Most of us have been through the process of moving at least a couple of times over the course of our lives. Yet, for some reason, we keep making some of the same mistakes over and over.

Common Blunders:

• Not doing your homework on the moving company you choose.

  Are your movers licensed by your state’s Department of Transportation? Have you checked into their record with the Better Business Bureau? Make sure that you do a quick check on your chosen company before committing to a contract.

• Not taking advantage of free resources.

  Boxes and newspaper are easy to come by, and often free of charge. A little extra searching can save you money on packaging.

• Packing heavy items in large boxes.

  Remember, the heaviest items should always go in the smallest boxes!

• Not measuring the clearance space in your new home.

  Don’t arrive at your new home to find that your furniture won’t fit in the front door!

• Packing flammable, explosive or corrosive materials.

• Misplacing the bill of lading.

  This is the contract between you and your movers and it will be essential should any problems arise along the way.

• Not labeling all boxes.

  Label boxes as completely as possible, including handling instructions, and the final room destination within your new house.

• Not knowing the rules for tax deductions.

  There are very specific guidelines as to which items are tax-deductible and which are not. Make sure to check out the IRS website in advance of your move, and retain all relevant receipts.

• Failing to take care of your movers.

  Whether they are professionals or not, make sure to introduce yourself to everyone and have refreshments on hand. Making a good impression could protect your belongings over the long haul.

• Forgetting to notify the US Postal Service of your new address.

  Take a few moments on our site to check out the Free Address Changer before your move.

Those are the most common blunders, but don’t fail to take into account the psychological side of moving as well. Prepare all members of your household well in advance of the move. And, on the other end, give yourself some time to adjust to your new surroundings.

Broker’s play an important role in helping customers match up with moving companies. Keep in mind, however, that a broker cannot give you a binding estimate and a broker is not responsible for loss or damage.

Do you give binding quotes?

Over the phone, a mover or broker may give you a quote that is generally not binding. A mover may give a binding, or “not to exceed” quote upon reviewing your items in person. Brokers don’t typically give binding quotes.

Does the quote include extra charges?

For example – flight charges, long carry charges, appliance charges, parking charges, storage charges, fuel charges, awkward objects, etc. If you have a piano, you should let them know right up front. Ask them if they have equipment to help with heavy and awkward items.

Will my items be transferred?

Long distance moves can sometimes require your items be transferred to another truck. This extra handling increases the chances for damage to occur.

What forms of payment do you accept and on what terms?

We don’t recommend that you hire movers if they only accept cash; be sure you are clear about the amount that is due on delivery versus the deposit amount, and whether deposits are refundable.Most companies that have a merchant account will accept credit cards so be sure to ask if credit cards are an option.

What type of insurance is included in your quote? What else is available to me?

Basic coverage is 60 cents per pound but your moving company may offer an upgrade at a reasonable price. You can also work with 3rd party insurance providers to cover the move.

What is the process if something were to break or is missing? Who’s responsible?

This is a follow-up to the previous question that clearly breaks down who is responsible for what. If you’re discussing a self-service move, you may not get reimbursed for something that you packed poorly.

• Take Notes
  Make a note of your shipment registration number and keep it with you in case you need to call your mover with questions about your shipment.
• Get the Bed Ready
  Designate one drawer of a dresser for sheets and towels so that you won’t have to rummage through boxes for these essentials the first night in your new home.
• Don’t forget about the Fridge
  After you’ve thoroughly cleaned and dried the inside of your refrigerator, put a handful of fresh coffee, baking soda or charcoal in a sock or nylon stocking and place it inside to keep the interior smelling fresh.
• Keep the Phone Book
  Take your current phone book with you. You may need to make calls to residents or businesses back in your former hometown.
• Pack Heavy – Pack Light
  Pack heavy items in small boxes and lighter items in larger boxes.
• Give out your Number
  Before the van foreman leaves for your destination residence, give him a phone number where you can be reached. It is also a good idea to provide him with an alternate contact in case you can’t be reached.
• Protect Your Memories
  If it’s irreplaceable, take it with you in the car (you don’t want regrets later). But if you do decide to pack framed photos or art, place sheets or blankets between them for added protection.
• Know how to Pack Plates and Records
  Plates and record albums should be packed on end vertically, rather than placed flat and stacked.
• Remember the Bare Necessities
  Toilet paper, telephone, toiletries, snacks, coffee (and pot), soap, flashlight, screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups, utensils, a couple of pans, paper towels, and cleaning supplies are some of the essentials you may need upon arrival at your new home. Pack a box with these types of items and ask your van foreman to load it last so that it will be unloaded first.
• Unscrew Bulbs
  Remove bulbs before packing your lamps.
• Tag your Items
  For your garage sale, tag all items and be prepared to wheel and deal. Garage sale gurus love to haggle.
• Give the Kids an Exercise
  Have children write their names and new address on the cartons from their rooms so they can become familiar with their new street and town.
• Help your Pet Relax
  Keep your pet calm and away from all the activity on moving day by arranging for a friend to watch him at their house.
• Be Nice to Your Plants
  When moving plants to your new residence via your car, try not to let foliage rest against the windows, as the leaves will scorch.
• Take a Break from the Computer
  Upon arrival at your new home, let your computer “acclimate” itself to room temperature before plugging it in.
• Enjoy the Help
  Leave the rest to the professionals, sit back and relax, and look forward to the new opportunities, friends and experiences that are part of any move. Be sure to get a good night’s rest before the pickup and delivery days!