Hiring professional movers can make your relocation smoother, safer, and less stressful, but to reap these benefits, you need to choose the right company. Whether you’re moving within Long Island or somewhere else in New York, asking the right questions helps ensure you’re partnering with qualified local movers who will treat your belongings with care. Here are the top 10 questions you should ask your local Long Island movers, along with why each one matters and what to listen for in the answers.

Are you licensed and insured?

This should be the first question you ask. A reputable moving company should have the proper state license from the New York State Department of Transportation for intrastate moves and carry both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Their licensing proves that the company meets state requirements, while insurance protects you from financial liability in case of accidents, property damage, or injury during the move. It’s crucial to inquire about the details of their insurance plans as well, as this will help you find the right coverage for your needs. Additionally, ask for their DOT number and request proof of insurance to confirm their credentials.

Do you have experience with specialty items like pianos, antiques, or large electronics?

If you’re moving fragile, heavy, or high-value items such as a piano, antique furniture, or large televisions, you’ll want to find a moving company with the right equipment and expertise. Ask any movers you consider about their specific experience handling these types of items. The right movers should know how to properly pack, pad, and transport these items without damage. Ideally, they should be able to explain how they protect and move specialty items safely.

Is the estimate binding or non-binding?

Understanding how your movers will price your relocation services is crucial. A binding estimate means the price won’t change unless you request additional services or your inventory changes. A non-binding estimate means the movers can increase the price if the job takes longer or weighs more than expected. Ask your movers to explain which type of estimate they provide and what factors might affect the final cost. Ideally, you’ll want a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate to avoid unexpected fees on moving day.

Do you have any references or online reviews I can check?

Online reviews and customer testimonials offer valuable insights into the mover’s professionalism, punctuality, and care for customers’ belongings. Reputable movers should be willing to provide references from past customers. You should also check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau, where you can read reviews. It’s also important to take note of how the company responds to any negative feedback.

How long will my move take from start to finish?

Timing is everything when planning a move, especially if you need to coordinate with lease dates, utility transfers, or family schedules. Ask your movers to estimate how long the entire process will take, including loading, transit, and unloading. Their answer should be realistic based on the size of your home and the distance involved. If their estimate seems vague or overly optimistic, that could indicate inexperience or overbooking issues.

What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Although no one ever wants to reschedule their moving plans, things can happen, and being prepared is a must. It’s important to understand the moving company’s cancellation and rescheduling terms in advance. Ask how much notice is required, whether there are any fees, and what your options are if weather or other unforeseen events interfere with your move. A clear, flexible policy shows the company is organized and provides high-quality customer service.

How many movers will be assigned to my move?

The size of the moving crew directly affects how long the move will take and how efficiently it goes. Your crew size should be dependent on the volume of items you need to move. Too few movers can mean a slower moving day, while an appropriately-sized crew can make the process much smoother. Ask how many workers will be on the job. Their answer should show they’ve considered the scope of your move and want to complete it as efficiently as possible.

Are your movers background-checked and trained?

You’re trusting your movers with access to your home and your belongings, so it’s important to understand how the moving company vets and trains its team. Reputable movers should perform background checks and provide their employees with proper training in safe lifting techniques, customer service, and packing methods. If they use subcontractors, be sure to ask about their screening process as well. Having a clear look at this process will allow you to wisely choose your movers.

Who will be my main point of contact on moving day?

Communication is key to a stress-free moving experience. Knowing who to reach out to on the day of your move ensures you can get updates, ask questions, and resolve issues quickly if they arise. Ask if there will be an on-site team leader or coordinator and get their name and phone number in advance. If the company doesn’t assign a specific point of contact, that can signal poor organization.

How do you handle claims for lost or broken items?

Even with the best movers, accidents can occasionally happen. That’s why it’s wise to ask upfront how the company handles its damage claims. A reputable moving company should have a clear claims process and offer valuation coverage options. Ask them to walk you through the steps. What do you do if something breaks? How long does it take to resolve a claim? How is compensation determined?

Get the Information You Need for Your Long Island Move

Asking these 10 essential questions will help you find trustworthy Long Island movers who are upfront, experienced, and professional. Vetting your moving company properly is an important aspect of the process, so your next move goes off without a hitch. If a company provides vague answers or seems hesitant to answer your questions, keep looking! There are plenty of reputable movers out there who will handle your relocation with care.

Want to streamline your search for reputable movers? Turn to Austin Moving & Storage, Long Island’s trusted full-service moving company. Our moving, packing, and storage solutions are designed to help our customers with local and long-distance moving needs. We will work with you to ensure your relocation services are tailored to your specific circumstances. 

Request a free quote online or call us today to learn more about our Long Island moving services!