Getting Down to Basics
Your moving company should offer you 2 kinds of coverage: the Basic Liability is usually 60 cents per pound, per item and should cost you nothing. The declared value coverage offers protection against losses and damages - the cost is based on the value of your shipment and may be subject to a minimum amount or deductible. Estimate the replacement value of your belongings in order to apply it to your contract. Your mover should provide you with detailed information about your coverage options. You might want to check your homeowners insurance policy for coverage during a move.
The charges on local moves are usually based on labor time while long distance moves are charged based on weight and distance, and regulated by the federal government. However, do your research and ask your moving company if there are extra charges for: Extra heavy items such as piano, safe or riding lawn mowers, disassembly or reassembly of furniture or other devices, a long walk from the truck to the house or stairs.
Always demand a written contract to include all the items to be moved, all costs and charges, delivery time, delivery address, phone numbers, insurance coverage and a total cost figure. Read the contract and the fine print before you sign. It might be a good idea to ask for a free on-site estimate before engaging with a moving company. get several online or phone estimates and 2-3 on-site estimates before you choose a mover. Make sure to mention all the items to be moved for an accurate assessment and price quotes, check for moving companies prices
You should be at home when the movers arrive to supervise their work. Accompany the moving crew foreman as he fills out the inventory sheet and supervise the loading process into the moving van. Before your sign the inventory list take a second walk throughout the house to make sure all items are accounted for.