Hiring a moving company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during a relocation. Ask the wrong questions — or none at all — and you could end up with hidden fees, damaged belongings, or a crew that shows up unprepared. That’s why having the right questions for movers ready before you sign anything can save you serious time, money, and stress.
Whether you’re moving across Dublin, relocating from San Francisco to Sacramento, or heading to a new home in the Central Valley, the stakes are high. A little preparation goes a long way. The tips below will help you hire confidently and avoid common pitfalls.
Not all moving companies are created equal. Some are fully licensed and insured with decades of experience. Others are not. Knowing what to ask separates the professionals from the rest.
Questions About Licensing, Insurance, and Credentials
Before anything else, you need to verify that a mover is legally allowed to operate. This protects you if something goes wrong during your move.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Every legitimate moving company operating in California must hold a valid license issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Ask for their MTR number and verify it online. Additionally, confirm they carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. If a mover hesitates to share this information, that’s a red flag.
2. Are You a Member of the Better Business Bureau or Any Industry Association?
BBB accreditation and membership in professional trade associations signal accountability. These affiliations show that a company follows ethical business practices and responds to customer concerns. Therefore, don’t skip this question — it matters more than a five-star review on its own.
3. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience counts for a lot in the moving industry. A company with 20-plus years of local experience has handled everything from narrow San Francisco staircases to large-scale commercial office moves in Sacramento. That kind of track record gives you confidence they can handle your specific situation.
Questions About Pricing and the Moving Estimate
Pricing surprises are one of the top complaints homeowners have about movers. Getting clear answers upfront prevents budget headaches on moving day.
4. Do You Offer a Free, Written Estimate?
Always ask for a written estimate before committing to anything. Reputable movers will offer a free quote and explain exactly what’s included. Be wary of companies that only provide vague verbal estimates. A written quote creates a clear record for both parties.
5. Is This a Binding or Non-Binding Estimate?
This is one of the most critical questions for movers to answer clearly. A binding estimate locks in your price regardless of the final weight or time. A non-binding estimate means the final cost could change. Understanding which type you’re receiving helps you budget accurately and avoid unexpected charges at delivery.
6. What Additional Fees Should I Expect?
Ask specifically about fuel surcharges, stair fees, long-carry fees, elevator fees, and charges for specialty items like pianos or oversized furniture. Some companies advertise a low base rate but tack on extras that inflate the final bill. A trustworthy mover will walk you through every possible charge upfront.
Questions About the Moving Process and Your Belongings
Understanding how a moving company actually operates gives you a clearer picture of what moving day will look like — and how your belongings will be treated.
7. Will My Move Be Handled by Your Own Employees or Subcontractors?
Some moving companies subcontract jobs to third parties. This isn’t always a problem, but it does raise questions about accountability and training. Companies that use their own trained, vetted employees give you more consistency and a clearer chain of responsibility if an issue arises.
8. How Do You Protect Furniture and Fragile Items During the Move?
Ask about the specific materials and methods used to protect your belongings. Professional movers should use furniture pads, stretch wrap, and proper boxes for fragile items. Furthermore, they should have established procedures for disassembling and reassembling large furniture. If a crew shows up without protective materials, your items are at risk.
9. What Does Your Insurance Coverage Include?
Many homeowners don’t realize that standard moving coverage — called Released Value Protection — only pays around 60 cents per pound for damaged items. That won’t replace your flat-screen TV or antique dresser. Ask whether the company offers full-value protection or if you need to purchase additional coverage. Some movers provide free basic insurance coverage as part of their service, so ask exactly what’s included and what it covers.
Questions About Availability and Storage Options
Logistics matter just as much as cost. Confirm that a company can actually meet your timeline and accommodate any unique needs your move may have.
10. Do You Offer Storage If I Need It?
Sometimes moves don’t go perfectly on schedule. Closings get delayed. New apartments aren’t ready on time. In those situations, short-term storage can be a lifesaver. Ask whether the company offers storage options, how secure the facility is, and what the rates are. Having a reliable storage solution in your back pocket reduces stress if your timeline shifts unexpectedly.
One More Thing: Trust Your Instincts
Beyond the ten questions above, pay attention to how a company communicates with you. Do they answer the phone promptly? Are they transparent about pricing? Do they take time to understand your move, or do they rush you toward a booking? Professionalism starts with the first phone call.
Also, take time to read verified reviews on Google, Yelp, and the BBB website. Look for patterns — both positive and negative — across multiple reviews rather than focusing on outliers. Meanwhile, ask friends, neighbors, or coworkers in the Bay Area, Sacramento, or the Central Valley for personal referrals. Word of mouth is still one of the most reliable ways to find a great mover.
Finally, get everything in writing. Your estimate, your move date, your pickup and delivery addresses, and any special instructions should all be documented. A reputable moving company will have no problem putting the details in writing because they stand behind what they promise.
Ready to Move? Start With the Right Team.
Armed with these questions for movers, you’re in a much better position to hire confidently and protect your belongings. At All Star Movers & Storage, we welcome every one of these questions because we have straightforward answers. We’re fully licensed, BBB accredited, and have served the Bay Area, Sacramento, and the Central Valley for more than 20 years.
We offer free written estimates, transparent pricing, trained movers, and short-term storage options — all backed by friendly service available seven days a week. All Star Movers & Storage is ready to make your next move smooth, safe, and stress-free. Reach out today to request your free quote and get your move on the calendar.