Decision guide · 6 min read
How to Choose a Senior Mover: 12 Questions to Ask
Most moving companies will quote a senior move. Few are actually equipped to handle one well. The difference shows up in patience, packing care, communication with family, and what happens when something goes wrong. Here are the twelve questions that separate a real senior-relocation specialist from a generic mover with a website that mentions seniors.
“Are your crews employees or subcontractors?”
Employee crews are W-2, trained, and accountable to the company. Subcontractors are freelancers paid per move with no consistent training. For a senior move, you want employees. If a company won’t answer directly, that’s your answer — they subcontract.
“Will the same crew that loads also unload?”
For long-distance moves, sometimes a destination crew handover is unavoidable. But the company should be able to tell you who will be at destination, that they’re also W-2 with the same company, and that they’ll be briefed on the senior’s specific needs.
“Is the quote binding or non-binding?”
Always binding. A non-binding “estimate” gives the mover license to charge whatever they want at delivery. We’ve seen senior families face $9,000 in delivery-day surprise charges on a $4,000 estimated move. Always binding. Always in writing. Always before any work begins.
“What’s your USDOT number and BBB rating?”
USDOT registration is required for any interstate move. Confirm the number on the FMCSA SAFER website (free, public). BBB rating should be A or A+ with at least 2 years of operating history.
“What insurance is included? What’s available?”
Default ($0.60 per pound) is essentially worthless. Ask what Full Value Protection adds to the quote — it should be $0–$300 for most senior moves.
“Do you offer settle-in services?”
Standard settle-in (unpack boxes, place furniture, make bed, remove debris) is essential for a senior move. If the mover doesn’t offer it or charges several thousand dollars extra for it, find another mover.
“Have you handled a move like ours specifically?”
Northeast to Florida is different from suburb to assisted living, which is different from coast-to-coast. Ask for two or three references from senior moves similar to yours.
“How do you communicate with family during the move?”
For senior moves, family is often scattered across states. The mover should have a clear answer: dedicated coordinator, text updates, photos as rooms are packed, video walkthrough at destination.
“Who do I call if something goes wrong?”
Names and phone numbers. A salesperson’s answer to “what if?” should be a specific person, not “our customer service team.”
“What’s your downsizing process?”
Most senior moves include downsizing because the new home is smaller. The mover should be able to describe a sorting process, partner with local donation organizations, and offer storage during the transition.
“Can I see your contract before I commit?”
Read every line. Make sure binding-price language is explicit. Check the cancellation policy. Confirm the deposit (typical: 10–25% of total). If the company won’t share the contract until you’ve signed, walk away.
“What’s your honest assessment of the timeline?”
A good senior-relocation specialist will sometimes recommend NOT moving in the timeline you proposed — too rushed, wrong season, recommend pushing 3 weeks. A specialist looking for the sale will agree to whatever you ask. The first one is the one you want.
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