Critical Questions To Ask Your Mover During a Cross-Country Move

A Complete Guide To a Smooth & Stress-Free Cross-Country Move

Moving to another state or country can be exciting. A new place, a new chapter in life. It represents many opportunities, but also a few uncertainties. After all, you’re not only dealing with the natural anxiety that comes with such a big change, but also the need to handle the move itself with the help of a specialized team that can make everything more efficient.

However, even if you’ve handled local moves before, a long-distance relocation is a completely different process and can bring up many questions. That’s why we’ve put together this guide, to help you ask the right questions when choosing a moving service and ensure everything goes smoothly.

1. Are You Licensed & Insured?

Before hiring a moving company, confirm that they’re properly licensed and insured. For interstate or cross-country moves, the company should have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This ensures that they meet national standards for safety and accountability.

Additionally, ask about their insurance coverage. For example, a professional moving company in Gilbert should offer at least two levels of protection: basic coverage and full-value protection. The latter ensures that you’ll be reimbursed for damaged or lost items based on their actual value, not just their weight.

2. How Do You Calculate Your Estimates?

Transparent pricing is one of the clearest signs of a trustworthy moving company. If a company isn’t fully aware of your distance or your specific needs but still tries to give you an estimate, be cautious. Any reputable mover will provide a quote based on concrete factors, such as the weight and size of your belongings, the distance of the move, or even the urgency of your relocation.

Ask if they offer binding or non-binding estimates. A binding estimate locks in your price as long as the inventory doesn’t change, while a non-binding one might vary slightly depending on final measurements. 

3. How Do You Handle Delays & Delivery Windows?

Cross-country moves take time, and sometimes, delays are unavoidable due to traffic, weather, or logistics. Ask your mover for a realistic delivery window and what happens if they miss it. Some companies offer guaranteed delivery dates for an extra fee, while others provide compensation if deadlines aren’t met.

Knowing these policies in advance helps you plan your travel and temporary living arrangements with confidence. Reliable long distance movers should be clear about estimated arrival dates and keep you informed throughout the trip.

4. Can You Handle Specialty Or Fragile Items?

If you own delicate, oversized, or high-value items such as pianos, antiques, or artwork, you’ll need a mover with the right equipment and expertise. Not every moving team is trained to handle these items safely. Ask if they have experience transporting special items, and whether they use protective materials, crating, or climate-controlled trucks.

It’s also smart to inquire if they subcontract certain moves. If they do, make sure those partners are licensed and insured as well. Protecting your belongings starts with understanding exactly who’s responsible for them at every stage of the move.

5. Will There Be Any Extra Fees?

Returning to the topic of transparency, it’s essential to ask about any potential additional charges during your move. A reputable company should inform you of these possibilities upfront, as it wouldn’t be fair to find out only when the situation arises.

For example, it’s common to have fees for specific packing materials, the use of stairs or hoisting equipment, or the unpacking process itself. Any trustworthy moving company will clarify and provide details about these charges in advance.

Anyway, to avoid surprises, request a full list of potential add-ons in writing. Ask about fuel charges, storage fees, or penalties for rescheduling. A transparent affordable moving company will have no problem explaining its fee structure and policies upfront.

6. What Is The Claims Process For Damaged Or Lost Items?

Even with the most careful planning, accidents can happen. That’s why a straightforward claims process is essential. Ask the company how you can file a claim, what documentation is required, and how long it typically takes to resolve.

Reputable movers will offer clear instructions and respond promptly to issues. Avoid companies that give vague answers or seem reluctant to discuss potential problems. A transparent approach to claims shows professionalism and accountability.

7. Do You Offer Packing & Storage Services?

Many people underestimate how time-consuming packing can be. Some movers offer full-service packing, where they handle everything from wrapping delicate glassware to labeling boxes. Others can supply materials if you prefer to pack yourself.

If your new home isn’t ready when you arrive, ask about temporary storage solutions. A company that provides both moving and storage under one roof will make the process far easier to coordinate. With reliable movers, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing your belongings are secure until you’re ready to settle in.

8. Can I Track My Shipment?

Modern moving companies often offer real-time shipment tracking, allowing you to monitor your belongings as they travel across the country. While this feature isn’t mandatory, it can provide extra peace of mind and help you plan around your delivery date.

But what if your moving company doesn’t offer digital tracking? Does that mean they’re unreliable? Not necessarily. What matters most is that you can get accurate information when you need it.

In this case, you should ask whether they can provide regular updates on your shipment’s progress and if you can reach out with any questions or concerns during the move. If they have no problem with this, it’s a good sign of reliability.

9. What Sets Your Company Apart?

Finally, don’t hesitate to ask what makes the moving company stand out. The best movers will highlight their experience, safety measures, customer satisfaction rates, and commitment to quality. They may also point to positive reviews or a strong community presence as proof of their reliability.

It’s important to ensure that the company has specific experience with long-distance moves. If a company primarily handles local movers but claims they can manage a long-distance relocation, approach with caution. They may not have the necessary expertise or resources for a safe and efficient cross-country move!

Take the time to compare multiple companies and check their reviews before deciding. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Look for a balance between value, transparency, and professionalism!

Ready To Begin Your Next Chapter?

A long-distance move is not something you take on every day. When facing such a major change, it’s essential to prepare not only mentally but also by choosing a team you can truly trust. That’s why asking the right questions is key to ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time at your new destination.

If you’re looking for a reliable Gilbert moving company with years of experience handling long-distance relocations, A to Z Valleywide Movers is here to help. We offer flexible services tailored to your budget, so you can start your move with total confidence. 

Contact us today and ask us any questions you need. We’ll be happy to guide you every step of the way!