Top Questions to Ask Ann Arbor Moving Companies

December 17, 2025

Hiring a moving company can be one of the most stressful parts of relocating, whether you are moving across town or across the state. Ann Arbor has a wide range of moving companies, offering various levels of service, pricing, and expertise. Choosing the right company is essential to ensure your belongings arrive safely, your move stays on schedule, and your overall experience is as smooth as possible.

One of the most effective ways to make an informed decision is by asking the right questions before booking a moving company. This article explores the essential questions homeowners should ask, what to expect from responses, and how to use this information to choose a reliable moving company.

Key Takeaways

Asking the right questions helps identify reliable Ann Arbor moving companies.

Understanding pricing structures prevents surprise fees.

Knowing about licensing, insurance, and liability coverage protects your belongings.

Assessing services offered ensures they meet your moving needs.

Scheduling and availability impact move day efficiency.

Clear communication sets expectations and reduces stress.

Why Asking Questions Matters

Moving is a complex process involving logistics, careful packing, transportation, and unloading. Asking questions helps:

Evaluate professionalism and experience.
Compare quotes accurately across companies.
Ensure proper protection of belongings with insurance coverage.
Identify companies that can handle specific moving requirements such as large items, fragile goods, or specialty vehicles.

By asking detailed questions, homeowners can avoid unexpected costs, damaged items, or scheduling conflicts.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Why It Matters

Licensing and insurance verify that the moving company is legitimate and compliant with state and federal regulations. In the U.S., interstate movers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Even local movers should carry the proper licenses to operate legally.

Insurance protects your belongings against damage, loss, or accidents during the move.

Questions to Ask

Are you licensed to operate in Michigan?
Do you have insurance coverage for my items?
What types of insurance do you offer?
Are there options for additional coverage for high-value items?

Pro Tip: Always request copies of insurance certificates and verify coverage limits.

2. What Services Do You Offer?

Moving companies can offer a range of services from basic transportation to full-service moves. Understanding what each company provides helps ensure your needs are met.

Common Services

Service	Description
Packing	Company packs all or part of your belongings
Unpacking	Company unpacks items at the new location
Loading/Unloading	Loading items onto the truck and unloading at destination
Storage	Short-term or long-term storage solutions
Specialty Item Handling	Pianos, artwork, antiques, or fragile items
Furniture Disassembly/Reassembly	Helps with large or complex furniture

Questions to Ask

Do you offer full-service packing and unpacking?
Can you handle specialty items like pianos or artwork?
Are there extra charges for heavy or fragile items?
Do you provide temporary storage solutions if needed?

Knowing the available services helps you choose a company that matches your moving requirements.

3. How Do You Determine Pricing?

Understanding how a moving company calculates costs is crucial to avoid unexpected fees. Pricing can vary widely depending on the company, services offered, and complexity of the move.

Common Pricing Methods

Hourly Rate: Typical for local moves. Charges based on the number of movers and hours required.
Flat Rate: A single price based on the size of the move, distance, and services.
Weight-Based: Common for long-distance moves. Total cost depends on the weight of belongings.

Questions to Ask

How is the cost calculated? Hourly, flat rate, or weight-based?
Are there additional charges for stairs, long carries, or packing materials?
Is there a deposit required, and is it refundable?
How do you handle changes in move size or distance on short notice?

A clear understanding of pricing prevents surprises on move day.

4. What Is Included in Your Estimate?

Estimates can differ depending on how thorough the company is in assessing your move. Some estimates may only include basic labor, while others cover packing, materials, and insurance.

Questions to Ask

Is the estimate binding or non-binding?
What items are included in the estimate?
Are there fees not included in the estimate?
Will the estimate be revised if additional services are needed?

A detailed written estimate ensures transparency and avoids miscommunication.

5. How Do You Handle Damage or Loss?

Even with experienced movers, accidents can happen. Knowing the company’s policy for handling damaged or lost items provides peace of mind.

Questions to Ask

What is your policy for damaged or lost items?
Are claims handled in-house or through insurance?
What documentation is required to file a claim?
How long does the claims process typically take?

Understanding this policy is essential for protecting valuable items during your move.

6. What Is Your Availability?

Scheduling is critical, especially during peak moving seasons in spring and summer. Confirming a company’s availability ensures your move can occur on your desired date.

Questions to Ask

Are you available on my preferred moving date?
How far in advance should I book?
Can you accommodate last-minute or emergency moves?
What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Early booking and clear scheduling prevent conflicts and delays.

7. How Experienced Is Your Team?

Experience often correlates with efficiency and professionalism. A well-trained moving team can pack, load, transport, and unload items safely.

Questions to Ask

How long have you been in business?
Are your movers trained in handling fragile or specialty items?
Do you conduct background checks on employees?
Can you provide references from previous customers?

Experience and training can reduce the risk of damage or delays.

8. Do You Offer Packing Materials?

Some companies provide boxes, tape, and packing supplies, while others may expect homeowners to supply them. Knowing this in advance helps plan logistics.

Questions to Ask

Do you provide boxes, tape, or packing materials?
Are materials included in the estimate or charged separately?
Do you offer eco-friendly or reusable packing options?

Having the right materials ensures belongings are protected during transit.

9. Are There Reviews or References Available?

Checking reviews and references gives insight into the company’s reputation, reliability, and professionalism.

Questions to Ask

Can you provide references from recent customers?
Where can I find online reviews of your company?
How do you address negative reviews or customer complaints?

Reading multiple reviews and contacting references helps validate your choice.

10. Do You Have Special Policies for Large or Fragile Items?

Items like pianos, artwork, or large furniture require special handling. Confirming policies prevents damage or additional charges.

Questions to Ask

Do you have experience moving specialty items?
Are there additional fees for heavy or oversized furniture?
What equipment or techniques do you use to protect delicate items?

Specialized handling ensures safe transport and peace of mind.

Preventive Steps to Ensure a Smooth Move

Inventory Your Belongings: List all items and note fragile or high-value objects.
Confirm Written Estimate: Ensure all services, fees, and insurance are documented.
Label Boxes Clearly: Makes unpacking and special handling easier.
Pack Essentials Separately: Keep personal items and essentials in a separate bag or box.
Communicate Special Instructions: Notify movers about items needing special care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book an Ann Arbor moving company?
It is recommended to book at least 4–6 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.
Can I get a free estimate?
Many companies provide free on-site or virtual estimates based on the size and complexity of your move.
Are moving trucks insured for accidents?
Licensed companies typically carry commercial vehicle insurance, and additional insurance for belongings may be offered.
What happens if my move is delayed?
Delays should be communicated in advance. Check the company’s policy for rescheduling or additional fees.
How do I protect fragile items?
Use professional packing services, high-quality packing materials, and clearly label boxes as fragile.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right moving company in Ann Arbor requires research, clear communication, and asking the right questions. By addressing licensing, insurance, pricing, services, experience, and policies upfront, homeowners can reduce stress and ensure a smooth, successful move.

Taking the time to compare companies, read reviews, and request written estimates is an investment in a hassle-free relocation.