For Buyers

Moving to a new home can be an exciting journey. Whether you’re changing cities or neighborhoods, a move is not only a change of scenery, it’s the start of a new chapter in life. By finding the right moving service and having a good—though flexible—moving plan, most of the common moving headaches can be easily avoided.

START PLANNING YOUR MOVE

Finding the best mover for your particular needs and at the right price involves a simple evaluation of your needs. From planning your move, to storing your things, to packing and unpacking, to decorating and organizing your belongings in your new home, you can choose the extent of services you require and have them tailored to suit your moving budget. Before you contact the moving company for an estimate, consider these packing tips:

• Choose and evaluate what goods are moving with you
• Group items into three categories: Keep, Donate, Throw Away
• Label your belongings according to their new room destination
• Create copies of your new home floor plan and provide it for the movers
• Keep boxes under 50 pounds to reduce strain
• Label boxes by approximate weight for ease of loading

FINDING YOUR MOVING COMPANY

With dozens of companies to choose from, finding the right one can be tough. One of the best ways to find a reputable company is to get a great referral.

SOURCES FOR MOVING COMPANY REFERRALS

• Family, Friends, and Co-workers who have recently moved
• Your Real Estate Professional
• Relocation Agent (relocating for work)
• American Moving and Storage Association website: www.Moving.org
• Better Business Bureau: www.BBB.org

COMPARING MOVERS

When you compare price and service estimates from several moving companies, you will find that estimates are based on the weight of your household items, the distance they will be moved, and the amount of packing and other services you will require. Be sure to show the estimator every single item that will be moved. Find out if the mover accepts credit cards or third-party payments from your company, or whether the mover operates by cash only. Before you enter into a contract with a moving company, be sure that you clearly understand the following items:

• Rates and charges that apply
• Mover’s Liability
• Pick-up and Delivery Schedules
• Claims Protection
• Estimate of their costs
• Estimate of the value of your belongings

All moving companies should give you a copy of a consumer booklet entitled “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” and information regarding the mover’s participation in a Dispute Settlement Program. The booklet outlines how to handle disputes that may arise concerning loss or damage on household good shipments.

BE PREPARED

Even in the most well-planned moves, something can happen. Insurance is crucial. Check with your homeowner’s insurance carrier about coverage for your belongings while moving. Your mover will provide either released value insurance (about $0.60 per pound of goods lost or damaged, according to NAVL.com) or full replacement value, which you must sign for a bill of lading.

If you are not sure how to estimate the value of your belongings for insurance purposes, your insurance carrier may provide suggestions, such as $10,000 per room, or half the value of the new home. Items of special value such as heirlooms, paintings, or collectibles can be insured under separate riders. In the event of damage to an item, file a claim immediately. Be sure to save the packing materials to show the adjuster, should there be any problems.