Your top 10 questions for movers in Addis Ababa answered

First calls to movers should clarify scope, pricing, and risk—before deposit. Below are ten questions clients ask most, with straight answers that protect schedules and furniture.

1. How do you price: hourly, fixed, or hybrid?

Many reputable firms blend survey-based fixed totals for local moves with hourly segments when access is uncertain. Ask what triggers overtime, standby, and fuel surcharges.

2. What is included in the quote?

Blankets, stretch wrap, floor protection, and a standard crew size should be explicit. If lifts, long carries, or night windows cost extra, that belongs in writing—not surprise voice notes.

3. Do you insure goods in transit?

Ask for policy type, limits, and exclusions. High-value items may need declared-value riders; email your broker if unsure.

4. How many crew members will arrive?

Team size should match volume and stairs. Under-crewing saves the vendor minutes and costs you hours—push for realistic labor.

5. Can you disassemble and reassemble beds?

Confirm tools, hardware bagging practice, and whether wardrobes with complex fittings cost extra. Photo cable runs before unplugging entertainment units.

6. How do you handle elevators and compounds?

Pros will ask about freight bookings, gate manifests, and COI requirements before move day. Silence here is a red flag.

7. What if traffic or security delays us?

Ethical movers define standby start times and rounding in the contract. Vague answers invite invoice fights.

8. May I ride in the truck?

Policies vary; liability and insurance often prohibit passenger seating in cargo areas. Clarify transport for elders or children separately.

9. How should I pack fragile items?

Professionals prefer double-walled dish packs, filled voids, and labeled tops. If you self-pack, movers may limit breakage liability—ask before you tape.

10. What payment methods and deposit rules apply?

Understand deposit percentage, balance timing, and receipt practice. Snap completed paperwork photos the day-of.

Bonus: three questions movers should ask you

• Exact address, gate rules, and contact mobiles.
• Photos of stairs, turns, and parking bans.
• Inventory of oversized or fragile pieces.

Hidden question: what happens if it rains?

Ask about matting, covered carry plans, and whether crews pause for lightning near cranes—answers reveal professionalism.

Hidden question: who supervises on site?

Named field lead mobile beats anonymous call centers when gates stall.

Hidden question: cancellation windows?

Understand refund or reschedule rules before paying deposit—weather and family emergencies happen.

Conclusion

Great moves start with boring clarity: written scope, honest labor counts, insurance truth, and delay math everyone signs. Ask the ten up front—your sofa and your deposit will thank you.