Top Questions to Ask Any Moving Company—Local or Long Distance

Hiring the right moving company can make or break your relocation experience. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, the first step is choosing trustworthy movers in Portland, Oregon, who can protect your belongings and provide a smooth, stress-free transition. With so many companies competing for your attention, knowing which questions to ask will help you determine which movers are reputable, professional, and genuinely prepared for your specific needs.

Here are the key questions every homeowner or renter should ask before signing a contract.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This is non-negotiable. Licensed movers operate legally and comply with state and federal regulations. Interstate movers must have a USDOT number, while local movers must be licensed in Oregon. Insurance is equally important—it protects your possessions in case of damage, loss, or accidents.

Always request proof of:

  • Operating licence

  • Liability insurance

  • Workers' compensation coverage

If a company hesitates to provide these documents, keep looking.

2. What Does Your Quote Include?

Transparent pricing is essential. Before committing, make sure the company provides a written, itemised estimate. Ask whether their quote includes:

  • Packing materials

  • Fuel charges

  • Travel time

  • Labour fees

  • Extra charges for stairs, heavy items, or long carries

Understanding every cost upfront helps you avoid surprise add-ons on moving day.

3. Do You Offer In-Home or Virtual Evaluations?

A reliable mover will assess your belongings before offering a final quote. This allows them to estimate the weight, volume, and special handling required for your move. Companies that refuse to inspect your items usually provide inaccurate or misleading estimates.

4. What Services Do You Provide?

Every move is different, so it’s important to choose a moving company that can match your needs. Ask whether they offer:

  • Full-service packing

  • Partial packing

  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly

  • Short- or long-term storage

  • Specialty item handling (pianos, artwork, fragile items)

Movers with flexible service options tend to provide smoother, more organised relocations.

5. Can You Explain Your Claims Process?

Even with the best movers, accidents can happen. A reputable company will have a clear, straightforward process for reporting and resolving claims. Ask:

  • How damages are documented

  • How compensation is calculated

  • How long does the process typically take

This question reveals how the company handles accountability.

6. Do You Handle Both Local and Long-Distance Moves?

Some movers specialise in short local moves, while others focus on interstate relocations. If you’re planning a move beyond Oregon, make sure the company regularly handles cross-country moves and understands the logistics, regulations, and scheduling requirements.

Where the Secondary Keyword Fits Naturally

Before wrapping up your decision, ask how the company compares to other long distance moving companies in terms of planning, communication, and service guarantees. Experienced long distance moving companies will outline clear timelines, provide detailed inventory tracking, and explain how they protect belongings during extended travel. Asking these questions ensures you choose from reputable long distance moving companies that understand the demands of interstate or cross-country relocations.