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Moving Checklist

Image of a woman wearing gloves and holding a clipboard standing in front of a moving truck with moving boxes, plants, and stools. Image of yellow bubble wrap with the text overlay “Moving Checklist. Use this handy checklist to feel more confident throughout your move and prepare for each phase of the moving process.”

Download the Checklist as a PDFImage of the Moving Checklist featuring a pile of moving boxes

Print the checklist in a convenient format that includes space for your notes.


 

Planning: Before You Move

Task Done?
Ask for recommendations from neighbors, friends, and relatives regarding the mover and broker. 
Obtain estimates from at least three movers or brokers and compare cost and all other services to be provided by the companies.
Check to determine whether the interstate mover and broker is registered with FMCSA and has a U.S. DOT number.
Check with the Better Business Bureau regarding the mover and broker.
Obtain the booklet Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move from the mover and broker.
Find out what the mover's responsibilities are for damages that may occur to your belongings.
Ask if the mover and broker have a dispute settlement program.
Find out how and when pickup and delivery of your household goods will occur.
Ask the mover and broker how they can be contacted before the move, during the move, and after the move.
Adequately insure your belongings.

Moving Day

Task Done?

Carefully read the information on the estimate, bill of lading, inventory, and all other completed documents before you sign them.
Accompany the movers as they inventory your household goods and resolve any questions regarding the condition of materials being moved.

Inform the driver and the moving company of how you can be reached during the move. 
Be present to answer questions and give directions to the movers. Stay until they finish.
Give the driver directions to your new house.
Before the moving van leaves, take one final look throughout the house to make certain nothing has been left behind.
Keep the bill of lading until your goods are delivered, the charges are paid, and any claims are settled.

Delivery Day

Task Done?

Pay the driver, according to the terms of your written binding or non- binding estimate, before your goods are unloaded. 
Be present to answer any questions and give directions.
Supervise unloading and unpacking of your goods.
Note on the inventory list all boxes or items that are damaged or missing before you sign any documents.
Last updated: Monday, October 31, 2022