Moving across the country can seem like a monumental undertaking. Choosing a cross country moving company should be the first task on your to do list. You will be entrusting your belongings to the company you choose, so want to take the time to research companies and compare the estimates you receive. It is best to get at least 3 estimates before you settle on a cross country moving company. It is extremely helpful to prepare before you get those estimates, so you can have a good handle of what each company is offering you.
Preparing for an estimate from a cross country moving company:
1.) Get rid of the things you no longer need before you receive estimates. It is difficult for the cross country moving company to estimate the size of truck needed or the weight or your belongings when those items are still scattered throughout the house.
2.) Make a list of all the rooms you will be moving and the contents of those rooms. Include furniture, lamps and artwork. Make a guess as to how many boxes for each room will be moved, as well (for example, 2 wardrobe boxes of clothing for the master bedroom). Do not forget to include the garage, basement, attic and yard.
3.) Make note of anything that might require special attention. For example, you may need the cross country moving company team to disassemble and assemble a crib or use special packing materials for an heirloom vase.
4.) Make note of things in your current or new home that will need to be protected during moving, such as an antique wooden banister or leaded glass windows.
5.) Let the cross country moving company know of the entrances they are to use for loading and unloading and challenges they might face. Taking a dresser through a window, because it will not fit through your small twisty staircase is important to know.
6.) Look up the license number and proof of insurance before you meet with a cross country moving company. That information is usually listed on their web site. If not, ask for it when you first call.
7.) Have your desired moving dates nailed down before you meet with any cross company moving company.
8.) Know what you plan to pack yourself and what you plan to have the moving company handle.