12 Things to Ask Before Hiring Long Distance Movers

When you’re planning a big move like from Long Island to Florida, you don’t just want someone with a truck. You want someone you can trust not to turn your life into a sitcom of missing boxes, surprise fees, and “Where is my couch?” panics. Before you sign on the dotted line, here are 12 smart questions to ask your moving candidates. 

 

 

1. Are you a carrier, a broker, or both?

Sometimes what looks like your moving company is just a middleman passing your stuff to someone else. Ask directly. Brokers may subcontract your move, creating layers of accountability issues.  

 

 

2. Do you have the proper interstate license (e.g., FMCSA / DOT)?

Because Florida is a different state from New York, the mover requires legal credentials to cross state lines. Ask for their USDOT/MC number and verify it.  

 

 

3. What insurance/valuation/coverage do you offer?

Basic liability might reimburse you pennies per pound. Ask whether full-value protection or replacement coverage is available, and what you’d pay for it. 

 

 

4. Is the estimate binding (or not-to-exceed)?

Make sure your quote is more than verbal. Binding estimates (or guaranteed pricing) help prevent surprise charges on delivery day. 

 

 

5. What additional or hidden fees might you charge?

Ask about fuel surcharges, stair or elevator fees, long carry (distance from doorway to truck), or “balcony” or “high-rise” premiums. Transparent movers will list these up front. 

 

 

6. Do you use subcontractors or temp labor, or will the same crew do pickup and delivery?

It’s better if the same team handles your entire move—less chance of miscommunication or loss.  

 

 

7. Will my shipment be consolidated (co-loaded with others) or on a dedicated truck?

If your goods are pooled with those of others, delivery may be delayed. A dedicated truck gives you more control. 

 

 

8. Do you offer tracking or guaranteed delivery windows?

You should be able to monitor your shipment’s progress and know when to expect your stuff in Florida.  

 

 

9. How do you handle claims, damages, or loss? What’s your timeline?

Ask about how to report damage (pictures, deadlines), how long you have to submit a claim, and how repairs/replacements are handled. 

 

 

10. Can you provide references or reviews from long-distance moves?

A mover who’s only moved locally may not be your ideal match. Request past client references or look for reviews specifically from Long Island → Florida moves.  

 

 

11. What items won’t you move (non-allowables)?

Hazardous materials, flammables, and perishable goods may be excluded. Be clear about which items they refuse so you can plan accordingly. 

 

 

12. When will pickup and delivery occur, and how will I be contacted during transit?

Ask for a realistic timeline, including pickup window, delivery window, and points of communication (phone, email, and tracking). Know who to call if something goes wrong.  

 

 

Bonus Tip: Local + Route Considerations 

 

 

• Ask whether they’re familiar with Long Island’s traffic, parking, and narrow streets (some neighborhoods are tight). 
• Inquire about weather or seasonal delays (e.g., hurricanes, high heat in Florida). 
• Ask about storage in transit (if needed), especially for long hauls. 
• Clarify vehicle transportation if you need your car moved. 

If you’re ready to move forward with confidence, let’s talk. Contact Samonas Prime Moving at 631-509-7059 today for a free quote.
Or click here to complete our online form, and we’ll get back to you soon!

 

 

 

“Moving Shouldn’t Be a Nightmare.
We Are Here to Be the Easiest Part of Your Move.  Let Us Make It Simple.”