Last updated 2026-07-10 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
What to ask a moving company before you book separates legitimate movers from risky ones. The right questions reveal licensing, pricing, and how they handle your belongings.
Step: Ask for their USDOT or state license number
Step: Ask whether the estimate is binding or non-binding
Step: Ask exactly what the quote does and does not include
Step: Ask about valuation coverage and insurance options
Step: Ask how they handle fragile and high-value items
Step: Ask about extra fees for stairs, long carries, and bulky items
Step: Ask whether they use their own crew or subcontractors
Step: Ask for references and recent verifiable reviews
Vetting movers before booking.
When: Ask these questions while gathering estimates, before booking.
Watch out: Do not book a mover that will not give a license number or a written estimate; both are signs of a scam operation.