In every move, there's a moment of truth: The van holding all your worldly possessions arrives at your new house, and before the door is opened, you're presented a bill to pay before anything will be unloaded. How do you protect yourself from unhappy surprises?

This question has become more urgent since 1995, when the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), the federal agency that handled disputes between consumers and movers, was shut down by the government. Without the ICC, there are few penalties for moving companies that don't meet their obligations. So it's essential that you tell your moving service as much as possible about what they'll be moving for you, where they'll be moving it, and when you expect it to be picked up and delivered. Ask questions, ask them again, and stay involved.
Get at least three written estimates. And get them in person, rather than on the phone or over the Internet. Make sure that all three companies are truly separate -- some moving companies operate under more than one name. You may have to visit their office to be sure.

Check with your local Better Business Bureau and your state attorney general's office to see if anyone has filed complaints against your potential movers.
Better Business Bureau Online


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