It doesn’t matter if you are moving across the street or moving cross-country; moving can be a hassle if you are not equipped with the right information.
Surprisingly, moving is said to be one of the most stressful events in a person’s life, with over 60% of people indicating it is one of the most stressful things they have ever done.
The thing is, Much of that stress is alleviated by finding the right moving company.
But choosing a mover is not a simple task.
There are more than 7,000 registered moving companies in the U.S. How do you know who to trust?
It’s not all about price comparison. You have to do some digging and ask the right questions to ensure that your movers are capable and not just reliable.
This is particularly true if you are handling a cross-country move, which has its own challenges.
That’s why we are helping you ask the right questions.
When we’re through, you’ll feel like you’re a moving expert yourself, equipped to pick quality cross country movers and avoid the common risks.
Let’s talk about the 10 most important questions to ask your moving company before you book.
It’s important to know the services offered by movers before hiring them.
Full-service movers take care of packing and unpacking, while others only provide transportation.
Some main services to inquire about:
Packing and unpacking: Do they provide packing materials, and are they trained to handle delicate goods?
Storage solutions: Ask whether they have short- or long-term storage for things you won’t need immediately.
Specialty items: Do they move oversized or special items like pianos or antiques?
Example: If you’re looking for the best cross-country moving company, research and evaluate if they offer real time tracking for long-distance moves and how they coordinate logistics.
This is non-negotiable. Always confirm that the moving company is:
Licensed: For interstate moves, they should have a valid USDOT number registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Insured: This makes sure that your belongings are secured in case of any mishap.
A study shows that nearly 13% of moving scams involve unlicensed movers. Protect yourself by verifying the company’s credentials through FMCSA’s website.
In the digital age, reviews are your best friend.
Assess the platforms such as Google Reviews and Better Business Bureau for feedback on the company.
You can also ask for references from the company directly.
Red Flags:
When moving cross country Los Angeles, prioritize companies with high ratings and a track record of reliability.
Request a detailed quote that includes:
For instance, the average cost of a cross-country move ranges from $4,000 to $10,000. However, it depends on the size of your home, the distance, and the services required.
That’s why it is important to understand the breakdown to avoid any surprises later.
Not every moving company is equipped for long-distance relocations. Make sure the company has experience handling cross country moves and is familiar with interstate regulations.
Pro Tip: Ask if they subcontract parts of the move. Some companies hand off cross country jobs to third party carriers, which could increase the risk of mishandling or delays.
It’s not the most exciting thing to do, but nothing in life happens exactly as we anticipate.
Ask about:
Having this information can save you frustration if your move date shifts unexpectedly.
Even when using the best cross-country movers, accidents can occur.
Check the company has a clear claims process for resolving disputes.
Key aspects to confirm:
A reputable company will always provide a written estimate after assessing your belongings.
There are three common types of estimates:
Binding: It guarantees the price is based on the quoted items and services.
Non-binding: The final cost depends on actual moving weight or services.
Binding Not-to-Exceed: You pay the quoted price or less, even if the weight exceeds the estimate.
Avoid movers who refuse to provide an estimate in writing, as this is a red flag for scams.
Ask how the company keeps your property safe during the move.
Key measures contain:
Some companies guarantee delivery in a specific time frame, while others ensure the condition of your items.
Make it clear what guarantees they provide and how.
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Bonus Question
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Why It Matters
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Do you charge extra for stairs or elevators?
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Helps you budget for potential additional fees based on your home’s layout.
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What is your policy on tipping movers?
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Provides clarity on whether tipping is expected or included in the service cost.
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How do you handle bad weather conditions?
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Ensures they have a plan to protect your items during rain, snow, or extreme heat.
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Can I track my shipment in real time?
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Gives you peace of mind and transparency during a long-distance move.
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What happens if I need to delay delivery?
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Clarifies storage options or additional fees for postponed deliveries.
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Follow these effective tips to make your relocation smooth and hassle-free.
Start Planning Early
Begin preparations at least 6–8 weeks before your move. This gives you enough time to book movers, organize your belongings, and handle logistics like address changes without rushing.
Declutter Before Packing
Save time and money by getting rid of items you no longer need.
Fewer items mean lighter loads, lower moving costs, and less clutter in your new home. Donate, sell, or recycle what you don’t use.
Label Boxes Clearly
Label boxes with specific details, like “Kitchen—Dishes” or “Bedroom—Linens,” to avoid confusion.
Use colored tape or markers for each room to make unloading easy for movers.
Pack an Essentials Box
Prepare a box with essential items for your first day, such as toiletries, chargers, snacks, and a change of clothes.
Keep this box with you to avoid searching through packed boxes.
Communicate with Movers
Be clear about your needs and expectations. Walk movers through your home, point out fragile items, and confirm timelines, especially for long-distance moves.
Avoid companies that don’t provide written estimates, lack proper licensing and insurance, or request a large upfront deposit. Always research reviews and verify credentials to avoid scams.
Yes, many movers charge separately for packing materials like boxes, tape, and padding. Always confirm whether these costs are included in your estimate or billed additionally.
Yes, moving companies are often open to negotiation, especially during off-peak seasons. Request multiple quotes and leverage them to secure better pricing or additional services.
Verify the company’s USDOT number on the FMCSA website, check for proper insurance, and look for a physical office address. Reviews on platforms like Yelp or Google can also help gauge reliability.
Delays can happen due to unforeseen circumstances like weather or traffic. Confirm the company’s policies on delays, including compensation, storage options, or alternative solutions.
Choose Cross Country Moving for your next move because of our expertise, comprehensive services, reliable team, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
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