<p></p> <img src="http://live-diamond-certified-wp.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/You-Move-Me-vehicle-rgb-2.jpg" alt="how" style="height: ;width: "/> <p>Before you schedule your move, make sure you know who is responsible for obtaining any necessary parking permits. Photo: You Move Me (2016)</p> <p>When it’s time to move, unless you’re planning to pack up your station wagon, you’ll need to select a moving company. As with all contractors, you should obtain at least three estimates before making a choice, but there are other factors to consider as well. Here are 20 questions you can ask to determine which moving company will best meet your needs.</p> <p><br><strong>Upfront details</strong></p> <ol> <li>What kind of liability insurance do you provide? What is covered and what is not? Can I purchase additional insurance?</li> <li>Who is responsible if something breaks?</li> <li>How does your company charge: by the number of movers, the weight or the time it takes to move?</li> <li>What does your estimate cover? What kinds of unexpected or hidden costs might come up?</li> <li>Is your estimate binding?</li> <li>How long is your estimate guaranteed?</li> <li>Do you offer moving and storage if my new home isn’t ready yet?</li> <li>How much advance notice do you need to schedule a move?</li> </ol> <p><br><strong>About the moving company</strong></p> <ol> <li>How long have you been in business?</li> <li>Can you provide references?</li> <li>Is your company licensed for interstate and international transport?</li> <li>Are your movers employees or subcontractors? How long have they worked with your company?</li> </ol> <img src="http://live-diamond-certified-wp.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/AMS-Bekins-Moving-Company.jpg" alt="moving" style="height: ;width: "/> <p>Ask your moving estimator if the moving company will provide a Not-To-Exceed price. Photo: AMS Bekins (2016)</p> <p><br><strong>The day of the move</strong></p> <ol> <li>How many movers will be coming to my home?</li> <li>How long will it take to load, move and unload?</li> <li>Do you guarantee pick-up and delivery dates? What happens if you miss one or both?</li> <li>What happens if you arrive late on the day of the move?</li> <li>Are there any items that can’t be moved without incurring an extra charge?</li> <li>Can you pack fragile items like mirrors or antiques? If so, what do you do to protect these items?</li> <li>What form of payment do you accept? When is payment expected?</li> <li>How big will the moving truck be? If it blocks the street, who will obtain any required permits? (This question is particularly important for San Francisco residents.)</li> </ol> <img src="http://live-diamond-certified-wp.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/Advantage-Moving-Storage-Moving-Company.jpg" alt="moving" style="height: ;width: "/> <p>If it’s relevant, make sure to ask your potential moving companies if they offer packing services. Photo: Advantage Moving &amp; Storage, 2016</p> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a></p> <p><strong>Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-movers/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Movers</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-movers/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Movers</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/marin-movers/" target="_self">Marin County Movers</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-movers/" target="_self">Alameda County Movers</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/solano-movers/" target="_self">Solano County Movers</a></p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Moving/" target="_self">The Essential Guide to Moving &amp; Hauling Services</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a> <br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-top-rated-companies/hub/ca/san-francisco-bay-area/" target="_self">Find Top Rated Companies in the San Francisco Bay Area</a>&nbsp;</p>