Whether you’re upgrading to a high-rise condo with Phoenix skyline views or looking for more square footage in Tempe, choosing the right movers make all the difference. The wrong movers could make your moving day feel like summer traffic on the I-10, slow, frustrating and costly. So how can you be sure a moving company will treat your belongings with care? With decades of experience moving Arizona families and businesses, we know exactly which questions reveal a mover’s true quality. Use this blog as your checklist to help you sift through the options and choose a moving team you can truly trust.
10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Movers in Phoenix, AZ
1. Are the movers licensed?
Verify that your movers carry the license required for your move. If you’re moving across state lines, the moving company should have a valid USDOT number, which you can verify here. For moves within Arizona, they should be registered with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
2. Are they insured?
Movers in Phoenix are required to carry liability and cargo insurance, but that doesn’t automatically mean your belongings are fully protected. The coverage included in your moving rate is typically called basic valuation or Released Value Protection. This free option provides only minimal coverage (about $0.60 per pound, per item) which often falls far short of the actual value of your possessions, since it’s based on weight rather than replacement cost. Reputable movers explain these limitations and guide you toward more comprehensive coverage, such as Full Value Protection, which you can purchase for an additional cost through a third-party insurance company. Learn more about your options in this video and make sure you’re fully insured before moving day.
3. How long have they been in business?
A moving company that has been in business for many years has built trust in the community, earned repeat clients and proven their reliability through the years. An experienced mover has also seen it all, from tricky staircases and high-rise elevators to delicate antiques and oversized furniture, and knows how to handle moves of all kinds with expertise.
4. What are their clients saying about their moving experiences?
Choose a moving company that has many reviews. Online reviews and ratings give you valuable insight into a mover’s reputation. Look for consistent feedback across platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. A company with strong ratings and detailed reviews shows they’ve earned client trust time after time. Pay attention to how the mover responds to both positive and negative feedback, it’s often a good indicator of their professionalism and commitment to customer service.
5. Have they won any awards?
Look for movers who have a long record of winning awards for their service. Honors from trusted organizations, whether national moving associations, local business journals, or community groups, show that a moving company stands out for service, reliability and innovation. Awards confirm that clients and peers recognize a mover for quality work.
6. What do their rates include?
Before booking, make sure you know exactly what your quoted rate includes. Ask if the mover includes packing materials and protective supplies for your home, and clarify if they charge extra for stairs, elevator use, or long carries from the truck to your door. In Phoenix, where distances across the Valley can add up quickly, it’s especially important to confirm if fuel costs are included in the rate. A transparent mover will be happy to break down every detail for you. It’s also wise to ask about rates for different days and times, since prices often rise on weekends or during peak moving seasons.
7. What kind of moving services do they offer?
Not all moves are the same, so it’s important to know exactly what services a mover provides. Ask if they offer professional packing and unpacking services to save you time and protect your belongings. Find out if storage solutions are available, especially if there’s a gap between moving out and moving in. Some movers, like NorthStar Moving, offer eco-friendly packing options and concierge-style luxury services to make your move seamless. Understanding the full range of moving services upfront helps you choose a mover that fits your needs.
8. What specialty moving experience do they have?
Some moves require skills beyond loading boxes onto a truck. Ask if the mover has experience with specialty services such as relocating seniors or carefully packing and transporting artwork, antiques or other delicate items. These situations demand extra care and expertise. With proven specialty experience, a mover can anticipate challenges and care for your loved ones and belongings.
9. Can I get a free estimate?
When hiring a mover, it’s natural to compare rates, everyone wants a fair price. But a good decision comes from knowing not just the number, but what’s included in it and the reputation of the moving company making the estimate. A reputable company should provide a free estimate after learning the details of your move. Sometimes a phone conversation is enough, while in other cases a virtual or on-site walkthrough may be needed to capture unique factors. An estimate is also your chance to ask questions and understand exactly what’s included in the price. No two moves are alike, and the more accurate the estimate, the fewer surprises on moving day. Clear pricing upfront prepares you to choose the right mover.
10. Do you have any questions for me?
A great mover won’t just answer your questions — they’ll ask their own. Be wary of companies that only provide a quick quote without learning the details of your move. Reputable movers will want to know things like your timeline, access issues (stairs, elevators, parking), and any special items that need extra care. Their questions show they’re paying attention and customizing their services to your unique needs. After all, moving isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the right mover will treat your relocation as more than just another job.
Next Steps: Choosing Movers in Phoenix You Can Trust
Choosing the right movers in Phoenix doesn’t have to feel like walking barefoot on asphalt in August. By asking the right questions, you’ll easily separate reputable moving companies from the ones that cut corners. Want to dig deeper into what makes a mover reliable? Watch this quick video for more tips, and give our Phoenix team a call. We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you feel confident about your upcoming move.