Your Moving Day

Moving is mostly a scheduling problem.

A few practical notes for anyone with a move coming up.

Book earlier than feels necessary

Most moves in the US happen between May and September, and the last week of the month is busier still. Good crews in that window get booked weeks ahead, so the companies with availability late are not usually the ones you want.

Get more than one estimate

Quotes for the same job vary more than people expect. It is worth having two or three to compare, and worth asking each one what would make the number go up on the day.

Questions worth asking

• Binding or non-binding? A non-binding estimate can change once the truck is loaded.
• Who actually shows up? Some companies subcontract the crew.
• What is not included? Stairs, long carries, packing materials and bulky items are common add-ons.
• How is damage handled? Basic coverage is often far less than the value of your things.

Sort the paperwork early

Change your address with USPS, move or cancel utilities, and check whether your building needs a certificate of insurance from the movers. That last one holds up more move days than anything else on this list.