Hiring a moving company goes beyond just price comparison—it’s about trust, safety, and transparency. This guide outlines the most important questions to ask before committing, from licenses and insurance to packing materials, delivery timelines, and hidden charges. By being informed, you can avoid scams, protect your valuables, and ensure a smooth relocation experience. Choose wisely to make your move stress-free and secure. https://www.agarwalpacker.com

1. 12 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a
Moving Company
Relocating to a new home or office can be exciting, but it also comes with challenges.
Choosing the right moving company is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make during
this process. Many people focus only on price, but in reality, a smooth and stress-free move
depends on far more than cost alone. From protecting your valuables to ensuring on-time
delivery, the moving company you hire will play a major role in your relocation experience.
Before signing any contract, you should ask the right questions to understand what a
moving company truly offers. These questions will help you avoid hidden charges, scams,
or potential damage to your belongings. Let’s explore the 12 most important questions to
ask before hiring packers and movers.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
The first thing you should confirm is whether the company is legally registered and
insured. Licensed movers must comply with industry regulations, making them
accountable for your belongings. Insurance is equally important—it ensures you are
financially protected in case something breaks, gets lost, or is damaged during transit.

2. 👉 Pro Tip: Always ask for their GST registration number, transport license, and
insurance policy details. A reputable company will provide these without hesitation.
2. What Exactly Is Included in the Quoted Price?
Many moving companies initially provide a low estimate, only to add unexpected charges
later. These could include fees for stairs, long walking distances, weekend moves, tolls, or
dismantling furniture.
To avoid unpleasant surprises, always request a detailed breakdown of the quotation.
Ask whether it includes packing materials, loading, unloading, and GST. A transparent
company will explain every cost in writing.
3. How Do You Handle Fragile or Valuable Items?
Your fragile possessions—such as glassware, electronics, or antiques—need extra care. Not
all movers specialize in handling delicate items, so it’s important to ask what methods they
use.
Good movers rely on bubble wrap, foam sheets, edge protectors, and sometimes
wooden crates for expensive or delicate goods. They also clearly label fragile boxes to
prevent mishandling.
4. What Kind of Packing Material Do You Use?
Packing material quality can make or break your relocation experience. Lightweight
wrapping may work for short-distance moves, but for long journeys, you need shock-
resistant and waterproof materials.
Check if the company uses double-corrugated boxes, stretch film, bubble wrap, and
thermocol sheets. These not only protect your goods from impact but also from rain or
dust during transportation.
5. Can You Share References or Reviews?
A reliable moving company should have a track record of happy clients. Ask for recent
references or check Google Reviews, Justdial, or Sulekha.
👉 Red flag: If a company hesitates to share references or has consistent negative feedback
online, it’s best to avoid them.

3. 6. What’s the Estimated Delivery Timeline?
Timely delivery is crucial for planning your move. For local relocations, it should ideally be
same-day. For intercity moves, delivery may range from 2 to 7 days, depending on
distance and whether you choose a shared or dedicated vehicle.
👉 Always request the timeline in writing in your contract to avoid false promises.
7. How Do You Calculate Moving Costs?
Transparency in cost calculation shows professionalism. Movers usually calculate charges
based on:
 Volume or weight of goods
 Distance between locations
 Type of vehicle required
 Packing materials used
 Number of laborers involved
Ask for a clear cost breakdown before confirming your booking.
8. Do You Provide Transit Insurance?
Even with the best movers, accidents, rain, or theft can happen. Transit insurance is
essential, especially for long-distance relocations.
There are two common types:
 Declared Value Insurance – covers the actual declared value of your goods.
 Lump-Sum Insurance – covers all items under a fixed amount.
Clarify what’s covered, the claim process, and required documents.
9. What If Something Gets Damaged?
No one wants to think about damage, but being prepared is smart. Ask about the claims
process, compensation options, and time limits for filing a claim.
Some companies offer repair, replacement, or refunds. Having this in writing will save
you stress later.

4. 10. Can I Track My Shipment?
Technology has made tracking easier. Many reputable moving companies offer GPS
tracking or regular updates via SMS or WhatsApp.
This feature is especially useful for multi-day intercity relocations, giving you peace of
mind throughout the journey.
11. Do You Subcontract the Work?
Some movers outsource your job to third-party contractors. While this may lower costs, it
often results in accountability issues if something goes wrong.
Always confirm whether the company’s own trained staff will handle packing, loading,
and transportation.
12. Do You Offer a Pre-Move Survey?
A pre-move survey helps movers give accurate estimates. Genuine companies often provide
a free home visit or video survey to assess the volume of goods, stair access, and special
packing requirements before quoting.
If a company skips this step, it may lead to inaccurate pricing or poor service on moving
day.
Final Thoughts
Hiring the right moving company is about more than affordability—it’s about trust, safety,
and professionalism. By asking these 12 questions, you’ll protect yourself from scams,
hidden charges, and careless handling of your belongings.
✅Verify licenses and insurance
✅Check packing quality
✅Confirm timelines and costs in writing
✅Ask about insurance and claims
Relocation doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right movers, you can enjoy a smooth,
secure, and worry-free moving experience.