Moving Preparation

Moving to a new home can be an exciting but stressful journey. By finding the right movers and having a good, though flexible, moving plan, most of the common moving headaches can be easily avoided.

Start planning

Finding the best mover for you at the right price involves a simple evaluation of your needs. Moving companies provide a wide range of services, from planning your move, storing your things, packing and unpacking, to decorating and organizing your belongings in your new home. You can choose which services you want and have them tailored to suit your budget.

Compare movers

When you compare price and service estimates from several 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 item that will be moved. Estimates should be done in person and include a clear explanation of rates and charges that will apply, the mover's liability for your belongings, pick-up and delivery schedules, and claims protection.

If you are moving interstate, you should read and understand all of the information you will receive. In addition to brochures explaining their various services, moving companies should give you a copy of a consumer booklet titled "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" and information regarding the mover's participation in a Dispute Settlement Program. Distribution of the consumer booklet and the requirement that movers must offer shippers neutral arbitration as a means of settling disputes that may arise concerning loss or damage on household goods shipments are requirements of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Be prepared

Even in the most well-planned moves, something unexpected may happen. In those instances, insurance is crucial. Check with your homeowner's insurance provider 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 on your bill of lading. If you are not sure how to estimate the value of your belongings for insurance purposes, your insurance carrier can help. 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 to the adjuster, should there be any problems.

Packing up and moving on

Once the time has come to start packing and organizing, here are some tips to make the process smooth:

• Start by packing the things you use most infrequently.

• Pare down items that have accumulated over time by group them into 3 categories Keep, Donate, or Throw Away.

• Create an inventory sheet of valuables and a list of which boxes they were packed in.

• Label your boxes according to the rooms where they'll be moved - bedroom #2, 1st floor bath, etc. Consider using different colored stickers/tape for each room.

• Provide your movers with copies of the floorplan of your new home, so they can move more efficiently without having

  to stop and ask you where things go.

• Try to keep boxes under 50 lbs. whenever possible, put heavier items in smaller boxes to reduce bulkiness, and place

  lighter items in larger boxes.

• Dispose of items that can't be moved, like flammable liquids, cleaning fluids, etc. Prepare your mower by emptying the

  fuel and recycle your propane grill tanks.

• Snap a photo of the back of electronic devices so you know which wires to attach when setting them up in your new home.

• Pack an overnight bag with moving day essentials, including toiletries, clothes, medications, and charger cords.