Moving Checklist
Stay Organized With Our Moving Checklist
Whether you’re just moving across the street or across the country, there are lots of things to keep track of when you’re relocating your life. Remember, it is always better to prepare in advance rather than show up to your new home with the bare minimum of things packed. You may not wish to list everything you want but just give an idea of how much stuff you need and how many boxes you can fit in the car. This checklist provides smart moving tips to help you stay focused and in control.
- Ask for recommendations from neighbors, friends, and relatives regarding the mover and broker.
- Obtain estimates from at least three movers or brokers and compare cost and all other services to be provided by the companies.
- Check to determine whether the interstate mover and broker is registered with FMCSA and has a U.S. DOT number.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau regarding the mover and broker.
- Obtain the booklet Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move from the mover and broker.
- Find out what the mover's responsibilities are for damages that may occur to your belongings.
- Ask if the mover and broker have a dispute settlement program.
- Find out how and when pickup and delivery of your household goods will occur.
- Ask the mover and broker how they can be contacted before the move, during the move, and after the move.
- Adequately insure your belongings.
- Carefully read the information on the estimate, bill of lading, inventory, and all other completed documents before you sign them.
- Accompany the movers as they inventory your household goods and resolve any questions regarding the condition of materials being moved.
- Inform the driver and the moving company of how you can be reached during the move.
- Be present to answer questions and give directions to the movers. Stay until they finish.
- Give the driver directions to your new house.
- Before the moving van leaves, take one final look throughout the house to make certain nothing has been left behind.
- Keep the bill of lading until your goods are delivered, the charges are paid, and any claims are settled.
- Pay the driver, according to the terms of your written binding or non- binding estimate, before your goods are unloaded.
- Be present to answer any questions and give directions.
- Supervise unloading and unpacking of your goods.
- Note on the inventory list all boxes or items that are damaged or missing before you sign any documents.