Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the moving process include:
How do I plan and prepare for my move?
- Make a list of items to move, and prioritize items that need special care
- Research different moving options (DIY, professional movers, rental trucks, etc.)
- Book a reputable moving company or rent a truck well in advance
- Declutter and donate items you don't need
- Obtain necessary supplies for packing
- Label boxes clearly and keep a list of items in each box
- Confirm arrangements for utilities and services at your new location
How do I find a reputable and reliable moving company?
- Check online reviews and ratings from multiple sources
- Get references from friends, family, or real estate agents
- Ask for detailed quotes and compare them
- Confirm their licensing and insurance information
- Verify their experience and track record
What are the costs associated with moving?
- Moving truck rental or professional moving services
- Packing supplies and materials
- Insurance for your belongings during the move
- Transportation costs (fuel, tolls, etc.)
- Lodging and meals during the move
- Storage fees, if needed
How do I ensure my belongings are packed and transported safely?
- Pack items securely and safely in appropriate boxes or containers
- Label boxes clearly, including fragile items
- Disassemble large items like beds and desks
- Keep valuable items with you, rather than with the movers
What should I do if something goes wrong during the move?
- Document any pre-existing damages to your belongings and the condition of your current and new homes
- Keep important documents and valuables with you
- Be present during the move, or have a trusted friend or family member present
- Keep contact information for the moving company easily accessible
- If something goes wrong, communicate with the moving company promptly and follow up to resolve the issue.
Common questions about moving company policies and procedures include:
What services do moving companies typically offer?
- Packing and unpacking services
- Loading and unloading of belongings onto the moving truck
- Transportation of belongings to the new location
- Storage solutions, if needed
- Assembly and disassembly of large furniture
- Special handling of delicate or valuable items
How do I know if a moving company is licensed and insured?
- Confirm that the company is licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) by searching the FMCSA's database
- Check if the company has insurance for the protection of your belongings during the move
- Verify insurance coverage with the moving company's insurance provider
What kind of estimates do moving companies provide, and how accurate are they?
- In-home estimates, where the company sends a representative to assess the volume of belongings to be moved
- Virtual estimates, where the customer provides a list and photos of items to be moved
- Binding estimates, which are guaranteed prices for the move
- Non-binding estimates, which are based on the actual weight of the belongings and final charges can be higher than the estimate
How do I file a claim if my belongings are damaged during the move?
- Take photos of the damaged items before and after the move
- Report any damage to the moving company immediately
- Keep all receipts and documentation of the damaged items
- File a claim with the moving company's insurance provider
- Follow up on the claim and keep a record of all communication
