How should you choose a mover?

BY JEAN GUARINO
Courtesy Chicago Sun Times

Whether you're relocating a few blocks away or across country, the process of moving can be traumatic for every member of the family.
To minimize the stress, it's important to rely on a reputable carrier who will work with you to make your move as easy as possible.
"If you're going to put everything you own in a truck and entrust it to someone you don't know, you want to make sure that individual is reputable and has a proven track record," said Patricia Smith, executive director of the Illinois Movers Association.
Here are some basic tips on how to choose a mover.
Get written estimates from at least three movers on how much it will cost.
If two are in the same ballpark but the third is substantially lower, ask why.
Unfortunately, Smith said, there are movers who undercut qualified movers by taking shortcuts. "Insist on seeing the mover's license from the ICC," she said. "A prerequisite of obtaining a license is proof of insurance in case of loss or damage. If he can't show you a license, chances are, he also has no insurance and you have no recourse if something is lost or broken."
Also ask to see proof of workers compensation that will protect you from liability if a worker is injured moving your furniture.
Smith also suggested asking the mover to provide the names of at least three customers the carrier moved recently. "It's also a good idea to call the Illinois Commerce Commission to see if any complaints have been registered against the mover," she added.
Never discuss cost over the phone. A company rep has to come to your home to provide a realistic written estimate.
A reputable mover soliciting your business should hand you a copy of the Illinois Commerce Commission's brochure, "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move." The pamphlet answers questions you might have about liability in the event of loss or damage to your property.
Carriers offer customers two kinds of estimates.
With a binding estimate you know in advance what your move will cost. However, it also means you can't add a sofa and a few chairs Aunt Lucy would like moved after you've agreed to this type of estimate.
With a more open-ended non-binding estimate there is no limit on what you can ship. Final charges could be higher or lower than the estimated cost, depending on the actual weight of the shipment.
The cost of a long distance move is determined by weight and distance, while charges for local moves are by the hour. If you are making a long-distance move you might give some thought to discarding some old furniture.
To minimize the hourly charges for a short move, try to do as much of the work yourself as possible. The costs will mount quickly if you expect movers to pack and unpack and perform other tasks such as hooking up appliances.
The most important document when using a professional mover is the bill of lading. This is the legal contract between you and the mover and defines the services the carrier agrees to provide.
If the mover refuses to provide this essential document, look for another mover.
You'll need to sign off on an inventory both before and after the move.
The driver will present the inventory to you for your signature after the van is loaded and again when the shipment reaches your new home.
Take your time to check this list. If anything is damaged or missing, indicate it by writing on the driver's inventory list before you sign off.
It's not necessary to unpack every carton before signing off, but do note any damage to the outside of any carton. You can still file a loss or damage claim if a packed item is broken, but make sure you leave the pieces in the carton.
• Illinois Movers Association, Springfield, (217) 585-2470, Website: www.imawa.com
• Illinois Commerce Commission, transportation division, Springfield, (217) 782-6448