Whether you're moving across town or across the country, preparation is key to a smooth transition. This guide from AMSA covers everything you need to know — from choosing a reputable mover to settling into your new home.
Choosing a Mover
Selecting the right moving company is the most important decision you'll make during your move. Here are AMSA's recommendations:
- Look for the ProMover designation — movers who have been certified by AMSA
- Verify the company is licensed, bonded, and insured
- Get at least three written estimates from different companies
- Ask for references and check online reviews
- Verify the mover's USDOT number at protectyourmove.gov
- Be wary of estimates that seem too low — they could be from rogue movers
- Never sign a blank or incomplete document
Before the Move
8 Weeks Before
- Start researching moving companies and getting estimates
- Create a moving budget
- Begin decluttering — donate, sell, or discard items you don't need
- Obtain school records and medical/dental records
4 Weeks Before
- Select your moving company and confirm the moving date
- Begin packing non-essential items
- Notify utilities, post office, banks, and subscription services of your address change
- Transfer insurance policies to your new address
- Arrange for pet transportation if needed
1 Week Before
- Finish packing and label all boxes by room
- Confirm arrangements with your moving company
- Prepare an essentials box (toiletries, snacks, phone charger, important documents)
- Defrost and prepare appliances for transport
Packing Tips
Use Quality Boxes
Use sturdy, uniform-sized boxes. Avoid overloading — 50 lbs max per box.
Label Everything
Mark each box with its contents and destination room. Use color-coded labels.
Wrap Fragiles
Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or towels to protect dishes, glassware, and electronics.
Photo Inventory
Photograph valuable items and electronics before disassembly for insurance purposes.
Moving Day
- Be present when the movers arrive and walk through the inventory
- Review and sign the Bill of Lading (your contract with the mover)
- Keep important documents, medications, and valuables with you
- Do a final walkthrough of your old home to check for forgotten items
- Note the condition of items being loaded and report any concerns immediately
- Make sure the driver has your contact information and delivery address
After the Move
- Inspect all delivered items and note any damage on the inventory sheet
- Unpack essentials first — bedding, kitchen items, toiletries
- File damage claims within 9 months of delivery (for interstate moves)
- Update your driver's license, vehicle registration, and voter registration
- Meet your new neighbors and explore the community
Your Rights & Protections
As a consumer, you have specific rights when using a professional moving company for an interstate move:
- Right to a written estimate before the move
- Right to choose between binding and non-binding estimates
- Right to dispute charges you believe are unfair
- Right to file a claim for lost or damaged items
- Right to receive copies of all documents you sign
- Movers must provide the "Your Rights and Responsibilities" booklet
Filing Complaints
If you experience problems with a moving company:
- Contact the mover directly first to resolve the issue
- File a written complaint with the mover's corporate office
- Contact AMSA if the mover is a ProMover member
- File a complaint with FMCSA at nccdb.fmcsa.dot.gov
- Contact your state attorney general's consumer protection office
For assistance, contact AMSA at Membership_Web@Moving.org or (703) 683-7410.