Below is a list of questions you should ask moving companies when choosing the mover who will be handling all of your possessions.

• Is the moving company licensed?
  
• Does the company charge by the piece or by the hour?
  
• Do they have a minimum charge? How do they charge after the minimum is met.
  
• Do they charge extra for larger items such as large screen televisions, or any extra flights of stairs to move items on? (This is not unusual.)
  
• Do they charge extra for moves after normal business hours or for a weekend move?
  
• What payment options do they offer?
  
• Do they require a deposit?
  
• Do they charge for the travel time from their office to their home?
  
• Do they have full-time employees or do they use temps and day labor? The more experienced the less likely you will incur damages. Experienced movers now how to pack with care. (Be cautious of companies that use temps or day labor because they may not be properly insured.)
  
• Do they carry Worker's Compensation for their employees?
  
• What kind of cancellation policy do they offer? (You should always be able to cancel or postpone until a few days before your move.)
  
• Do they offer free estimates? For a home larger than three rooms it is recommended you get an On-Site estimate. Make sure they include the attic, basements, outhouses, and garages in the estimate. So, you are not surprised.
  
• Are items insured during the move? (Even if a mover is bonded and insured, it doesn't mean that YOUR items are covered during the move).
  
• Make sure your moving company is willing to give you “after hour” phone numbers in case of an emergency or unexpected change.