Moving Tips and FAQs

Tools you will want at your disposal include ratchet straps, a rope, a disc lock, and any wheeled equipment (like a dolly) that can make transporting and loading items easier. A dolly or hand cart will make moving large furniture much easier. Consider using a wagon to transport multiple boxes at once. If you live in an apartment where you’re going to have to contend with a frequently used elevator, these tools will be especially helpful in saving time and reducing the number of trips back and forth.

Yes. Whether you provide your own boxes or use the company’s, once a box is closed up and ready to go, make sure you add a brief label to make the unpacking part much easier.

Packing perishable, dangerous, or hazardous items in your household goods without informing your mover is not advisable. Common items like nail polish remover, paint, and automotive products can affect the mover’s liability in case of an incident. Make sure you’re aware of which items are on the hazardous materials list. Additionally, if you pack your own boxes and any items are damaged, it may be harder to make a claim against the mover for those boxes.

These items should be specifically pointed out by you and packed meticulously. Using bubble wrap, packing paper and foam peanuts helps ensure the item(s) do not get damaged during the move. Items that could not go into a box, like fragile furniture, should be wrapped carefully and stored on the truck in a spot that is semi-isolated so nothing can press against it during the drive. For detailed guidance on the materials you’ll need for a successful move, check out our Proper Materials for Moving page.

It’s best to schedule your move as early as possible. The more in advance you plan, the more options you’ll have for selecting a convenient date and time. As a general guideline, reach out to your chosen moving company at least two weeks before your preferred moving date.

Movers typically offer three types of protection for your belongings in case of loss or damage:
Limited liability: This is the basic, legally required coverage that doesn’t cost you anything. With limited liability, the mover is responsible for 60 cents per pound per item for an interstate move.
Added valuation: This type of protection allows you to collect based on the current replacement value of the item minus depreciation. The amount you pay for added valuation coverage depends on how much you state your belongings are worth.
Full value: This is the most costly insurance and covers the actual cost of an item’s replacement or repair without any reimbursement deduction for depreciation. Before you purchase this type of coverage from your moving company, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if it covers your belongings during a move. Compare this to the plan the insurance company is offering.

Be sure to stick around until all your furniture and belongings are loaded up. Take a moment to go over the inventory sheet with the mover and make sure any existing damage, like chips, dents, or scratches, is clearly noted. It’s important that the condition of your items is recorded on both your copy and, most importantly, the driver’s copy. Also, do a quick check to make sure everything you’re moving is listed on the inventory sheet so nothing gets left behind.

A non-binding estimate is just a rough idea of how much your move will cost—it’s not a guaranteed price. It’s based on the weight of your items and the distance of the move. To make this estimate as accurate as possible, the mover should check out your belongings in person. Keep in mind that this type of estimate only covers what’s listed. If you add more items or need extra services, the mover might change or cancel the original estimate. It’s important that the estimate is in writing and clearly states that it’s non-binding.

A binding estimate has to be in writing and is typically based on the estimated weight of your belongings. Movers might use different terms to describe a binding estimate or set price, but it must be clearly stated on the document that the estimate is binding.

You can choose to pack your belongings yourself, have the movers pack some of your items, or let them take care of packing everything. The moving company is there to customize your experience and make your move as seamless as possible. If you’re considering packing services, you can discuss your options with your salesperson during the in-home estimate or review them with your move coordinator. Their website is also a good resource for learning about available packing services. Movers offer different packing options to match various needs and budgets.