Everyone makes mistakes and sometimes these mistakes are no big deal. That’s not often the case when hiring the wrong moving company. Unless you’re okay with damaged or missing belongings, low-quality service, or unfair prices—and you’re probably not—then take the time to question prospective movers.

Below are 7 key questions to ask residential movers before you hire them, just to make sure that you’re getting the service you deserve.

1. How many years of experience does your company have?

If a moving company has been around for a decade or more, then chances are good that they offer dependable service. You might find a dedicated newcomer that’s eager to build a solid reputation, but unless they check off on the accolades below, it’s probably not worth the risk.

2. What can you tell me about your facility?

A reliable mover will be eager to tell you about their facility. They might mention their moving fleet, storage options, or other resources that they offer. Now is also a good time to learn about their capabilities to see if they are a good match for your moving needs.

3. Do you have professional affiliations and accolades?

Established movers with a good reputation will have gained some accolades of their success. This might include affiliation with professional moving associations, Better Business Bureau accreditation, customer service awards, and more. The more your prospective mover has to show for their quality service, the better.

4. What do your previous customers say about your service?

One way to vet prospective moving companies is to take a look at past customer reviews. Some movers provide reviews and testimonials on their website, while others might lead you to online review pages. On a related note, many movers claim to have a strong client base. Don’t just take their word for it; ask for proof or go online and do some quick research yourself.

5. Can you explain the steps you take to protect my property?

You deserve to know how your belongings are going to be handled during the move, and a quality mover will be able to answer this question easily. For example, they might mention use of quality packing materials, furniture padding and wrapping, and protection of your doors and floors. This is also a great time to learn about specialized moving options for your fragile and high-value items.

6. What is your claims process in the event items get damaged?

Accidents happen, even when you hire an expert moving company. However, an honest mover will have policies for handling these unfortunate mishaps. Ask about valuation protection options and take note of whether they provide full-value reimbursement or basic protection that’s based on the weight of the items being shipped.

7. How is the cost of my move calculated?

You probably want to know how much your move is going to cost, and you might want to shop around for the best deal. Knowing how each mover prices their services will help you get an accurate understanding of your options. For example, many movers price long-distance moves and local moves differently, and you could face added charges for special moving services and scenarios that require extra time and resources from the moving company.

You have a lot to think about when planning a move, but with the right long-distance movers, you can enjoy a simpler and more cost-effective experience. If the mover you consider provides acceptable answers to the questions above, then you’re probably making a good choice!