Things You Should Not Say to a Moving Company

When getting a quote from a moving company, there are some questions and/or comments you should probably avoid.  This doesn’t mean you have to tip toe around them and accept any quote you get, it means to exercise caution when interacting with your potential movers and understand how certain questions and/or comments are taken.  The following is a list of things not to say and how they can create a less cordial atmosphere.

1. “Everything I have is light”.  It still has to be handled and taken to the truck.  Don’t comment on the weight unless you have an item that is unusually heavy (safe, hot tub, armoire, etc).
2. “I don’t have that much stuff”.  That’s a relative term, just be accurate as possible.  Inaccuracy whether by mistake or on purpose will potentially cost you in the end.  Either you will have more charges or, at best, an unhappy crew (which you don’t want).
3. “Do you have any hidden charges”?  If they did, they’re not going to tell you, hence the word “hidden”.  Usually, if you ask someone if they are dishonest, you have offended them.
4. “Are your guys going to take a bunch of breaks and be slow and lazy”?  Just like with question #3, even if they are a bad mover, they are not going to tell you and run you off.
5. “Last time it took the last movers only a few hours to move, or I did my move in 2 hours”.  The moving company will probably ask “why don’t you call the last movers you used or do this move yourself?”  You are telling your mover that moving is easy, anyone (professional or not) can do it the same way.
6. 6.       “My move should only take you (#) of hours”.  You are telling the mover that you have as much (or more) expertise in calculating your move as they do, when you probably don’t.
7. 7.       “Is that the best you can do”?  Most movers aren’t going to haggle; it’s not a street bazaar or garage sale.
8. 8.       “Why do I have to pay for materials”?  Don’t kid yourself, you are.  Whether the move has an itemized list of charges or only a couple lump charges, the cost of materials will be recharged by the moving company.
9. 9.       “I’m not going that far”.  Distance in a move is only one component.  How much you have to move, what type of service, how much packing, and the access (logistics of the move at origin and destination) all play a role in determining the charges.  Just because you are moving across the street doesn’t mean its $50.
10. 10.   “I could even get a couple of your movers to do it on the side if you want”.  You are asking the mover to steal from the company.   This is not a good idea.

The common thread here is treating a potential moving company with respect.  If you don’t, and create an adversarial atmosphere, it could bite you in the end.  Do your research, check companies out and make a “value” based decision.  Price is one component but quality should not be forgotten either.  These tips should keep the tone friendlier when looking for a mover.