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YOUR MOVE’S MOST IMPORTANT STEPS

The most important first step is PLAN AHEAD. The moving process can have many pitfalls. Planning ahead will minimize them and help keep you cool with confidence.

Yes, the unexpected will occur, but let‘s be ready for most of them. For example, scratches and other damages will probably happen. When you plan ahead, you can anticipate and be sure to determine how the mover will cover any problems. You cannot prevent every surprise, you can prevent most surprises with some preparation and fore-thought. And if you have found and hired professional movers, it could save you from making some expensive mistakes.

Here are some planning tips for you to check in advance:

1. Inquire about the moving company’s on time record and ask for references. Call those references. Do you have any friends who have used this mover? Your friends can be one of your best sources. Word of mouth is almost always reliable.

2. Check with the local Better Business Bureau for consumer complaints.

3. Verify the moving company's licensure with the US DOT, State DOT, or ICC.

4. Moving companies are limited by law as to how much they can protect you (liability) for lost or damaged goods. Check your existing homeowners insurance policy to cover potential damage or loss. Can it be used as supplemental coverage ? Transit insurance may be a good supplemental coverage.

5. Take the time to document an inventory of your belongings before packing.

Make sure the movers have enough information to provide you an accurate quote:

6. How many stairs there are at your old home or apartment. How many in the new?

7. Does your street have physical restrictions? Are there low-hanging utility wires or tree branches in your current and new neighborhood? Are there legal weight and size restrictions to access your old and new residence?

8. Do you have any very heavy articles? Do you need to move a piano, for example?

9. How many pictures need to be specially wrapped?

10. Do you have any past moving documents that proved to be accurate in their estimates of weight? Number of packing boxes used? Did you add or get rid of articles since your last move? If you feel you got a “deal” on your last move, don’t be afraid to share that information.

Make sure any commitments are included in the contract.

11. Get a commitment guarantee in writing for the maximum hours the move should take.

12. Check that the contract clearly includes all charges and important dates: pickup, packing, load time, delivery date, etc.

13. Identify the move “supervisor”. He is usually the driver. How long has he been driving? How long has he been in the moving business? Who is the an office move coordinator? Identify who is the person responsible for making your move

14. You must sign the bill of lading to maintain insurance coverage of your property while in their possession. Only leave your old home after the movers have loaded their truck and have departed for your new home. Be sure to arrive at your new home well in advance of the movers’ arrival.

Any self-packing? Help the movers, and you’ll help yourself.

15. Have you done any packing yourself? Did you use strong boxes? Those designated as packing and moving boxes are added insurance for you.

16. Did you use plenty of packing material to cushion the contents? Is newspaper adequate cushion for the packed contents? Did you make sure the contents are separated from each other by the packing material and do not touch each other? If you move the packing box and it “clinks”, repacking correctly is probably needed.

17. As you expect your professional movers to care for you and your possessions, so you should demonstrate your thoughtfulness to them. When the movers arrive, (morning is always best) have fresh, hot coffee ready for them. When lunchtime arrives, buying pizzas or burgers and soft drinks will go a long way toward maintaining that caring attitude we need for a good move. Offer them bottled water throughout the day.

18. Observe their back and forth movements to the truck and be ready to answer any of their questions. Speak with them regarding any concerns. Communication is vital. Do you know why they are doing certain things? Don’t be afraid to ask If you feel uncomfortable about something, let them know immediately. However, don’t get in the way. Let them do the work. Let the supervisor manage your move.

19. While they are expending all that energy to complete your move: smile, encourage, and demonstrate confidence and cooperation. Show them your positive attitude and it will keep everyone upbeat for the tasks of the day.

Some things you should do for and by yourself

20. Important documents such as wills, deeds, photographs, home videos, jewelry, computers, artwork, or other items you would consider to be irreplaceable should probably be moved to your new home by you personally.

21. If you rent, don’t jeopardize your deposit. Fill any holes left in the walls. Vacuum and clean up after everyone has left. It’s easy without furniture. Can you do any paint touchups? Try to make the old homestead look as clean as possible.

Have any tips from your last move you’d like to share? We’ll maintain confidentiality, of course, and you’ll be helping other folks from your move experiences.