Interstate Move

If you are moving from one state to another, the moving company is required by law to give you a copy of "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move." This consumer booklet covers the mover's required participation in a Dispute Settlement Program and provides information regarding the mover's liability.
 
The cost of an interstate move is usually based on the weight of your belongings and on the distance they are shipped, plus the amount of packing and other services that you require.

Help the movers calculate the cost of your move by showing them every single item to be moved. Don't forget to go into the attic, basement, garage, closets and under beds. Anything omitted from the estimate but later included in the shipment will add to the final cost of the move.

Movers may weigh your shipment on a certified scale (subtracting out the weight of the truck) to determine the actual weight of your belongings. Keep in mind that this could raise or lower the original estimate.

Interstate Moving Companies

If you are given a non-binding estimate, your mover cannot require you pay more than the amount of the estimate plus ten (10%) percent. You will then have at least 30 days after delivery to pay any remaining charges. The mover may, however, demand full payment at the time of delivery for any added services that were not included on the estimate.

For example, if you received a non-binding estimate of $5,000 for your move, and you did not request any additional services, the mover cannot require you pay more than $5,500 to have your shipment delivered. The mover is required to invoice you for any remaining charges.
 
If you want absolute price certainty and you can define what articles you are going to move, then a binding estimate may be a desired option. However, binding estimates may be more costly since the mover may build added revenue into the price to protect them from variances in the estimate. Most movers provide non-binding estimates, because the actual charges are based on the actual certified weight of all the household goods in the shipment. This protects both the customer and the mover.
 
When you are discussing your estimate with your professional mover, be sure to ask about the arrangements for paying for the move. It is customary for movers to require that charges be paid in cash, by certified check, or by money order. Most movers will not accept personal checks. Some movers will accept payment by credit card.

Generally, your belongings will be transported in a van along with those of other families moving in the same general direction. This helps to keep your costs down. Delivery is made on any of the several consecutive days you and the mover agreed upon before the move began.
 
Make sure the mover knows how to contact you to schedule actual delivery. If you cannot be reached at destination, the mover may place your shipment in storage to avoid delaying other shipments. This can mean additional charges to you for storage and handling.