WhiteFence Moving Checklist

Choosing a Mover

Knowing what to ask and when to ask it are the keys to a successful moving estimate. Moving companies are regulated at both the state and federal levels, meaning you have built-in protections in place to prevent potential scams, as well as help you decide which moving company is most qualified to work for you. Here is how you separate the good from the bad:

• Check out the company with your local Better Business Bureau.
• Ask for a copy of the company´s "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move." The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires moving companies to provide you with a copy of "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move," as well as any information pertaining to whether they participate in a dispute settling program. Reputable companies cannot operate legally without at least meeting these guidelines.
• Whether a binding or non-binding estimate, always ask for a copy of all charges and services offered in writing.
• Ask for an explanation of your insurance options.
• Ask the mover to outline fees for packing, vehicle transport, storage and any additional services.
• The bill of lading is the official contract between you and the mover, and the mover is required by law to present a bill of lading for each transport. KEEP A COPY with you at all times, and be sure to obtain the bill of lading before movers transport your belongings.

Avoid Moving Scams

Here are some suggestions to avoid being scammed when hiring a mover.

• Never take an estimate based on cubic feet. IT IS ILLEGAL. Scammers offer low bids to customers then surprise them with a much higher bill upon delivery, often threatening to hold their belongings until paid in full.
• Use the Better Business Bureau to determine if the company has unresolved or outstanding complaints.
• Reputable companies will not give an estimate without visiting your home in person.
• Never work with a contractor. If a moving company can quote you, they can load and transport you as well.
• Write down all contact information, including asking for their Motor Carrier license numbers.
• Keep a written record of everything throughout the moving process.

Getting Moving Insurance

How important is having your possessions insured? Getting insurance on your valuables is an essential piece of moving safely. If you opt to insure your belongings based on declared value, your articles will be insured based on their weight. This may be the best option for some people, but can be inaccurate if you have lots of small light items that are worth a great deal of money, like artwork, collectables, etc. If you fall into the latter category, it would be safer to get full replacement insurance because it is usually based on coverage of the entire replacement value of your items.