AMERICAN MOVING AND STORAGE ASSOCIATION (AMSA) GUIDELINES
ESSENTIAL LIST FOR A SMOOTH MOVE Based on the AMERICAN MOVING AND STORAGE ASSOCIATION (AMSA) GUIDELINES   Obtain Three (3) Written In-Home Estimates. Be wary of phone or internet estimates. Show the mover everything that will be moved including items in attics, basements, garages, storage areas, sheds, etc.   Typically, two of the estimates will be very close in price, weight and service. Select one of the two estimates you receive; the other bid will be very high or very low. Avoid that carrier.
Obtain and Read the Three (3) “Pre-Move” Required Documents from Your Carrier - These documents include: “Your Rights and Responsibilities” and “Ready to Move” brochures, including information on the carriers’ arbitration program that they participate in. These documents are required for every interstate shipment. Avoid Large Down Payments - Be wary of carriers seeking large down payments to hold dates or reserve services. Your selected moving carrier should be flexible and offer you reasonable “windows” of time to complete your relocation. Ask Questions - If you do not understand something, ask. The moving business is complex and has its own language. If you are not satisfied with the answers you receive or, if the carrier hesitates when you ask for clarification, seek advice from another carrier. Plan an “Off-Peak” Season to Move (whenever possible) - June to September is considered the “high” or “peak” season for relocating. If you can avoid moving during those months, you will likely receive better service. If you most move during the “peak” season months, try to move mid-month or mid-week to avoid the end of the month, when moves are generally frequent. Be Reachable by Phone - Communicate openly with your carrier by maintaining phone contact throughout your move. This can save time and storage costs if the driver is ready to deliver your shipment and you are ready to receive your shipment earlier (or later) than expected. Be sure to have the driver’s full name, ID and truck number to allow for efficient communication. Take Valuables with You - Valuables (such as cash, coins, jewelry, photographs and important paperwork) should be in your possession at all times or forwarded for your receipt in your new location by a traceable mailing process (FedEx, UPS, or US Postal Service). Segregate Personal Travel Items - Any “overnight” luggage you anticipate traveling with (several days’ worth of clothing, important papers, valuables, etc.) should be kept in one place for easy access or, in the vehicle you are traveling in. Avoid having those items loaded on the truck or being placed “out of sight”. Try to Relax - No matter how organized and prepared you are for your move, occasionally, things go wrong. Moving is one of the most stressful times in your life. Take a deep breath, be patient, eat a balanced diet and get plenty of rest before your scheduled moving day. Use a Reputable Moving Carrier - When planning a move, allow yourself a feasible timeframe (usually one month) to set your moving date. Ask your carrier for organizational tools and moving tips that they have developed for you. Become familiar with terms and procedures involved in your move. Schedule any doctor, veterinarian or vehicle appointments as early as possible so you and your family are prepared for moving day. Organization - When planning a move, allow yourself a feasible timeframe (usually one month) to set your moving date. Ask your carrier for organizational tools and moving tips that they have developed for you. Become familiar with terms and procedures involved in your move. Schedule any doctor, veterinarian or vehicle appointments as early as possible so you and your family are prepared for moving day. Expect the Unexpected - Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance from your professional moving carrier. Obtain the name and telephone number of your moving carrier consultant and call them frequently to avoid any “unexpected” situations. No question is too silly. Try to establish a friendly relationship of communication with your moving carrier consultant who is trained to guide you step-by-step towards the most efficient solutions to your “unexpected” situations. Remember, you are hiring a professional and you should expect professional advice and service from your selected moving carrier.