Cities
Table of Contents
A good question asked before booking prevents a bad surprise after. This list is organised by when to ask each one — some belong in your first phone call, others matter more once you're comparing written quotes.
When You First Enquire
1. Are you the company that will actually perform the move, or do you subcontract to local partners? 2. Can you do an in-person or video survey before quoting a price? 3. How long have you operated in this city or route? 4. Do you have a GST registration and a permanent office address?
During the Survey
5. What exactly is included in the quote — packing materials, insurance, dismantling/reassembly? 6. Is this price fixed, or could it change on moving day, and under what circumstances? 7. What's your policy on long-carrying charges if the truck can't park close to my door? 8. Do you charge extra for floors without a working lift?
Before You Accept the Quote
9. Can I get this quote in writing, itemised by service? 10. Is GST included in the number you've quoted? 11. What's your cancellation and rescheduling policy? 12. How much advance payment is required, and when is the balance due?
About Insurance and Risk
13. Is transit insurance included, or is it an optional add-on? 14. What exactly does the insurance cover — transit damage only, or loading/unloading incidents too? 15. How do I file a claim, and what documentation would I need?
About the Move Itself
16. Will the same crew handle both loading and delivery, or does the shipment change hands? 17. Do you provide a signed inventory list at pickup? 18. Will I get a tracking ID or regular status updates during transit? 19. What is your estimated delivery window, and is that in writing?
One Question for Peace of Mind
20. Can I speak to a recent customer, or see reviews with specific route/date details rather than generic praise? A mover confident in their service will have no hesitation pointing you to genuine, specific feedback.
Why This Order Matters
Asking about subcontracting and surveys first filters out most of the operators worth avoiding before you invest time comparing their price. Insurance and paperwork questions matter most once you're seriously considering a specific company, since that's when the details actually affect your decision.