Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company in Tennessee

Moving is already stressful. Choosing the wrong moving company can make it worse. Whether you are moving across town, across Tennessee, across the country, or into storage for a while, asking the right questions upfront can help you avoid surprise charges, delays, damaged belongings, and poor communication.

At Gordon Moving & Storage, we believe customers deserve clear answers before moving day. Here are the questions we recommend asking any moving company before you hire them.

1. Are you licensed and insured?

This should be the first question.

A reputable moving company should be able to explain what licensing applies to your move and what insurance or valuation coverage is available. For local and intrastate moves, requirements can vary by state. For interstate moves, movers should follow federal requirements.

Why it matters: Licensing and insurance help protect you from fly-by-night operators and gives you more confidence that the company takes its responsibilities seriously.

Ask this:

Are you licensed and insured for my type of move?

2. Do you use trained employees or temporary day labor?

Not all moving crews are the same. Some companies rely heavily on temporary labor, especially during peak season.

That does not automatically mean the move will go badly, but you deserve to know who will be handling your furniture, boxes, antiques, appliances, and personal items.

Why it matters: Trained, experienced crews are usually better prepared to protect your home, load the truck properly, and handle unexpected issues. Employees carry the additional perk of having proven, often long, track records of consistently doing a great job. They wouldn't be there if they didn't.

Ask this:

Who will actually be doing my move, and how are they trained?

3. How do you calculate the estimate?

A trustworthy mover should be willing to explain how pricing works. Is the move hourly? Is there a travel charge? Are there truck fees, fuel charges, stair fees, long-carry fees, or packing-material charges?

Cheap estimates can become expensive if key details are left out.

Why it matters: A clear estimate helps you compare companies honestly. The lowest quote is not always the lowest final bill.

Ask this:

What is included in this estimate, and what could change the final price?

4. Do you provide written estimates?

Do not rely only on a verbal quote.

A written estimate gives both you and the moving company a clear record of what was discussed. It should include the move date, addresses, estimated services, pricing structure, and any special details.

Why it matters: Written estimates reduce confusion and make it harder for either side to misunderstand the plan.

Ask this:

Can I get the estimate in writing before I book?

5. What happens if something is damaged?

Even careful movers need a clear process for damage claims.

Ask what protection is included, what additional valuation options may be available, how claims are handled, and how quickly issues are usually addressed.

Why it matters: The best time to understand damage protection is before the truck is loaded, not after something happens.

Ask this:

What protection is included, and what is your process if something is damaged?

6. Can you handle packing, fragile items, or specialty pieces?

Some moves are straightforward. Others involve china cabinets, artwork, antiques, pianos, large safes, glass tabletops, or heavy exercise equipment.

If you have anything unusual, mention it early.

Why it matters: Specialty items may require extra planning, equipment, packing materials, or crew members.

Ask this:

Are there any items in my home that require special handling or preparation?

7. Do you offer storage if my move dates do not line up?

Closings get delayed. Rentals fall through. New homes may not be ready on time.

A mover with storage options can make those situations much easier.

Why it matters: Moving and storage together can reduce the need to unload into a temporary location and reload again later.

Ask this:

Do you offer short-term or long-term storage if my timing changes?

8. What should I do before moving day?

A good moving company should help you prepare.

They should tell you what needs to be packed, what should be disconnected, how to handle valuables, whether drawers need to be emptied, where the truck can park, and how to make the move go smoothly.

Why it matters: Preparation can save time, reduce stress, and help avoid avoidable charges.

Ask this:

What do I need to have ready before the crew arrives?

9. What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Life happens. Closing dates move. Weather changes. Family schedules shift.

Before booking, understand how the company handles rescheduling, deposits, cancellations, and peak-season availability.

Why it matters: The policy may matter a lot if your move depends on a closing date or lease start date.

Ask this:

What happens if I need to change my move date?

10. Can I see reviews from customers with moves like mine?

Reviews matter, but the most helpful reviews are specific.

Look for comments about professionalism, communication, careful handling, timeliness, and how the company handled problems.

Why it matters: Every mover can claim to be careful. Customer reviews show whether that promise holds up in real life.

Ask this:

Do you have reviews or references from customers with similar moves?

Choosing a moving company is about more than finding the lowest price. You are trusting someone with your home, your belongings, and one of the most stressful days on your calendar.

Ask clear questions. Expect clear answers. A professional mover should welcome that conversation.