Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Minnesota Moving Company

Are You Licensed and Insured?

The first and most important question to ask any mover is whether they’re properly licensed and insured. In Minnesota, moving companies that operate across state lines must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), while intrastate movers should have a MnDOT license.

Insurance coverage is also essential. It protects both your belongings and the moving company’s workers in case of damage or accidents. Always request documentation for both licensing and insurance before hiring anyone.

Trusted local professionals, such as moving companies Brooklyn Park MN or Affinity Moving, will be transparent and provide proof of credentials without hesitation.

What Services Do You Offer?

Not all moving companies provide the same services, so it’s important to ask about what’s included in their packages. Some companies only handle transportation, while others offer full-service moving options that include packing, unpacking, storage, and even furniture assembly.

If you have unique needs such as moving antiques, pianos, or office equipment—make sure the company has experience with specialty moving. Local providers like Affinity Moving often tailor their services to fit each customer’s situation, offering flexible solutions for both residential and commercial relocations.

Knowing exactly what’s covered helps you plan your budget and prevents last-minute surprises.

Can You Provide a Written Estimate?

Cost is always a major factor when choosing a mover, but it’s important to understand how the company calculates its pricing. Ask for a written estimate and confirm whether it’s binding (fixed) or non-binding (subject to change).

A binding estimate ensures that the final cost won’t exceed the quoted amount, while a non-binding quote may change based on the final weight or time of your move.

Professional movers will typically perform an in-home or virtual assessment before quoting a price. Avoid companies that only give verbal estimates or refuse to visit your home. Reputable moving companies in Brooklyn Park MN, for example, provide clear, itemized quotes so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

What Kind of Experience Do You Have?

Experience matters in the moving industry. The more years a company has under its belt, the better equipped it is to handle logistics, weather challenges, and fragile items.

Ask how long they’ve been operating in Minnesota and whether they have experience with moves similar to yours, such as long-distance relocations, apartment moves, or commercial projects.

Companies like Affinity Moving, with years of proven local expertise, understand the unique aspects of Minnesota moves, from navigating narrow Minneapolis streets to managing winter weather conditions. This experience ensures your move runs smoothly from start to finish.

How Do You Handle Damaged or Lost Items?

Even the most careful movers can encounter accidents. That’s why it’s crucial to ask how the company handles claims for damaged or missing items.

Every reputable mover should have a clear, written policy for handling such situations. Ask whether they offer full-value protection, which reimburses you for the replacement cost of damaged items, or released value protection, which provides limited coverage based on weight.

Transparent companies like many top-rated moving companies Brooklyn Park MN will walk you through their claims process and make it easy for you to file a report if something goes wrong.

Can You Provide References or Customer Reviews?

Word-of-mouth recommendations and online reviews are among the best ways to gauge a mover’s reliability. Ask for references from recent clients or check the company’s reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Look for consistent praise regarding punctuality, professionalism, and communication. A company that responds to feedback, both positive and negative, demonstrates accountability and care for its customers.

For example, many customers of Affinity Moving highlight their friendly crews, careful handling, and punctual service qualities that set reliable local movers apart from less reputable competitors.

What Sets Your Company Apart?

Finally, ask what makes their moving company different from others. The best movers will proudly explain their strengths, whether it’s exceptional customer service, advanced equipment, competitive pricing, or personalized care.

Many moving companies Brooklyn Park MN emphasize their local expertise and community-driven approach. Local movers tend to be more flexible, accessible, and focused on maintaining strong reputations within the community.

Affinity Moving, for instance, differentiates itself through attention to detail, tailored moving solutions, and a commitment to minimizing stress for Minnesota homeowners and businesses. They treat every move as unique, ensuring a personalized experience from the first call to the final box.

Conclusion

A successful move starts with the right questions. By taking the time to ask about licensing, pricing, experience, and services, you can identify trustworthy professionals who will protect your belongings and deliver a seamless experience.

Whether you’re moving across the street or across the state, don’t settle for guesswork. Look for established experts like Affinity Moving or other reputable moving companies Brooklyn Park MN that prioritize professionalism, transparency, and customer satisfaction.

When you choose wisely, your Minnesota move becomes less about stress and more about excitement for the next chapter in your life.

Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Minnesota Moving Company