Save money
- Sort before your survey. Weight is what you're mainly paying for, so sell or give things away before anyone measures your home.
- Check replacement costs. A $100 used dresser may cost far more than that to ship 2,000 miles.
- Leave heavy basics. Cheap shelving, old appliances, firewood, canned food and paint rarely earn their cost.
- Move off-peak. Mid-month and outside summer gives you more choice.
- Compare like with like. Use the same inventory for each company.
Pack for the highway
- Fill every box to the top.
- Use small boxes for books.
- Stand plates and records on edge.
- Tape all seams, and use new or strong boxes.
- Keep liquids in sealed bags, or better yet, leave them behind.
- Label on the side and with the room name at your new home.
Protect valuables
- Carry your documents, medication, jewelry and computers yourself.
- Photograph valuable items before packing.
- List anything worth more than $100 per pound in writing. See valuation coverage.
Plan around delivery
- Delivery comes as a window, not a set time. Plan a few days of camping at home or temporary housing.
- Make sure someone can be there, or authorize someone in writing.
- Book elevator and parking with some flexibility.
- Reserve your first-week items for your own car or luggage.
Avoid common errors
- Signing blank paperwork. Never do it.
- Accepting a firm price with no survey. It isn't a real estimate.
- Paying a large deposit by cash or wire.
- Forgetting building rules. They can stop a move on the spot.
- Signing without checking. Note any damage on the delivery receipt before signing.
Taking care of yourself and your family
Moving day is long, so keep water, snacks and phone chargers within reach. Plan a place for kids and pets to be away from the door. If you can, give yourself a day between arrival and starting a new job.
See more in the moving out of state checklist.