Before you agree to anything, treat the first call with a moving company as a short interview. The answers you receive will tell you everything about how the company operates. Use this list of ten questions on every call and compare what each company says before you commit.
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Is the quoted price fixed, or can it change on the day of the move?
Some companies quote a low number and add charges on moving day once your goods are already loaded. A fixed-price commitment in writing protects you from this situation entirely. -
What services are included in this price — packing, loading, transport, unloading, and unpacking?
A quoted price means very little without knowing exactly which services it covers. Some quotes include only transport; others cover the full end-to-end operation. Confirm every service that is included so you can compare quotes on equal terms. -
Are packing materials charged separately?
Boxes, bubble wrap, stretch film, and tape add up quickly. Some companies bundle materials into the packing charge; others bill them as a separate line item. Knowing this in advance prevents a surprise on the final bill. -
Who is responsible if something is damaged or lost during the move?
Every professional company has a clear answer to this question. A vague or evasive response is a warning sign. You need to know the claims process before the move begins — not after something has already gone wrong. -
Is transit insurance included, and what does it cover?
Transit insurance is not always part of the standard price. Ask whether it is included, what the coverage limit is, and what types of damage are covered. If it is not included, ask the cost to add it — and seriously consider doing so. -
Is the company registered and licensed?
A legitimate moving company can provide its GST registration number and business registration details on request. Confirming registration takes thirty seconds and removes significant risk from the decision. -
Will the same team handle the entire move, or will goods be transferred to another vehicle?
Some companies hand goods over to a third-party carrier for the intercity leg of the journey. This is not always a problem, but you should know about it in advance. Every handover is a point where items can be misplaced or damaged, and you need to know who is accountable at each stage. -
What happens if the delivery is delayed?
Delays can happen for genuine reasons. What matters is whether the company communicates proactively and whether there is any compensation policy for significant delays. A good company has a clear and honest answer to this question. -
How do I file a complaint or claim if something goes wrong?
Ask for the specific process — not just a reassurance that the company will handle it. You want to know which person to contact, in which format, and within what timeframe. Companies with a proper process can answer this immediately. -
Can I see the full bill breakdown before I sign?
A transparent company will provide an itemised quote before any agreement is signed. If the company is reluctant to show a breakdown, that reluctance itself is the most useful information you will receive in the entire conversation.
Knowing the answers to these ten questions before you sign protects you from unexpected charges, unclear responsibilities, and difficult situations after the move is complete. A company that answers all ten clearly and without hesitation is one worth trusting with your goods.
