Finding and Using a Mover

Give yourself plenty of time to find a mover-ideally, 8 to 10 weeks before you move. The earlier the better, as movers are most in demand during the summer months, on weekends and at month-end. Use these guidelines for help with finding and choosing a reputable moving company.

• Get estimates from two or three movers. Know what services are and are not included. Ask for references and check them out. Ask the Better Business Bureau if claims have ever been made against them.
• Get an estimate in writing, not over the phone. A good mover will want to see your items and home to get a sense of what it will take to do the job right and give you an accurate estimate. Make sure the mover knows about artwork, antiques or especially large or heavy items to be moved.
• Advise your mover of any obstacles at your new home. How many stairs will the movers have to climb? Will they have to move furniture through tight turns? Is there convenient parking for the truck?
• Ensure that the contract is clear and precise. A mover's price quote will usually include three components: Packing, the actual moving of your items and unpacking at your new home. Choose the services you want and know precisely what they include. Be sure that everything is clearly written into the contract. Ask whether the price is firm or dependent on the actual number of boxes or weight of items moved. If the price is not firm, ask if they can write a "not to exceed" price on the contract for you.
• Ask if the moving company performs the whole job or subcontracts some of it. If they subcontract, find out what happens if the second company misplaces or breaks an item.
• Ask about insurance coverage. Does the moving company carry insurance? Does their insurance protect your property while in transit? What's the replacement value of your items, especially items you packed yourself? How do you make a claim? Contact your insurance company to see what coverage your current property policy provides.
• If items are going to be left overnight, find out how they will be stored. Will it be in a secure facility? Who owns the facility? If possible, inspect the facility.
• Find out who will prepare any special documentation, which a long-distance move may require.