FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your move can still happen. Arrange to keep moving boxes covered if you are placing them outside in the rain. Furniture and electronics can be damaged by rain. Ask your mover for advice on how to protect them. Shrink wrap may be an option. Be careful of wet slippery surfaces inside and outside your home. Finally if lightening is in the area, take a break for everyone’s safety.

Start small. Experts say you get small stuff organized and boxed before tackling larger items. Also work room by room to make unpacking easier later on.

One smart idea we saw: keep a wardrobe box in your residence. Use it to pack your bedsheets, towels and other items you needed up to moving day. Mark it so you can unpack this box as one of the first at your new home.

Many movers can arrange to store your items near your destination. But you will be charged a storage fee and also for your eventual delivery. You may wish to ask if items will be stored in the company’s own facilities or if they use third party storage.

Hiring professional movers reduces the chances you’ll get injured moving heavy and awkward items twice, once on the packing and once of the delivery end. Also, movers will have the right equipment to move your items. Hiring them also frees you up to finish all the last minute details of your move.

Your moving company can explain the coverage they offer on moves. But the basic limited liability coverage is typically paid by weight (30 to 60 cents a pound) not by the type of item. You may also be able to purchase full or declared value protection. This can make movers liable for the replacement value of any damaged or missing items.

Most movers will offer a free estimate prior to your move. A representative will visit your home to see the items you plan to move. For an intersate move they will estimate a cost based on approximate weight and amount of items you are moving. Your actual cost on move day for an interstate move will be based on the actual weight and the distance traveled, plus any insurance or additional services you add or that are required for your location.

Experts advise four to six weeks ahead of your scheduled move. Or longer if it is a complicated job.