BEFORE YOU MOVE ....READ THIS!

This week's blog provides critical information you as a "mover" need to know before packing the first box.  Whether you are a buyer, seller, or renter, you will want to become familiar with the contents of a free booklet entitled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.  It is furnished by your moving company as required by Federal law.  The contents of this booklet will answer many of your questions and concerns about your pending move. 

Apart from the booklet, let us take a cursory look at three significant areas you need to aware in preparation for your move.

1. Plan before you move.  Obtaining the booklet mentioned above should be Priority One.  Solicit recommendations from neighbors regarding moving companies they may have used in the past; then check with the Better Business Bureau regarding the movers.  When interviewing movers ask the hard questions like: What are the mover's responsibilities if damages are incurred during the move? Do they have a dispute settlement program? Are they an interstate mover registered with the USDOT?  Find out how and when pickup and delivery of your household goods will occur. How can you contact the mover before, during and after the move?  Above all - obtain adequate insurance for your belongings.

2. The day of the move.  Be present to answer questions and give directions to the movers.  Verify the mover's inventory of your household goods and resolve any questions about the condition of items being moved. Carefully read the information on the estimate, order for service, bill of lading, inventory, and all other completed documents before you sign them. Keep a copy of all documents until your goods are delivered, the charges paid, and any claims settled. Give the driver directions to your new house and inform the driver where you can be reached during the move.

3. Delivery day.  Be present to answer any questions and give directions.  Pay the driver, according to the terms of the contract before your goods are unloaded. Supervise the unloading and unpacking of your household items and note on the inventory list any damaged items before you sign any documents.

Whether you are moving cross-town, or cross-country be fully aware of your rights and responsibilities when you move.  Be fully aware of the mover's responsibilities for any damages that may have occurred during transit or unloading.  Have the contact number for the moving company and the name of the agent you worked with to set up the move.  Being prepared can save a lot of heartache and stress before, during and after the move.