Selecting a Mover

Deciding on whom to have move your possessions can be difficult. This is not the time to be shy. It is very important that you fully understand the services the moving company offers and the rate at which those services can be provided.

Below are 10 questions for selecting a moving company as you shop for the perfect fit.

• CHOOSING THE RIGHT MOVER
  will be licensed and insured
  will have an established place of business for at least three years
  visit a prospective mover's facility to see if he can serve you properly

• HOW YOU ARE CHARGED FOR PACKING
  based on the number of boxes packed by the mover
  this is the most variable portion of your cost of moving
  have a concise list of what you want packed
  gets you closer to an accurate packing estimate

• ITEMS YOU SHOULD NOT SHIP
  do not pack or ship certain items...
  FLAMMABLE items, propane tanks, liquid detergents, aerosol cans, etc.
  any items that may cause damage to your shipment
  could void insurance coverage if there is an unforeseen accident

• NOTICE TO BOOK A MOVER
  a mover can accommodate most moves if he has at least two weeks notice
  best if you have a firm date
  more time is preferable, particularly in the busy season (May to September)
  with less notice, call before agreeing to a firm date

• PAYING FOR YOUR MOVE
  have cash, a credit card, or a certified check to pay the driver
  personal checks are not an acceptable form of payment

• PROTECTING AGAINST DAMAGE
  movers generally do not assume responsibility in several situations...
  articles of extraordinary value not listed on the bill of lading prior to moving
  loss of documents not listed on the bill of lading prior to moving
  breakage of fragile items unless packed and unpacked by the mover
  breakage unless visible exterior damage documented on delivery
  items previously broken, repaired, or glued
  mechanical operating condition of appliances and electronics
  missing items not specifically inventoried and documented on delivery
  damage to items not documented on delivery

• SUBMITTING A DAMAGE CLAIM
  you have nine months to file a claim
  should document damage on delivery and file immediately
  most likely to receive an equitable settlement