Now's the time you wonder how you have managed to accumulate so much stuff.
Moving the contents of your home can be a daunting task and hiring a reputable mover can
be overwhelming and frightening. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's web site
offers great information, so we've included that in our checklist. You have a million
things to do, but take your time and do your homework when hiring the company that will be
relocating your cherished possessions. This checklist is just the thing to get you moving
in the right direction.
Read the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration web site; take the information you have obtain from the moving company and check its credentials TIP: FMCSA web site lists movers, complaints, tips to protect yourself, your rights and other helpful information
Check license and registration requirements; do they have the required licenses and registrations TIP: Obtain the company's U.S. Department of Transportation and motor carrier license
Ask if the company is a member of the American Moving and Storage Association or other associations you can check with on-line or by phone
Ask how long the company has been in business
Contact the Better Business Bureau for local companies
Obtain recommendation from friends, family or human resource departments of local companies who use moving companies to relocate personnel
Obtain and check references
Interstate movers are required to provide you with "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" booklet; read this information
Check the company's vehicles: are the trucks well maintained and identified with the company name
Check insurance requirements; does the company carry the correct coverages with a reputable insurance company
Will your personal information be safe and secure; what are the company's procedures
Discuss how specialty items will be handled (pianos, appliances, art, etc.)
Will your possessions remain on the truck or off-loaded to a storage facility and then reloaded for delivery
Have antiques and collectibles appraised if required for reimbursement if damaged or lost
Show the estimator everything that is to be moved; remember attics and closets
Obtain a written, signed and binding price from movers; understand how your cost is calculated and if your cost could vary from this quote. If you don't agree, find another company.
Ask how many packers and loaders will be supplied
Are the packers and loaders full time employees, part-time or contracted help
Obtain list of illegal items for movers to transport; make other arrangements for these items
Read and understand all paperwork before signing
Understand payment rules and types accepted (don't agree to cash)
Where will truck be parking for loading and unloading (will you need a special permit)
Make sure you insure your items while they are being packed, loaded and transported; contact your insurance company
Understand the type of insurance available to you by the mover for loss or damage.
Obtain name and cell phone number of person to call if problems arise during move; test it out in advance
Ask about the claims process for lost or damaged items
Compare bids; if prices are significantly different, find out why
Confirm the date and details of the move with the company prior to the move date
