Moving

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Moving from one block to the next can sometimes cause more headaches than moving from one state to another, if you select the wrong moving company. Companies doing interstate business must have Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) certification. Those licensed to do business locally must be certified by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). If you do business with a company that has no license, you assume a lot of risk.

Most places providing information about moving companies in your area will refrain from making recommendations, so you will need to be very careful when selecting a mover. Try to get a personal referral/recommendation. If that is not possible, check the following before you make your choice:

• Make sure the mover is LICENSED and can, upon request, provide you with a copy of its Public Utility Commission (PUC) certificate.
• Make sure the mover carries INSURANCE and you understand the company liability protection plan. If something is lost or damaged, you want it replaced or repaired to the limits of their insurance liability coverage.
• Ask to be provided with a WRITTEN ESTIMATE. Call several movers, giving them detailed information of what you need moved and to where, and ask for written estimates. If possible, before the move begins, you should obtain a written agreement "not to exceed a certain price."

While price should be an important consideration, do not select a mover just because the price is low. You may end up paying for more than you have bargained. Be wary of flyers advertising very "cheap" prices. Clean, safe vans/trucks, insurance protection, and qualified workers cost money. If a price is far below the average price of other movers, be extra careful.

Self-Move

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Remember that an insurance policy is a legal contract that defines the duties and responsibilities of both the insurance company and the consumer. Read your policy so you know what coverage it provides and what you should do if you have a loss. Make an inventory of the contents of your home. Include furniture and major personal belongings and note prices and dates of purchase, where possible. Keep store receipts and photographs, if possible. It is a good idea to keep a copy of the inventory and photographs in a safe place, away from home.

Note: This is not a complete list of companies that offer moving services. For more information, please use the Yellow Pages. Some of these companies offer storage facilities, some just moving services. The inclusion of these companies on the list does not represent an endorsement.

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Last modified: 2012-11-02 13:09:21