Make sure your moving experience goes smoothly by asking your potential mover some simple questions

Not counting my student days, I’ve moved five times. And each move’s been harder and harder to pull off.

Recently, as I began to stare down yet another move—our family’s grown and we could use a bigger house—I admitted what I’ve known for a while: It’s time to call in the pros.

But could I hire a mover without breaking the bank?

The answer, happily, is yes. Granted, it’s a local move, not cross-country, but I found that hiring a professional can be affordable—just be sure to get clear answers to the following questions.

1. How do you charge your fees? Almost all movers charge by the hour, and most require a minimum (often four hours). That seems fair to me. But some start charging the second they leave their headquarters, so you’re paying for travel time, not move time. Find out if your movers start charging when they arrive at your home or when they leave their office.
2. Will you provide all the equipment? Make sure you’re clear on who will bring the moving supplies (e.g., moving pads, dollies, etc.). My mover will bring company supplies at no extra charge and made sure to advertise that fact. If you don’t see it in writing on a mover’s website or brochures, then ask.
3. Are you insured? Verify that the mover has insurance. When a professional mover is insured, they’ll provide some level of compensation if they damage anything during the move. That’s great—after all, when you move yourself, you’re on the hook if you break or ruin anything. Keep in mind, though, that movers may carry different amounts of coverage, so be sure to get the details on just how much protection they offer. Similarly, before you sign anything, ask to see your contract a day or two before you put pen to paper. And, of course, check on the mover’s rep with the Better Business Bureau®, Angie’s List®, and other reputable consumer advocates.

I’m already looking forward to watching the pros move my stuff almost as much as I’m looking forward to fewer aches and pains.

One last note: If you’re on the move this spring, be sure to request your free, Flo-inspired moving box labels. Again, they’re free, and they’ll come in handy whether or not you hire movers or decide to brave it on your own.

This article was written by Mark Nedved and was originally posted on the Progressive blog. It can be seen here.