Top Moving Tips
1. Know who you are dealing with: verify the identity of the removal company.
Pay attention to warning signs that something may not be right, such as:
No physical address or online telephone number, only a "Contact" function
You are priced at a very low price that seems too good to be true.
No federal motor vehicle number (MC) is displayed; or if there is an MC number, this does not match the website of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
We make verification easy for you with our ProMover program, so always choose from the companies that display the ProMover logo for interstate movements. Or if it is a relocation within your state, look for companies that are members of the relocation association in your state (where they exist). California has a ProMover-wide program for the entire state.
2. Receive at least three estimates written at home.
Be careful with the "guaranteed" estimates that are offered by telephone or online; Ask someone to come to your house instead. Some search engines also offer virtual home surveys that you can do yourself. Receive more than one written budget. If a moving company insists that you can give a "definitive" estimate by telephone without having to see your house and furniture, choose another moving company.
3. Check the qualifications of the company.
Visit Better Business Bureau or other consumer websites, such as Angie's list, and ask for referrals to family and friends.
4. Know your rights.
Your rights for an interstate movement are described in detail in two publications of the federal government, ready to move? and your rights and obligations when you move.
According to federal regulations, the removal company must provide you with a copy of the first booklet "Ready for relocation?" Give, with all written estimates for removals between states. If you agree to hire a removal company, you will receive a copy of your rights and responsibilities when you move, a second booklet with more information. You must also receive information about the arbitration program in which the removal company participates. Some moving companies now provide this important information electronically. Regardless of what form you are in, make sure you look at it and ask questions about everything you do not understand.
Most state governments regulate relocation companies that operate within that state, so for a local relocation, contact your state's relocation association or national consumer affairs office for more information.
5. Understand the level of responsibility,
or valuation, for which your removal company would be responsible in the event of loss or damage. The cost of total value protection must be legally included in estimates between states, so you must "opt out" to get the minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound, which we do not recommend. This is a different product than the traditional insurance, written by a third party.
6. Avoid large down payments.
Although some moving companies require a small 'good faith' down payment to keep a date (especially during the high summer season), be careful with carriers looking for large down payments or down payments for whatever reason.
7. Ensure that all agreements between you and your removal company are recorded in writing,
and receive a copy of everything you sign, especially the most important document, called bill of lading. Never sign a blank form.
8. Take valuables with you.
Cash, coins, jewelry, photos and important documents must be taken or sent in advance.
9. Be reachable by phone.
Ensure that the removal company has your mobile number and can contact you during your move in the event of an unforeseen change in your delivery schedule. Make sure you have the driver's full name, identification and truck number to enable fast and accurate communication.
10. Ask questions.
Ask if you don't understand something. The company is on the move and has its own terminology and can be complex. If you are not satisfied with the answers to your questions or if the removal company has doubts when you ask for clarification, contact another provider.
Pay attention to warning signs that something may not be right, such as:
No physical address or online telephone number, only a "Contact" function
You are priced at a very low price that seems too good to be true.
No federal motor vehicle number (MC) is displayed; or if there is an MC number, this does not match the website of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
We make verification easy for you with our ProMover program, so always choose from the companies that display the ProMover logo for interstate movements. Or if it is a relocation within your state, look for companies that are members of the relocation association in your state (where they exist). California has a ProMover-wide program for the entire state.
2. Receive at least three estimates written at home.
Be careful with the "guaranteed" estimates that are offered by telephone or online; Ask someone to come to your house instead. Some search engines also offer virtual home surveys that you can do yourself. Receive more than one written budget. If a moving company insists that you can give a "definitive" estimate by telephone without having to see your house and furniture, choose another moving company.
3. Check the qualifications of the company.
Visit Better Business Bureau or other consumer websites, such as Angie's list, and ask for referrals to family and friends.
4. Know your rights.
Your rights for an interstate movement are described in detail in two publications of the federal government, ready to move? and your rights and obligations when you move.
According to federal regulations, the removal company must provide you with a copy of the first booklet "Ready for relocation?" Give, with all written estimates for removals between states. If you agree to hire a removal company, you will receive a copy of your rights and responsibilities when you move, a second booklet with more information. You must also receive information about the arbitration program in which the removal company participates. Some moving companies now provide this important information electronically. Regardless of what form you are in, make sure you look at it and ask questions about everything you do not understand.
Most state governments regulate relocation companies that operate within that state, so for a local relocation, contact your state's relocation association or national consumer affairs office for more information.
5. Understand the level of responsibility,
or valuation, for which your removal company would be responsible in the event of loss or damage. The cost of total value protection must be legally included in estimates between states, so you must "opt out" to get the minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound, which we do not recommend. This is a different product than the traditional insurance, written by a third party.
6. Avoid large down payments.
Although some moving companies require a small 'good faith' down payment to keep a date (especially during the high summer season), be careful with carriers looking for large down payments or down payments for whatever reason.
7. Ensure that all agreements between you and your removal company are recorded in writing,
and receive a copy of everything you sign, especially the most important document, called bill of lading. Never sign a blank form.
8. Take valuables with you.
Cash, coins, jewelry, photos and important documents must be taken or sent in advance.
9. Be reachable by phone.
Ensure that the removal company has your mobile number and can contact you during your move in the event of an unforeseen change in your delivery schedule. Make sure you have the driver's full name, identification and truck number to enable fast and accurate communication.
10. Ask questions.
Ask if you don't understand something. The company is on the move and has its own terminology and can be complex. If you are not satisfied with the answers to your questions or if the removal company has doubts when you ask for clarification, contact another provider.
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