Decided to hire professionals to move you? Recommendations from friends, relatives and neighbors are a good way to find the right moving company. Here are a few items to keep in mind when you interview prospective movers:

• Only deal with licensed companies. Ask the representative to demonstrate that it carries worker’s compensation insurance to protect the company and its customers.

• Ask about the firm’s experience and client list. Call a few clients to verify references.

• Ask the movers if they are members of any local or national moving trade associations. If so, contact the associations for further information.

• Check the companies out with the Better Business Bureau and the American Moving and Storage Association to see if they have information on them.

• Get a written estimate, and determine whether it’s binding or non-binding. The most accurate way to estimate your moving costs is to get an in-home, visual assessment from the mover. Decide whether you want full service (they pack, unpack and move everything) or self-service (you pack and unpack everything and they move it).

• When you’re ready to sign the contract, insist on a guaranteed price in writing that includes guaranteed pick-up and delivery dates. The contract should include a guarantee of how many hours the job will take, allowing an overrun of no more than 10 percent.