Moving Tips

4,000 household moving complaints are files annually with the Department of Transportation. The complaints range from loss and damage to overcharging. Here are five tips to make your move go as smoothly as possible.

Plan Ahead

You've probably heard that moving is one of the most stressful events in a person's life. But if you plan ahead, you can ease the burden. The American Moving & Storage Association suggests making arrangements for your next move at least four to six weeks ahead of time.

If you're planning a move and haven't made arrangements yet, you'll want to get right on it. Keep in mind; most families want to get it over with while school is out. Therefore from May to September movers are extremely busy. If you are flexible with your moving schedule you may want to wait until school is back in session. Many movers actually lower their prices between the months of October and April.

Choose Carefully

Be careful when picking a moving company. Many moving companies scam unsuspecting consumers with slick Web sites and low-ball offers.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, consumers' rights and responsibilities are outlined in a new law that applies to all interstate moves. The FMCSA requires all movers to provide written estimates, deliver goods when promised and publish ads with their name and Transportation number,

When trying to find a reputable mover talk with friends, family or neighbors. You can also contact the Better Business Bureau or log onto www.moving .org for a list of AMSA members.

Go to fmcsa.dot.saft to see if your mover is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Get Estimates

If possible you want to try to avoid getting estimates over the phone of over the Internet. Try to have an in-home survey of all your items in order to receive an accurate estimate.

If you are fortunate to get an in-home estimate, make sure to show the estimator every item to be moved. The estimator will also want to check for any barriers (stairs, elevators, etc.)

Try to get estimates from at least three different companies so you can compare prices. The estimate should always be free and in writing.

The cost of an interstate move is usually determined on the weight of your belongings and on the distance shipped. Be aware, there may be additional costs for material and packing services.

Most movers offer two types of estimates: binding and non-binding. If you are certain that you know exactly what is being moved, go with a binding estimate. Non-binding estimates are not guaranteed and is an approximation of the cost based on the estimator's survey.

Lastly, never sign blank paperwork or documents you don't understand.

Protect Your Belongings

Usually, your mover is liable for loss or damage that occurs during a move; however, there are different levels of liability. Released value is the most economical form of protection. There is no additional cost for this type of coverage, but you don't get back the full value of your damaged item. Usually the mover assumes only 60 cents per pound, per article.

Full value protection, is a more expensive and comprehensive plan. Items that are covered with full value protection are either repaired, replaced or there is a cash settlement.

When your delivery arrives, thoroughly inspect you items in the presence of the movers. If you find any damaged or missing goods, ask the mover for a company claim form. This form must be submitted within 9 months of delivery.

For more information on claims visit fmcsa.dot.gov.

The Big Day

On moving day you'll feel lots of pressure. The best thing to do is stop, and take a deep breath. Here are some steps to ensure a successful move.
Be present the day of the move. This way you can keep inventory of your items and answer any of the movers concerns. Your presence will ensure the proper handling of your items.

Carefully read over all your documents. The bill of lading is the most important document. This is a contract between you and the mover. The driver will give you a copy of the bill of lading at the time of loading. Keep it in a safe place.

Ask your mover how he can be contacted along the way. You'll want to stay in touch with your mover.