Questions To Ask Long Distance Movers Before Hiring Them.
- American National Movers
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
Moving to another state and hiring movers is not as simple as a local move, which can be picked up and dropped off on the same day. Some companies will take several weeks to deliver a load exceeding 800 miles, while others will deliver it in just a few days. Long-distance moving companies like PODS offer cheaper services, but you have to do some of the work yourself, and then they subcontract the driver. Other moving options offer full-service moving, including loading, unloading, packing, and unpacking, without subcontracting. The point is that each moving company has a different way it working, especially for state-to-state hauls. This article will help you figure out the best questions to ask your long distance movers to ensure a smooth relocation experience:
What Questions Do You Ask Long Distance Movers?
Millions of Americans relocate between states, but hiring movers to help is not something a family often does—maybe once or twice in their lifetime. If you are moving out of state and hiring movers for the first time, ask these questions so that you're not blind-sighted by any unpleasant surprises:
Is This A Guaranteed Price Or An Estimate?
An interstate shipment can change in price if the contract you signed does not state "flat rate" or "binding not to exceed." A moving company reserves the right to re-negotiate your costs if your estimated cubic feet or weight is more than anticipated. To avoid any billing disputes with your movers, ask them for a guaranteed price or ensure that your quote is reasonably accurate.
How much Cubic Feet Or Weight Am I Being Quoted For?
Most interstate rates are expressed as either cubic feet (volume) or pounds (weight). Knowing the exact number keeps everyone honest. If your estimate shows "1,200 cf" or "6,500 lbs," confirm how that figure was calculated (virtual survey, in-home walk-through, or a guess over the phone). A mover that can't explain the math—or refuses to share the number—is waving a red flag.
Will My Load Be Shared, Or Will I Have A Dedicated Truck?
Ask your long distance movers about their method of transporting your household goods. Usually, there are two ways a mover will ship your belongings: by combining your shipment or by shipping your things in a dedicated truck. Each option significantly changes the average wait time for your items to be delivered to your new state.
What Is The Average Wait Time For My Things To Be Delivered?
Asking your long distance moving company for a written ETA or a guaranteed delivery date will save you a lot of stress and potentially even money. Many consumers make the mistake of assuming that each long-distance mover delivers quickly, but this is not the case.
Are You A Carrier Or A Broker? Do You Subcontract?
Ask if your movers will be handling this load directly or if they will be subcontracting. Many long distance shipping carriers operate as brokers because they do not haul your load directly. Even if the FMCSA has a state to state mover listed as a carrier, it does not guarantee that your load won't be brokered out or subcontracted.
What Forms Of Payment Do You Accept At Pick Up & Delivery?
Do not assume every mover accepts credit cards at pick up or delivery. It is common for movers to avoid CC as a form of payment and request that you pay via certified funds. If this is a problem for you, look for a large relocation brand that accepts credit cards for payment. However, they may be more expensive than a small moving company.
What Is Your DOT Number?
Every legal out of state mover must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and display a unique DOT number on documents, trucks, and marketing material. Asking for that number (and writing it down) lets you run a 30-second check on the FMCSA “Protect Your Move” database. There you’ll see:
Operating authority (carrier, broker, or both)
Active insurance on file — cargo & liability
Safety rating and any government actions or consumer complaints
If the rep hesitates, claims “we’re in the process,” or gives you a number that belongs to a different company, treat it as a flashing red light. A legitimate carrier is always happy—proud, even—to have you verify their DOT credentials before booking.
Bottom Line.
A polished website tells only half the story; the answers to the questions you get on the phone (or during a virtual survey) reveal whether a mover is transparent, flexible, and worth your money. Press for specifics—dates, dollar figures, and documented guarantees. The companies that answer quickly and in writing are the ones that deliver a smoother, drama-free relocation.
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