Bullsh*t Detectors: 33 Questions That Make Moving Companies Squirm

What to Ask Moving Companies

Wondering what to ask moving companies before you trust them with everything you own?

You need "Bullsh*t Detectors: 33 Questions That Make Moving Companies Squirm" - your secret weapon against moving day disasters.

Bad movers hate these questions because they reveal the truth about their service.

But good movers (like us at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving) welcome them!

We know these questions separate the pros from the pretenders.

Keep reading to discover exactly what to ask and why - your wallet and your sanity will thank you.

Why You Need to Interrogate Your Movers (Before They Touch Your Stuff)

Moving is like going to the dentist - nobody likes it, but sometimes you gotta do it.

And just like you wouldn't let any random person poke around in your mouth, you shouldn't let just any moving company touch your stuff.

Think about it.

These strangers will handle everything you own:

• Your grandma's china.

• Your kid's favorite toys.

• That expensive TV you saved for months to buy.

They'll pack it, load it, and (hopefully) deliver it without breaking anything.

But how do you know they won't turn your moving day into a horror movie?

You ask questions. Hard questions. The kind that make shady movers nervous and send them running for the door.

Jae Burnham, owner of Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, says it best: "The good movers want you to ask questions. The bad ones hope you don't."

And he should know.

As a YouTube influencer and published author who founded Mr. BigStuff in January 2024, Jae has seen it all. His company already has 75+ five-star reviews on Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper because they have nothing to hide.

So let's get to it.

Here are the 33 questions that will help you find a mover who deserves your trust (and your money).

Company Credentials and Experience: Questions 1-6

1. Are you licensed and insured? Can you provide your USDOT number?

This is the big one, folks. A legit moving company should have proper licensing and insurance. For moves across state lines, they need a USDOT number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

If they hem and haw or say something like "we're working on that," RUN. That's like a doctor saying they're "pretty sure" they went to medical school.

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we proudly display our credentials. We're fully licensed and insured because we're professionals.

2. How long has your company been in business?

New doesn't always mean bad, but experience counts for a lot in the moving business.

When a company says "we've been in business for 20 years" but their website was created last Tuesday, something smells fishy. Check their online presence and reviews to back up their claims.

Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving is newer (founded January 1, 2024), but our team brings years of experience, and our 80+ five-star reviews speak for themselves. Quality matters more than age.

3. What types of moves do you specialize in (local, long-distance, international)?

Jack of all trades, master of none? Maybe. Some companies claim they can do everything, but most have specialties.

A good company will be honest about what they do best. If they say they're experts at international moves but have only done two, they're stretching the truth.

At Mr. BigStuff, we're clear about our expertise. We excel at both local and long-distance moves, with special skills in handling difficult items and tricky spaces.

4. Can you provide references from recent customers?

This question makes bad movers sweat bullets. Why? Because unhappy customers don't make good references.

Real professionals are proud to share their success stories. They'll have plenty of happy customers eager to vouch for them.

Don't just take our word for it - check out our 75+ five-star reviews or ask us for references. Our customers love talking about their positive experiences with Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving.

5. Do you have experience moving specialty items like pianos, artwork, or antiques?

That 500-pound piano or priceless painting isn't just another box. It needs special handling by people who know what they're doing.

If a mover says "sure, we can move anything" without explaining their process for special items, be worried. Very worried.

At Mr. BigStuff, we have specific training and equipment for handling your most precious and challenging items. We'll explain exactly how we'll protect them before we touch them.

6. Do you have experience with my specific type of move (apartment buildings, suburban homes, etc.)?

Moving a fifth-floor walkup is different from moving a sprawling ranch house. Each presents unique challenges.

A good mover will ask about your specific situation and explain their experience with similar moves. If they don't ask for details, they're probably not thinking ahead.

The team at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving has handled everything from tiny apartments with narrow staircases to mansion moves with delicate antiques. We've seen it all, and we plan for everything.

Estimates and Pricing: Questions 7-13

7. Do you offer in-home estimates or virtual surveys?

Surprise bills are the worst. A good mover wants to see what they're moving before giving you a price.

Be wary of companies that quote prices over the phone without seeing your stuff. That's like a contractor pricing a kitchen remodel without visiting your home.

Mr. BigStuff offers both in-home estimates and virtual surveys to make this process convenient for you. We want to be accurate from the start.

8. Is your estimate binding or non-binding?

This question separates the straight-shooters from the bait-and-switchers.

A non-binding estimate means the final price can change. That's not always bad, but you should know what you're getting into. A binding estimate means they stick to the quoted price.

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we explain the difference clearly and help you choose what's best for your situation. No surprises, no games.

9. What factors could change my final price from the estimate?

The answer to this question reveals how honest a company is about their pricing.

