Moving is a tough time, you are under a lot of stress and its hard to know who you can trust to handle your move.  Following these tips can help you avoid any hassle and prevent choosing a scandalous moving company.  Staying informed of your rights and responsibilities when moving is necessary!

• Get a minimum of 3 estimates in writing before choosing your moving company.
• Make sure the moving company you choose is properly licensed and insured.
  Check their USDOT number with FMCSA and ask for proof of insurance.
• Read your contract and understand it completely before signing it!
  
• Your mover is required to provide you with the FMCSA document “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” on any nationwide move.  Read this document thoroughly prior to your move to understand what is required of you and your mover.
• Ask for references from your mover and, if needed, call to verify the references. Don’t forget to check their ranking on the Better Business Bureau.
  
• Ask for a complete list of services and fees.  Make sure you understand what additional services may be needed and what services are included in the contract.Have a clear understanding of how much these services cost.  Examples of additional services are:  Additional Insurance, Flight & Stairs Carry, Long Carry, Shuttle Service, Waiting Service, Storage Service, Re-Delivery Service, Extra Pick Up Service & Extra Delivery Service.
• Understand that most moving quotes are not guaranteed.  You may request a visual estimate for a binding quote but this quote only covers the items and services documented on the paperwork.  Adding extra items or services last minute may increase the overall cost of your move.
• Have your delivery date written on the contract.  Most moving companies provide a delivery window of 1 to 10 business days.  If you require a guaranteed delivery date then request this service.  Guaranteed pickup or delivery dates will most often incur additional charges.
• Purchase additional insurance to cover the replacement cost of your valuable items.  Even if a company is licensed and insured this is a minimum liability insurance.  If you have valuable items you are moving and want to make sure you get the full replacement cost if there is damage or loss then you need to add additional insurance coverage to your shipment.  If you purchase additional insurance you will be issued an insurance policy with a policy number.
• If possible, supervise the loading and unloading process and document any damage that may occur.  Remember, your items are insured for a minimum liability or, if you purchased additional insurance, for the full replacement value, so be polite in the unfortunate event something does get damaged.

Following these tips should help make your move a smooth transition.