make all the difference. With so many removalists interstate companies to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.

To ensure a smooth and stress-free move, it’s important to vet potential moving companies thoroughly. In this article, we will explore ten key questions to ask when vetting a moving company to help you make an informed decision and ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible.

From licensing and insurance to pricing and services, these questions will help you find a reliable moving company that meets your needs and budget.

What is your policy on damages or lost items, and how do you handle claims?

It is important to ask this question before hiring a moving company because accidents can happen during a move, and it’s important to know what kind of protection you have for your belongings.

Here are some additional details you may want to ask the moving company about their policy on damages or lost items:

What kind of damages are covered under the moving company’s insurance policy? Are there any exclusions or limitations to coverage?

How does the moving company determine the value of damaged or lost items? Do they use an independent valuation or a specific formula?

What is the process for filing a claim for damages or lost items? Is there a specific timeframe for filing a claim?

Will the moving company repair or replace damaged items? If so, what is the timeline for these actions?

Is there a deductible or out-of-pocket cost for filing a claim? If so, what is the amount?

How does the moving company handle disputes or disagreements regarding damages or lost items?

This can give you peace of mind and help you make an informed decision when choosing a moving company.

How much notice do you need for scheduling a move, and what is your availability?

Knowing the timing of your move and whether or not the moving company can accommodate your specific needs.

Here are some additional details you may want to ask the moving company about their availability:

What is the earliest and latest date for scheduling a move with the moving company?

How much notice does the moving company require before scheduling a move? Is there a minimum or maximum amount of notice required?

Is the moving company available on the dates that you need to move? If not, are there alternative dates or times available?

What is the moving company’s policy on rescheduling or canceling a move? Is there a fee or penalty for doing so?

Will the moving company provide a guaranteed pickup and delivery date for your belongings?

What is the expected timeframe for the move, from pickup to delivery?

There questions will help you determine if the companies scheduling is organized and if they are in fact reliable if they can answer these questions.

Will you be using your own trucks and equipment or subcontractors?

It’s important to ask this question as it can affect the level of control the moving company has over the moving process and the level of accountability for any issues that may arise during the move.

Here are some additional details you may want to ask the moving company about their use of subcontractors:

If the moving company uses subcontractors, what kind of relationship does the moving company have with their list of movers? Are they licensed and insured?

Will the moving company inform you in advance if they plan to use subcontractors for your move? 

How much experience does the moving company have with the subcontractors they use? Have they worked together before, and are they familiar with each other’s processes?

How will the moving company ensure the safety and security of your belongings if they are being handled by subcontractors?

Will the moving company provide a guarantee or warranty for the work performed by subcontractors?

You may also want to ask about the moving company’s own trucks and equipment, such as how they maintain and service their fleet, to ensure that they are reliable and in good condition.

What is the payment policy and how is it structured (e.g. deposit, payment upon delivery)?

Understanding the payment terms is important, as it can affect the financial aspects of the move and how you plan and budget for it.

Here are some additional details you may want to ask the moving company about their payment policy:

What forms of payment does the moving company accept, such as cash, credit cards, or checks?

When is payment due, and how is it structured? Is there a deposit required, and if so, how much is it and when is it due?

Are there any additional fees or charges that may not be included in the estimate, such as fuel surcharges or parking fees?

Is there a penalty or fee for canceling or rescheduling the move, and if so, what is it?

What is the policy for refunds or reimbursements, such as in the case of overpayment or cancellation?

Will the moving company provide a written contract or agreement detailing the payment terms and conditions?

Do you have any additional fees or charges that may not be included in the estimate, such as fuel or parking fees?

It’s important to ask this question because it can affect the level of protection your belongings have during the move and in the event of any accidents or damages.

Here are some additional details you may want to ask the moving company about their insurance options:

What kind of insurance coverage does the moving company offer, such as basic liability, full-value protection, or separate insurance policies?

What is the cost of the insurance coverage, and how is it calculated? Is it based on the value of your belongings or a flat rate?

What is the deductible for the insurance coverage, and how does it work?

Are there any exclusions or limitations to the insurance coverage, such as for certain items or types of damages?

You can have a better understanding of the insurance options available through the moving company and how they work with these questions.

This can help you make an informed decision about the level of insurance coverage you need for your belongings during the move, and ensure that you are prepared in the event of any accidents or damages.

By having this list of questions for you mover, you will be sure that you are vetting them correctly and choosing the right moving company who can handle your job.