12 SUCCESS TIPS TO OVERSEEING A MOVING COMPANY

When managing a move involving a moving company, take care to do the following:

1. Write letters to the incoming and outgoing neighbors saying hello and goodbye--this reduces the chances of complaints about parking (from moving trucks), noises (from movers), etc.
   
   
2. Find out if there are elevators or if you’ll need to plan to go up and down stairs.
   
   
3. Ensure that the estimators actually visit the new location so that they can plan and map the move more efficiently.
   
   
4. If there is only one elevator be sure to have at least 4 radios, one for moving coordinator, one for the home owner, one for moving lead, and one for the regular movers. This way if there are any questions they can be answered immediately. I would also recommend asking for a quick lesson on radio protocol.
   
   
5. Always have the movers pad the elevator, including the keypad, all floors, stairwells, and walls so that no damage is done.
   
   
6. Do a run through of all items that are important to them and describe in detail any damage or lack thereof. Take pictures, or shoot a video of all your objects from all sides.
   
   
7. Have a checklist of items to be moved and colored tape on items that are not to be moved so that there is no confusion.
   
   
8. Don't allow the movers to work overtime. It costs more and they will take shortcuts to hurry things up.
   
   
9. Find out where your items will be held overnight if the move takes longer than one day, and make sure that there is adequate security.
   
   
10. Read the estimator’s estimate (and any other moving company paper work you’re presented) carefully and slowly before you sign.
    
    
11. Be sure to check your home owners insurances for adequate coverage before purchasing their insurance. Legally the moving company should insure at least 60 cents to the pound per box, per item, at no charge--make sure this is the case.
    
    
12. Tell the estimator that the movers must carry only one box at a time. They will try to talk you out of it,since they want to get done faster. This is a great way to get your things broken! Stand firm.