Good movers will be specific about what might affect your final cost - things like additional items, longer carry distances, or extra packing materials.

We at Mr. BigStuff are transparent about potential price changes. We explain upfront what might affect your final cost so you can plan accordingly.

10. What additional fees might I encounter (stairs, long carry, bulky items, etc.)?

This is where the sneaky companies try to hide their true costs.

If they say "there are no additional fees" but don't put that in writing, be suspicious. If they have a long list of potential fees but can't explain when they apply, that's also a red flag.

Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving provides a clear list of possible additional charges and explains exactly when they apply. We want you to know the full cost upfront.

11. What payment methods do you accept?

This might seem basic, but it matters. Some scammers only take cash (big red flag).

Legitimate companies offer multiple payment options and don't demand full payment upfront.

We accept credit cards, checks, and electronic payments at Mr. BigStuff. We make paying for your move as convenient as possible.

12. When is payment due? Do you require a deposit?

The answer reveals a lot about a company's financial stability and business practices.

Be cautious of movers demanding full payment upfront. That's like paying for a meal before the restaurant has even opened.

Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving has reasonable payment terms with a small deposit to secure your date and final payment when your move is complete and you're satisfied.

13. Do you offer any discounts (military, senior, off-season, etc.)?

Smart consumers ask this question. Smart companies have good answers.

If they seem annoyed by the question or say they "never discount quality service," they might be overcharging everyone.

At Mr. BigStuff, we're proud to offer discounts to military personnel, seniors, and during our less busy seasons. Just ask! We appreciate our customers and show it through fair pricing.

Services and Options: Questions 14-20

14. What services are included in your basic moving package?

This question reveals what you're actually paying for.

Some companies advertise low rates but then charge extra for services you assumed were included. That's like a hotel advertising a great room rate but charging extra for the bed.

Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving clearly outlines what's included in our base rate. We don't play games with hidden services or surprise fees.

15. Do you offer full packing and unpacking services?

Packing is often the worst part of moving. Knowing your options helps.

Good movers offer choices - from full-service packing to just handling the heavy stuff. They explain the cost differences clearly.

Our team at Mr. BigStuff offers flexible packing options to fit your needs and budget. From full-service to partial packing help, we've got you covered.

16. Do you provide packing materials? Are they included or extra?

The cost of boxes, tape, and bubble wrap adds up fast.

Some movers include basic supplies, others charge extra for everything. Neither approach is wrong, but you should know before you book.

Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving offers quality packing materials at competitive prices. We can even help you estimate how much you'll need based on your home size.

17. Do you offer furniture disassembly and reassembly?

That massive bookcase or bed frame won't move itself - and it probably won't fit through doors intact.

Good movers include basic disassembly/reassembly in their service. If they charge extra for taking apart a bed, what else will they add on?

At Mr. BigStuff, we include standard furniture disassembly and reassembly in our service. We come prepared with the right tools for the job.

18. Can you provide storage if needed? What are the rates?

Plans change. Sometimes you need to store your stuff between homes.

If a moving company offers storage, ask about security, climate control, and access. Don't store your valuables in some random warehouse.

Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving partners with secure, clean storage facilities. We can help arrange short or long-term storage as part of your moving package.

19. What services do you offer that might make my move easier?

This question reveals if a company thinks beyond the basics.

Great movers offer solutions you might not have considered - from TV mounting to appliance installation to debris removal.

The team at Mr. BigStuff is always thinking about how to make your move smoother. Just ask about our extra services that can save you time and stress.

20. Will the same crew handle my belongings throughout the entire move?

This is huge for long-distance moves. Who's actually touching your stuff?

Some companies hand off your belongings to other movers along the way. That means more people handling your things and more chances for problems.

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we maintain control of your belongings throughout the moving process. We don't subcontract your precious items to unknown third parties.

Logistics and Scheduling: Questions 21-26

21. How far in advance should I book my move?

The answer tells you how in-demand (and potentially how good) a company is.

If they say "we can move you tomorrow" during peak season, either they're not very busy or they're overextending themselves. Neither is good.

Mr. BigStuff recommends booking 3-4 weeks in advance for local moves and 6-8 weeks for long-distance moves during peak season. We can sometimes accommodate last-minute moves, but planning ahead ensures you get your preferred dates.

22. How do you determine the size of crew and truck needed?

This reveals if they're thinking carefully about your specific move.

Good movers consider the size of your home, the items being moved, access issues, and time constraints before assigning resources.

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we carefully assess each move to provide the right-sized crew and vehicles. We want to be efficient with both your time and money.

23. Can you guarantee pickup and delivery dates?

For long-distance moves especially, timing is critical.

