Long distance moving: What you need to discuss with the mover prior to moving day

Choosing a moving company is an important step in preparing for a move, allowing you to get estimated costs and moving dates to give your impending move more structure and a finite date. In order to make an educated decision, and to make sure you aren't flying blind in the days leading up to your move, there are some key issues you should discuss with your moving company to make sure you understand how the moving process will go.

When making big decisions like choosing a long distance moving company, a simple oversight can have huge consequences. With that in mind, here are some considerations to address before your moving day:

Cost estimates

In order to determine the estimated cost of a move, most moving companies will want to talk to you over the phone and take down an inventory of your belongings. This includes the square footage of your home and the major assets you own that will add significant weight to the truck. Most trucking companies provide moving cost quotes according to the estimated weight of your belongings, rather than volume, and they will take down an inventory with this measuring method in mind.

Reservations and scheduling

Find out when they are available to load up, transport and unload your belongings. You will also want to find out if these dates are subject to change, and what policies are in place in the event alternative dates are chosen. Many people are limited in the flexibility they can offer when choosing their moving dates, so understanding the options when reserving and scheduling the move is key.

Coverage options

Coverage can vary widely from one company to the next. Your moving company can run down the various options and make suggestions on which types of coverage might be most beneficial to you given your situation.

Packing guidelines

The packing process can vary from one moving company to the next, and it's important to understand the process, as well as how you can help. For example, if you are interested in doing some or all of the packing of items, ask the moving company what their rules allow. You may be restricted in terms of the types of packing you can use - the moving company may require that you use only their boxes, or you may be able to use totes and other packaging. You might also want to see how doing your own packing affects the quoted price of the move.

After discussing these key points with the moving company, you should have much greater peace of mind heading into the tedious and often stressful moving process. But the reliability of a trusted moving company can relieve you of many of the challenges that can complicate a move. With those key steps in the hands of experienced professionals, you can get more sleep at night.