silhouette of a mover and a customer

When planning a long-distance relocation, your choice of mover is crucial for success. A reputable long-distance mover will ensure that your needs are met during the process and you have a smooth transition.

However, before you sign any contracts, you should ask a moving company a few questions. This article will cover some questions you should ask a long-distance mover before hiring. 

Can I See Your Licensing and Certification for Interstate Moving? 

Long-distance movers are required to have a USDOT number and proper licensing to operate. To ensure you are working with a certified mover, verify their licensing through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). 

You can input the mover's USDOT number on the website and confirm that they have proper licensing. A legitimate moving and storage company will gladly provide this information.

How Do You Transport High-Value Items?

Not all belongings are equal in value, so it's important to know how a mover will handle your most precious ones. Whether it's a piano or artwork, an experienced mover will have a plan to protect the items. 

Ask the long-distance mover about their experience with similar items and how they pack them. Many movers will recommend custom crating to ensure the item is packed properly. 

What's Included in the Estimate?

A hidden fee added to the final cost of the relocation is a surprise that nobody wants to see. When requesting a moving estimate, you should ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs.

The estimate should include things such as the following:

  • Fuel Surcharges
  • Packing Materials
  • Storage Fees
  • Any Additional Costs

What's the Insurance Claims Process? 

Despite their best efforts, there is always a risk that a mover can damage your belongings during transport. Before the moving day, you should understand the insurance claims process if you have a damaged item.

A reputable mover will provide information on required documents, timelines, and average resolution times. This knowledge will give you peace of mind and ensure that you are prepared in case they damage an item. 

What's the Delivery Timeline? 

Instead of an exact date, a long-distance relocation often has a delivery window. When interviewing a mover, you should ask about an estimated timeline before you receive your items.

In many cases, a mover will have online shipment tracking that you can use to stay updated on your relocation. Additionally, you should inquire about the timeline for shipping items if you need storage during your relocation.

Request a Free Moving and Storage Estimate Today

Foster Van Lines is a leading long-distance mover helping Bay Area residents. Contact us today to learn more about our service options and request a free quote. Call to speak with us or fill out the online quote form.