Ask the Right Questions: Tips for Getting Moving Quotes

Buying and selling a home can be stressful. Once you’re ready to move, the relief can leave you vulnerable to scams. Frankly, you’re so happy to be “done” that you can overlook red flags in your excitement. To protect your belongings and avoid extra costs or loss, learn the signs of scams when moving.

The first step is to do your research. Always make sure the moving company comes to physically inspect your belongings and gives you a firm quote. Some companies may try to give you a quote based on the size of your home or number of bedrooms, then charge you more based on time or weight. Do not hire these companies. A reputable company will spend the time to come to your home.

Next, it’s critical to check references. Ask for local references and call them. Online references and reviews can also be a good way to learn more about service and their response to problems. Ask about how they handle damage and check reviews for the insurance they offer. Ideally, you want a third-party insurance company and you may even have coverage with your own homeowner’s insurance.

Finally, get multiple quotes. Read the contracts carefully and make sure you ask about anything that can change during the move, such as delay fees, storage fees, or weight charges. Never make a large upfront payment and most companies only require a small deposit at the time of the move.

It’s natural to relax after the close of a new home, but you can avoid moving scams by staying vigilant and trust your instincts. Ask about anything that doesn’t make sense and check references. The lowest cost provider is likely low cost for a reason.

A couple of bonus tips coming from someone who has made relocating a hobby by moving 19 times.  If the moving company is packing your belongings label each room by writing the title on a sheet of paper and taping it to the door of the room.  Instruct the packers to add the title to each box, along with a description of what is in the box (i.e. master bedroom, bedroom 3, office, dining room….).  I also encourage you to place the sheet of papers on each corresponding door your are moving into to make it easier for the movers to determine where the boxes go.

If you are packing your own belongings, you can find one time used boxes and packing paper online for sale on various platforms.  Packing supplies are expensive. 

Be sure to mark your boxes with a description of what is in the box and what room it is from with a marker.  You will thank me later.

Finally, pack your essentials last such as pillows, sheets, blankets, towels, bath essentials, coffee maker, paper plates, paper towels and load last.  This means it will be the first boxes off the truck and you will have access to them right away.