We’ve all heard the horror stories about movers that didn’t deliver (literally) what they’d promised, or the priceless vase from Great-Aunt Edna that got broken in a move. Here are seven things to help you find the best mover that you can.
1. Identify only licensed, insured, & bonded moving companies.
Think about what you are moving. What is it worth to you to know that it will get to your new home safe and sound?
Licensed, insured, and bonded companies take the extra step to ensure that your things get to your new home, because they’re held responsible if they don’t.
2. Ask for estimates from 2-3 companies.
Shop and compare prices.
Invite a mover’s representative to inspect the contents of your home. They should be able to tell you how long the move will take, what it’ll cost, and the size of the truck you’ll need.
Long-distance moves can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000.
This is a large investment, treat it like you would any other – and shop around.
3. Be sure of what you’re buying.
Typically, movers charge by weight and mileage. If you can get a flat rate, you’ll probably be better off.
Get definite dates (in writing) of when the contents of your home will be picked up AND delivered.
4. Get extra liability protection.
Declare the value of the contents of your home with the mover before you move. Otherwise, your furnishings will be valued per pound as a lump sum.
The “Weight” Trap:
A truckload containing the contents of your home that weighs 3,000 pounds is only worth $3,000 if the coverage is $1/pound. Could you replace everything you own for that amount?
Heaven forbid that it should happen – but this is why declaring the value and adding extra protection are so important.
5. Stick around.
Stay with them as they inspect, pack, fill out the inventory, and weight the contents of your home.
The weight is particularly important because this is used to figure the final cost in most long-distance moves.
6. Call if movers are even ONE DAY late.
It doesn’t happen often, but drivers do get lost, accidents happen, and the longer the delay, the less likely your things will arrive in good condition.
7. Check first, then sign.
Tip: If you don’t have time to inspect every box, write: “approved subject to unpacking of boxes”.
Don’t sign anything until you see that it’s all there – and add a conditional note if you don’t have time (which you won’t) to inspect the condition of everything before the mover’s leave.
Use a simple phrase like, “approved subject to unpacking of boxes”.
Summary: Moving Day Checklist
- ✅ Verify: Ensure they are licensed, insured, & bonded.
- ✅ Compare: Get 2-3 estimates and ask for flat rates.
- ✅ Insure: Declare the full value (don’t accept by-the-pound coverage).
- ✅ Supervise: Watch the packing and weighing process.
- ✅ Sign Carefully: Add conditional notes to the receipt.
Treat your move like a major financial investment. A little oversight now prevents a lot of heartache (and broken vases) later.
Want early access to serious buyers?
If you’re going to be moving in the next six months, what you might not realize is that there are a significant number of buyers searching for homes like yours.
In fact, for every buyer actively viewing homes right now, there are 5-10 more about to begin their search, or eagerly waiting for the perfect property to come up.
If you’re interested in getting a head start on finding a buyer for your home, leave us some details below… We’ll see if we can find a match!
Want to know what your home is worth?
Before you put your house on the market, you need to find out how much it’s worth in today’s market, so you can make your plans based on the most current information available.
We can prepare a detailed Pin-Point Price Analysis for you that shows the most current market activity in your area for homes like yours, and we can recommend an optimal marketing price range that will give you the best odds of selling quickly – and for top dollar!