Hiring movers can feel like a gamble. We all want to trust the team we hand our stuff over to, but not every company delivers on their promises. That’s why asking the right questions upfront can save you a headache later. Below are 10 practical questions we always recommend asking before hiring a moving company in Edmonton. We’ve also added tips that can make a real difference—especially during the busiest moving seasons.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
One of the first questions we ask when looking into any moving company in Edmonton is whether they’re properly licensed and insured. This might seem obvious, but many people assume all movers are regulated, and that’s not always the case.
To clarify, licensing means they’re legally allowed to operate. Insurance protects your belongings if something goes wrong. Without these, you could be stuck with lost items and no recourse. We suggest asking for proof—not just a yes or no. A reputable company should have no issue showing you.
2. What Services Are Included in the Quote?
It’s common to get a price that sounds great, only to be hit with added charges on moving day. That’s why it’s crucial to understand what’s included in the quote and what’s not. Some companies include basic loading and unloading. Others charge extra for stairs, elevators, or even moving blankets.
We’ve seen people assume wrapping furniture or disconnecting appliances is part of the deal. However, companies often treat those as extras. To avoid surprises, ask for a detailed breakdown and make sure everything is written down. You can review available moving services in Edmonton for a clearer idea of what typical packages include.
3. Do You Have Experience With My Type of Move?
Every move is different. Moving a one-bedroom apartment is not the same as relocating a five-bedroom house or a small office. We always ask companies if they’ve done moves similar to ours. Their answer helps us gauge their confidence and whether they’re a good fit.
Experience with local buildings also matters. Some Edmonton condos or downtown spaces have specific loading zones, rules, or tight corners. A mover unfamiliar with those spaces might slow things down or damage property. Therefore, local knowledge can make a big difference in how smoothly the day goes.
4. What Is Your Cancellation or Reschedule Policy?
Life happens. You might need to shift your move date, and that can become a hassle if the moving company has a rigid or costly cancellation policy. We recommend asking upfront what their rules are regarding changes. Some allow free rescheduling with 48 hours’ notice. Others may charge a percentage of your total cost.
Knowing this helps you plan with flexibility. During peak seasons, such as summer or end-of-month dates, even a small delay can cost you more. So, check policies and make sure you’re not caught off guard.
5. Will the Same Crew Handle the Entire Move?
This question might not occur to most people until it’s too late. Some moving companies use subcontractors or third-party teams, especially for larger or longer moves. This can cause issues with accountability. We’ve heard stories of miscommunication, poor handling, and even items going missing because of crew changes.
We always prefer when the same team that loads the truck is the one who unloads it. That way, everyone is on the same page, and there’s consistency in how things are packed and handled. If possible, try to confirm this in writing.
6. What Kind of Equipment Do You Use?
It’s easy to overlook the tools of the trade, but asking what equipment they bring can tell you a lot. Do they use dollies, straps, and proper padding? Will they shrink-wrap your couch or secure glass items? These aren’t just extras—they can prevent damage and speed up the job.
We’ve moved without proper gear before, and it’s a stressful, time-consuming experience. So now, we ask upfront and make sure they’re coming prepared. If you’re moving larger items or heavy furniture, you don’t want them relying on just manpower and a rusty truck.
7. Do You Charge by the Hour or Offer Flat Rates?
Pricing models can vary a lot. Some movers charge by the hour, while others offer a flat rate based on the inventory and distance. Each has pros and cons. Hourly might work well for short, simple moves. Flat rates are often better if you want cost certainty.
Ask whether travel time or fuel is included. We’ve learned that even short-distance moves can have hidden costs if time spent in traffic or parking counts against you. Be sure to get clarity in writing, so there’s no room for debate later on.
8. Can I See Reviews or References?
Word of mouth still matters. When we’re considering a moving company in Edmonton, we like to see real customer feedback. Not just stars, but detailed reviews that talk about punctuality, attitude, and how careful they were with belongings.
Some companies will offer references. Don’t be afraid to follow up. A quick call can reveal more than a hundred online reviews. And if they’re hesitant to provide references, that could be a red flag. We think it’s worth doing a little extra research to avoid a major regret.
9. How Do You Handle Damaged or Lost Items?
Even with the best planning, things can go wrong. That’s why we always ask how damage claims are handled. Do they offer valuation coverage or insurance claims? What’s the process if something is broken or missing?
Some movers only offer minimal liability, which won’t come close to replacing valuable items. Others provide added protection for a fee. Either way, it’s better to ask early than to argue after the fact. In our experience, companies that are upfront about this tend to handle things more responsibly overall.
10. Do You Have Any Advice to Help the Move Go Smoothly?
This question can reveal a lot. If the movers care about customer experience, they’ll likely have solid tips. We’ve had crews suggest packing lighter boxes, labeling all sides, or keeping small valuables with us. Some even advised the best times to move in our area based on traffic or elevator access.
These small insights make a huge difference on moving day. So, don’t just ask logistics. Ask for advice. A company that takes the time to help you prepare is likely going to handle the job better too.
If you’re ready to ask these questions directly, you can contact Helping Hands Family Movers to start the conversation.
FAQs
How far in advance should I book a moving company?
We suggest booking at least three to four weeks ahead, especially during peak seasons like summer or the end of the month.
What’s the best day of the week to move?
Midweek days like Tuesday or Wednesday tend to be less busy, and some companies offer better availability or pricing then.
Do I need to be present during the entire move?
It’s a good idea to be there during loading and unloading to answer questions and make sure everything goes smoothly.
Should I tip movers?
Tipping isn’t required, but it’s a nice gesture if the crew works hard and treats your items with care. Many people tip $5–10 per mover per hour.
Can movers transport plants or pets?
Most companies avoid moving living things due to temperature and care needs. It’s better to transport those items yourself.
