Estimates & Pricing
How is the cost of my move determined?
Interstate moving costs are typically based on:
- Weight of the shipment
- Distance traveled
- Packing services
- Specialty items (pianos, safes, etc.)
- Storage needs
- Access issues (stairs, long carries, elevators)
What types of estimates are available?
Non-Binding Estimate
- Final price is based on the actual weight and services provided.
Binding Estimate
- Guarantees the cost of the move based on the inventory listed.
Binding Not-to-Exceed Estimate
- The price cannot exceed the estimate but may be lower if the shipment weighs less.
Are there additional charges I should know about?
Possible additional charges include:
- Long carry, elevator and stair carry fees (this varies from van line to van line)
- Shuttle service (if a large truck cannot access the location)
- Packing materials
- Storage
- Specialty handling
- Waiting time
Your mover should disclose these before the move. Movers are required by FMCSA to show the additional costs on the estimate for services not included in the estimate but that could potentially become necessary.
Packing & Preparation
Do I have to pack my belongings myself?
No. You may pack your own items or request professional packing services from the mover.
What items cannot be transported?
Most interstate movers cannot transport:
- Hazardous materials (paint, propane, gasoline)
- Ammunition
- Fireworks
- Perishable food
- Plants (in many cases)
- Cleaning chemicals
- Alcohol in some circumstances
- Anything flammable, corrosive or explosive
Always confirm restricted items with your mover.
Should I empty drawers and furniture?
Yes. Removing contents reduces weight and prevents damage. The one exception is dressers and chest of drawers. As long as they only contain linens, clothes, blankets, towels, etc. MOST major van lines will move these full. Check with your Relocation Consultant to be sure.
Should I keep important items with me?
Yes. Keep the following with you:
- Passports and identification
- Jewelry
- Cash
- Medications
- Important documents
- Irreplaceable valuables or family photos
Pickup & Delivery
How long will delivery take?
Interstate delivery times vary depending on distance and logistics. Typical delivery windows range from:
- 1–7 days for regional moves
- 7–21 days for long-distance moves
- Ask your relocation consultant to provide the delivery spread information on your estimate based upon your perceived load date(s.) Make sure you can be available ANY DAY in the delivery spread within 24 hours notice.
Your mover will provide a delivery spread (window) rather than an exact day.
Do I need to be present at pickup and delivery?
Yes. Either you or an authorized adult must be present to:
- Review paperwork
- Confirm inventory
- Sign delivery documents
What happens if my items arrive before I do?
Your mover may place your shipment in Storage in Transit until delivery can be scheduled. It is imperative that you be there the day the driver tells you he will deliver as Storage in Transit adds a considerable amount of cost above and beyond your estimate.
Valuation & Protection
Is my shipment insured?
It is not. Moving and storage companies provide valuation which sets the value the carrier is liable for while your goods are in their custody and control. Interstate movers are required to provide two levels of liability protection:
Released Value Protection
- Basic coverage at $0.60 per pound per item
- Included at no additional cost
Full Value Protection
- The mover must repair, replace, or compensate for damaged items.
- An additional premium applies
Can I use my own insurance?
Yes. Some customers choose third-party moving insurance for extra protection. When doing so make clear to your insurance company that you are NOT doing a self-move but are hiring a professional moving company to do the move.
Damage Claims
What should I do if something is damaged?
If you notice damage:
- Note it on the delivery paperwork.
- Take photos.
- File a claim with the moving company.
How long do I have to file a claim?
You generally have 9 months from the delivery date to file a claim with the mover. If you file a claim the goods MUST STILL BE AT THE DELIVERY ADDRESS LISTED ON THE BILL OF LADING.
How long does the mover have to respond?
The mover must:
- Acknowledge the claim within 30 days
- Resolve or make payment within 120 days
Storage
Can you store my items if my new home isn’t ready?
Yes. Most interstate movers offer Storage-in-Transit (SIT) for short-term storage.
How long can items stay in storage?
Storage-in-Transit is typically available for up to 90 days, after which it may convert to permanent storage.
Nearly all moving companies also provide permanent (long term) storage options as well.
Moving Day
How should I prepare on moving day?
- Finish packing before the movers arrive
- Clearly label boxes. Write your last name on the top and one of the sides. Write a brief list (3-6 items) that give you an idea of what is in the carton
- Set aside items you are taking personally. Preferably have them loaded in your vehicle already. If you cannot, tape them with painters tape and write “Do Not Load” on them
- Secure pets
- Ensure parking access for the truck
- If you agreed to disconnect any of your appliances on your own make sure you have done so
- Have computers, monitors and TVs all unplugged and all wiring disconnected and bundled up
- Make sure you have travel paths in the home. Do not stack boxes in hallways please
- Any refrigerators or freezers you are shipping should have been unplugged, emptied and the door left open for 48 hours prior to the move
- If you told the Relocation Consultant you would disassemble a more time consuming piece of furniture, it should be disassembled prior to loading
Will movers assemble furniture?
Most movers will disassemble and reassemble basic furniture such as beds and tables.
Tips for a Smooth Move
- Book early during peak season
- Declutter before packing
- Keep an inventory of your belongings
- Take photos of valuable items
- Label boxes by room
- Keep essentials with you
- Payment
Payment MUST BE MADE PRIOR TO DELIVERY. Check with your mover but typically you will be expected to pay by certified funds, cash or credit card on an interstate move.