When hiring a moving company:
- Get three written estimates before hiring an interstate moving company.
- Verify that the interstate moving company is properly licensed and insured.
- Ask for references from the mover and call them to verify their accuracy.
- Read and understand all estimates and contracts before signing.
- Make certain to receive and read the booklet: “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.”
- Verify that the moving company has a neutral dispute resolution program.
- Understand that an estimate is only valid for the services and number of items to be moved as described in writing. If, on the day of the move you add additional items to be moved or require additional services your price will increase. Most estimates are not guaranteed.
- Have a clear understanding of the pick-up and delivery window. Understand that, in most cases, delivery is not a guaranteed date.
- Purchase full replacement value insurance to protect your property.
- Declare and insure all items of extraordinary value.
Questions to ask your estimator:
- Does the company have active US DOT and ICC/MC license numbers?
- Will the estimate be binding or non-binding?
- Will final charges be based upon weight or cubic feet?
- Will the company provide references from satisfied customers?
- What are the charges for packing services?
- What are the charges for “full coverage insurance,” and what is covered?
- Which neutral arbitration program does the company participate in?
- Is the estimate provided in writing and does it list all services ordered?
- Does the company charge extra for stairs, long carry, shuttle, storage, appliance serving, etc?
- Are the pickup or delivery dates guaranteed?
- What form of payment is accepted at delivery?
- How long after delivery do I have to file a claim for damages?
Checklist: On the day of the move:
- Carefully read and understand all documents before signing. Estimates must be completed, approved by you, and signed before the moving company begins any work.
- Have all property professionally packed.
- Be present at the pickup, supervise the movers’ work and stay until all packing and loading is finished.
- Accompany the movers as they inventory your household goods, and resolve any questions regarding the condition of materials being moved.
- Make sure to receive and keep copies of all the shipping documents until the goods are delivered, the charges are paid, and any claims are settled.
- Before the movers leave take one final look throughout the house to make certain nothing has been left behind.
Checklist: On the delivery day:
- Be prepared and available to supervise unloading and unpacking of your goods.
- According to federal law, pay the mover in the form of payment agreed upon as written on your contract before your goods are unloaded.
- Direct the movers on where to unload and place the items in your home.
- Inspect all property for damage or missing items and document damages in writing.
- Note on the inventory logs all boxes or other items that are damaged or missing.