Protect Yourself When You Move

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one in six Americans will move to a new home this year. About one-third of those who move will do it when school is out for the summer. If you will be among them, plan to protect your goods and your pocketbook. Complaints against the moving
industry logged by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) more than doubled since 2000. Claims include loss and damage, overcharging, late pickup or delivery, and worst of all, loads taken hostage until excessive bills are paid. The safety group suggests that you:

• Get good estimates. Ask people to recommend a good mover and check the company's references.• Have at least three firms estimate. If the three are similar, go with the low bidder after checking out the company. If one is Protect Yourself When You Move far lower than the others, consider that a red flag.
• Call FMCSA at (888) 368-7238 to see whether there are complaints against a moving company and what types of complaints were filed. If the complaints involved overcharge or hostage claims, consider not using that company.
• Check the mover's safety record at the Better Business Bureau. If it has more than the average number of times its vehicles have been put "out of service" for failing weigh station inspections, look elsewhere.
• Know your rights. For a state-tostate move, U.S. law does not allow a mover to hold your goods and demand payment of more than 110 percent of their written estimate. They can bill for more later if the load was heavier than anticipated.
• For an in-state move, insist that your bill of lading gives you the same protection as the federal law.
• Get insurance. Movers pay about 60 cents per pound, which may not cover the cost of damaged goods. Check with your home insurer for better information on your coverage.