Moving FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book

Written by Zach Richards
·9 mins read

Booking a professional moving company can feel like stepping into the unknown—especially if you haven’t moved in years (or ever). Clear, trustworthy answers are hard to find amid hundreds of blog posts, forums, and social‑media threads. To cut through the noise, we compiled the ultimate list of moving FAQs—covering everything from pricing and insurance to packing hacks, timelines, and COVID‑era protocols.

Use this guide to:

  • Decode movers’ jargon—hourly rate vs. flat‑rate, valuation vs. insurance

  • Budget realistically for local and long‑distance moves

  • Avoid hidden fees and last‑minute surprises

  • Know exactly what to ask before signing any contract

Let’s dive in.

1. General Booking & Scheduling Questions

1.1 How far in advance should I book movers?

  • Peak season (May – August): 6–8 weeks ahead

  • Off‑peak (September – April): 4 weeks ahead for local moves; 6 weeks for interstate moves

  • Last‑minute moves: Call multiple companies—flexible, smaller crews (like Caddy Moving’s on‑demand teams) may still have openings, but be prepared for higher rates or limited service windows.

SEO Tip: Many people search “how early to book movers for July 1” or “last‑minute moving service near me.” Target those long‑tail phrases on your service‑area pages.

1.2 What’s the best day of the week to move?

Mid‑week (Tuesday–Thursday) typically offers:

  1. Lower hourly rates—demand dips after Monday; weekend rates can be 10–20 % higher.

  2. Easier elevator reservations if you’re in a high‑rise.

  3. Less traffic in major metro areas, trimming travel time.

1.3 How long will my move take?

Home Size Local Move (within 50 mi) Long‑Distance Move*
Studio / 1 BR 2–4 hours loading + 1–2 hrs travel & unload 1–3 days total transit
2 BR 4–6 hrs loading + 2 hrs unload 2–4 days
3–4 BR 6–8 hrs loading + 3 hrs unload 3–6 days

*Travel days vary by mileage, weather, and driver service‑hour regulations.

2. Moving Cost & Billing FAQs

2.1 How do movers price local vs. long‑distance jobs?

  • Local moves: Usually hourly (crew size × hourly rate) + truck fee + materials.

  • Long‑distance: Based on weight + mileage or a flat binding quote. Fuel surcharges and tolls may appear separately.

2.2 What’s included in a moving quote?

A reputable mover’s estimate should clearly list:

  1. Labor hours & crew size

  2. Truck size & mileage/fuel charges

  3. Packing supplies (boxes, tape, mattress bags)

  4. Optional services (assembly, TV dismounting, appliance hookup)

  5. Valuation coverage level

Red flags: “Ballpark” texts, vague lump‑sum totals, or refusal to perform a visual/virtual survey.

2.3 Are there hidden fees I should watch for?

Ask point‑blank about:

Potential Surcharge Why It Pops Up How to Avoid
Stair / long‑carry fee 2+ flights or >75 ft from truck to door Reserve curb space; ask building for loading dock access
Elevator / certificate of insurance High‑rise requires COI naming building as insured Provide mover the form early
Last‑minute date change Rescheduling within 2–3 days Confirm closing dates before you book
Bulky item fee Piano, safe, pool table Disclose specialty items during the quote

3. Packing & Supplies

3.1 Will movers pack for me?

Yes—options range from full‑service packing (every drawer, every closet) to fragile‑only (glassware, artwork). Professional packing can cut breakage rates in half but adds 25–35 % to the bill.

3.2 Can I leave clothes in the dresser?

For local moves, most movers allow lightweight clothing to stay in sturdy dressers. For long‑distance, drawers are usually emptied to reduce weight and prevent structural stress. Remove valuables and breakables in all cases.

3.3 What items can movers NOT take?

  • Hazardous materials: paint, propane, fireworks, chemicals

  • Perishables: open food, refrigerated/frozen items (over 150 mi)

  • Valuables & documents: cash, jewelry, passports, stock certificates

Pack those in a personal “no‑load” suitcase or secure lockbox.

4. Insurance, Liability & Claims

4.1 What’s the difference between valuation and third‑party insurance?

  • Released valuation (included): Pays $0.60 per pound per item—so a 20‑lb TV nets $12 if crushed.

  • Full‑value protection (upgrade): Mover repairs, replaces, or pays current market value (minus deductible).

  • Third‑party insurance: Separate policy for high‑value collections (art, wine, heirlooms).

4.2 How do I file a damage claim?

  1. Note visible damage on the bill of lading before the crew leaves.

  2. Email the mover’s claims department within 9 months (federal guideline for interstate).

  3. Provide photos, original receipts, and repair estimates.

Most reputable companies resolve claims in 30 days or less.

5. COVID‑19 & Health‑Safety Protocols (2025 Update)

  • Fully vaccinated crews upon request (supply may vary by region).

  • Contact‑free estimates via video chat remain popular.

  • Enhanced truck sanitization between jobs—EPA‑approved disinfectants.

  • Mask policy: Follows current CDC/state guidelines; clarify expectations during booking.

6. Moving‑Day Logistics

6.1 Do I need to be present while movers work?

Yes—for paperwork, walk‑through, and to answer questions. If you can’t be there, appoint an adult proxy with authority to sign documents.

6.2 How much should I tip movers?

The industry norm: $5–7 per mover per hour for exceptional service, or 10–15 % of the total job for large interstate moves. Cash is common; some companies accept digital tips. Provide cold drinks and a bathroom, too.

6.3 What happens if the truck is delayed?

  • Local: Overtime may apply if the crew is stuck in traffic.

  • Interstate: Federal regs allow 1–14 business‑day delivery windows. Request “guaranteed delivery date” (often an added fee) if timing is critical. Movers must compensate for rentals/hotel if they miss a guaranteed date.

7. Special Situations

7.1 Moving with pets

  • Transport in your own vehicle for comfort and safety.

  • Pack a “pet go‑bag”: leash, bedding, toys, kibble, vet records.

  • Update microchip address the week you move.

7.2 Senior or mobility‑restricted moves

  • Ask about senior‑move management and white‑glove unpacking.

  • Verify ramp or elevator access at both locations.

  • Schedule plenty of breaks and keep medications in an essentials tote.

7.3 Office & commercial relocations

  • Require after‑hours or weekend moves to avoid downtime.

  • Label technology assets by department—IT should prep servers and drives.

  • Ensure movers carry general liability + workers’ comp that meets landlord requirements.

8. Top 10 Questions to Ask Before You Sign a Contract

  1. Are you licensed for interstate moves (USDOT) and fully insured?

  2. Will my price be hourly, weight‑based, or binding flat‑rate?

  3. What additional fees could arise, and how are they calculated?

  4. Who will actually perform the move—employees or subcontractors?

  5. Do you offer full‑value protection, and what’s the deductible?

  6. Can I see recent references or online reviews for similar‑size moves?

  7. How do you handle claims for damaged or missing items?

  8. Is storage available if my home isn’t ready on delivery day?

  9. What is the guaranteed delivery spread for my long‑distance shipment?

  10. Can you provide a detailed, written inventory before loading?


Armed with clear answers to these moving FAQs, you’re ready to book with confidence, set a realistic budget, and breeze through moving day. Remember: the right questions up front can save thousands of dollars and untold stress later.

Ready for a Smooth, Transparent Move?

Caddy Moving combines tech‑enabled scheduling, up‑front pricing, and top‑rated crews to make relocations easy nationwide. Get every question answered—fast.