Scott Michael
Scott Michael, president and CEO of the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA), the national trade group for the professional moving industry based in Alexandria, Virginia. Moving.org
To choose the mover who is best for you, first check online reviews at sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Then ask good candidates these important questions…
How do you determine cost? Beware of movers who give only estimates over the phone. Whether local or interstate, the mover you choose should be willing to come to your home to see what needs to be transported, discuss such options as packing for you, and then follow up with a free, written and signed estimate. Estimates from interstate movers are based on the approximate weight of your goods and the distance traveled. Most local companies charge by the hour and number of movers required.
Is the cost binding? A binding estimate guarantees the final cost unless goods or services are added later. In a nonbinding estimate, the final cost is determined after the shipment is weighed. In an interstate move, it cannot exceed more than 10% of the original cost. Local movers follow their own rules. Seek out a local company that guarantees cost in writing or offers a nonbinding written estimate with a cap.
Will it be cheaper if I change my moving date? Some companies charge more at busy times, including summer, weekends and the last few days of the month.
What are the payment arrangements you ask for? Many movers ask for a deposit only if it is a very busy time of year. If a deposit is requested, do not pay in cash. Traditionally, interstate moves involve no deposit. Sometimes 20% of the total is paid at or around the time of pickup and the balance upon delivery.
Are you licensed or registered—and if so, by whom? Interstate movers must be registered with the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which monitors safety, keeps track of complaints and watches over the industry in other ways. Local movers may be licensed or certified by public utilities, state departments of transportation or other organizations. Membership in a consumer or trade group is a plus. Be wary of movers without credentials unless they come with great recommendations from people you trust.
How are new people that work for you trained? Are new people supervised by trained employees? Do they get training materials? Do they practice how to load, unload and pack? You want answers that show that people are trained well.
How will I be reimbursed for any lost or damaged items? Verify whether you are getting full-value replacement coverage, which is required in your estimate for an interstate move, or a much more limited 60- cents-per-pound coverage that gives you little protection. Your 20-pound TV is probably worth a lot more than $12. (Local movers may have even lower limits.) You also may incur deductibles. Coverage for antiques, valuable rugs and other high-value items may cost extra. Most likely, items that you pack yourself will be your responsibility, not the mover’s, even if the mover transports them. Be sure to insist on having any coverage that’s promised, backed up in writing. Your homeowner’s insurance may provide additional coverage—check with your insurer.
Do you guarantee pickup and delivery dates? Most long-distance carriers provide a range of several days, not guaranteed dates. More specific dates and times are communicated closer to the time of the move and when your goods are in transit. When asked, some companies may guarantee dates at extra cost.
Will a service charge (for tips) be added? This happens only rarely. If none is added, tipping the movers is customary practice for good service. Unlike in restaurants, there is no standard percentage. Some movers say $10 per person for a half-day move is appropriate. For a full day move, consider $20 per person. But it’s really up to you, based on how well you think they did.
