The U.S. Department of Transportation provides a guide titled “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” full of important information about moving. Here are some of the highlights, along with my moving advice!
Customer Responsibilities
As a customer, you have the responsibility to be onsite during the loading and unloading days. If you are not available, you should appoint a representative to be there in your place. Movers are not required to stay at the home if there is not a homeowner present to manage the move and answer questions.
Legitimate Movers and Brokers
When moving, you can use local movers or brokers who essentially sell you to a network of movers. I recommend using local movers, as brokers do not guarantee that the movers will show up. Better safe than sorry!
Choosing a Moving Date
If you are hoping to move on specific days, usually only local movers have the flexibility to try and map out these days for you. If you hire van lines, they will not guarantee a delivery date. They will give you a window of time for possible delivery. You may possibly share the truck with other clients. I recommend using local movers to try and pinpoint delivery days.
Third Party Insurance
Movers are not required to provide insurance. Some will, and some won’t. If you purchase third party insurance, the movers are required to issue a policy and provide the client with a copy of the policy. If you have homeowner’s insurance, you likely already have coverage, so make sure you are not double-paying if you don’t need to be!
Check out the full document online for more information.
Happy Moving! Bonnie
