top 10 questions to ask before hiring a moving company

1. TOP 1O QUESTIONS to ask before hiring a moving company

2. INTRO DUCTION Moving homes or offices sounds exciting — until the packing begins. Then come the heavy boxes, the fragile glassware, and that one couch that just won’t fit through the door. Hiring professional movers can make all the difference — if you choose the right ones. With dozens of moving companies across Illinois, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

3. This is the foundation of trust. A legitimate moving company in Illinois should be licensed by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) for local moves and have a USDOT number for interstate moves. Insurance is equally important — it protects your belongings in case of loss or damage. Always ask for their license numbers and verify them online. ARE YOU LICENSED & INSURED?

4. MORE QUESTIONS WHAT KIND OF LIABILITY COVERAGE DO YOU OFFER? WILL YOU PROVIDE A WRITTEN ESTIMATE? IS THE QUOTE BINDING OR NON-BINDING? Most movers provide two types of coverage: Verbal quotes are red flags. A binding estimate locks in the price — even if the move takes longer than expected. Basic Liability: Minimal protection, about $0.60 per pound per item. Reputable movers always provide a written, itemized estimate based on the details of your move. A non-binding estimate may increase based on the final weight or hours worked. Full Value Protection: The mover is responsible for repairing or replacing damaged goods. This helps you avoid surprise charges on moving day. Knowing this difference saves you from last- minute budget shocks. Understand what each option means for your budget and peace of mind. DO YOU OFFER PACKING AND UNPACKING SERVICES? Packing can take days (and all your sanity). Many moving companies now offer full-service packing, fragile-only packing, or DIY options with professional materials. If you have delicate items like glassware, art, or electronics, this service can be a game-changer.

5. Ask for a breakdown. Does it include packing materials, stairs, fuel, or long-carry fees? Some companies charge extra for these add- ons. Clarify everything before the big day so you don’t get caught off guard. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE? FURTHER QUESTIONS From flat-screen TVs to antique furniture, ask how the movers will protect fragile items. A good company will have specialized equipment, padding, and experienced handlers for delicate objects. HOW DO YOU HANDLE FRAGILE OR HIGH-VALUE ITEMS? Honest companies are proud of their reputation. Check their Google reviews, Yelp ratings, and BBB accreditation. You can also ask for direct references to hear from real clients. CAN YOU SHARE CUSTOMER REVIEWS OR REFERENCES?

6. MORE QUESTIONS What Happens If Something Gets Damaged? What Makes You Different from Other Movers? Even careful movers can face accidents. What matters is how they respond. This open-ended question reveals a lot. Ask about their claims process — how to report damage, how long it takes to resolve, and what compensation is available. The best moving companies have a clear philosophy — whether it’s local expertise, customer-first service, or transparent pricing. Transparency here equals accountability.

7. BOOK US for your moving & packing needs Phone 815-970-5029 Website www.a1moversil.com Address 315 S Harrison St, Geneva, IL 60134, USA Email patrickmeister@a1moversil.com