Be wary of vague promises. Good companies will commit to specific dates or narrow windows and explain any factors that might cause delays.

Mr. BigStuff stands behind our scheduling commitments. We understand you're planning your life around these dates, and we respect that.

24. How will my belongings be tracked during transit?

This question separates the technologically advanced companies from the dinosaurs.

Modern moving companies have systems to track your belongings. If they say "don't worry, we've never lost anything," that's not reassuring.

The team at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving uses digital inventory systems and provides regular updates during long-distance moves. Your peace of mind matters to us.

25. What is your cancellation policy?

Life happens. Plans change. You need to know your options.

Fair companies have reasonable cancellation policies that protect both parties. If they have extreme penalties for changes, that's concerning.

Mr. BigStuff has a fair cancellation policy with reasonable timelines. We understand that flexibility is important when you're coordinating a complex move.

26. What happens if you can't complete the move on the scheduled day?

This question often reveals how a company handles the unexpected.

Good movers have contingency plans for bad weather, equipment breakdowns, or other issues. They should explain these clearly.

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we build buffer time into our schedules and have backup plans for unexpected situations. Your move will be completed as promised.

Protection and Claims: Questions 27-30

27. What valuation coverage options do you offer?

This is insurance talk, but it's super important.

By law, movers must offer release value protection (minimal coverage) and full value protection (more comprehensive). If they don't mention both or can't explain the difference, they're either clueless or trying to hide something.

Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving offers clear valuation options and helps you understand what's best for your specific situation. We protect what matters to you.

28. What is your claims process if items are damaged or lost?

Even the best movers occasionally have accidents. How they handle them shows their true character.

Good companies have a straightforward claims process and aren't defensive when you ask about it. If they get shifty or say "we never damage anything," be skeptical.

At Mr. BigStuff, we have a simple, fair claims process. We stand behind our work and make things right if accidents happen.

29. How do you protect furniture and fragile items during the move?

The answer reveals their attention to detail and care.

Professional movers should describe specific materials and techniques they use - furniture pads, custom crating, specialized wrapping methods, etc.

The team at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving uses industry-best practices and quality materials to protect your belongings. We treat your things like our own.

30. Do you have a process for inventorying items during the move?

This question exposes companies that cut corners.

Good movers document what they're moving, especially for long-distance relocations. This protects both you and them.

Mr. BigStuff uses detailed inventory processes to track your belongings from start to finish. Nothing gets lost on our watch.

DIY Move Assistance: Questions 31-33

31. Do you offer partial services for DIY movers (like loading/unloading only)?

Sometimes you just need a little help, not a full-service move.

Flexible companies offer options for DIY movers who want to save money by handling some tasks themselves.

At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we offer labor-only services for loading, unloading, or both. You rent the truck, we provide the muscle and expertise.

32. Can I rent or purchase packing supplies from you even if I pack myself?

Quality packing materials make a big difference.

Good moving companies often sell professional-grade supplies that are better than what you'll find at the big box store.

Mr. BigStuff offers premium packing supplies even for DIY packers. We can help you estimate what you need and provide everything from boxes to specialty materials.

33. What advice do you offer for someone managing their own move but using your services for specific tasks?

This reveals how helpful and knowledgeable a company truly is.

Great movers freely share their expertise, even if you're not using all their services. They want your move to succeed.

The team at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving loves empowering DIY movers with professional tips and tricks. We're happy to advise on packing methods, loading techniques, and move planning.

Don't Be a Moving Disaster Story

Let's be real.

We've all heard the horror stories:

• The movers who quoted $1,000 but demanded $4,000 to unload the truck

• The company that showed up with a truck half the size needed

• The "professionals" who broke the family heirlooms and shrugged it off

• The movers who simply never showed up on moving day

These disasters happen when people don't ask the right questions upfront.

But not to Mr. BigStuff customers.

Why?

Because we welcome these 33 questions. We're proud of our answers. We have nothing to hide.

Founded by Jae Burnham - YouTube influencer, published author, and moving expert - Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving combines professionalism with personality.

Our 75+ five-star reviews on Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper tell the real story.

Ready for a Stress-Free Move? Here's What to Do Next

You've got the questions.

You know what to listen for.

Now it's time to take action.

1. Call Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving at (517) 948-0894.

2. Ask us these tough questions. We welcome them!

3. Compare our answers to other companies.

4. Book your move with confidence.

Don't trust your precious belongings to just anyone.

Trust the team that's setting a new standard for moving excellence in 2024.

Visit JustTheBigStuff.com or call (517) 948-0894 today for a free, no-obligation quote.

Because at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we don't just move your stuff - we move it right.

Remember: Good movers welcome tough questions. Great movers (like us) encourage them.