Movers Guide

As soon as the seller accepts your offer and you sign off on it, you should proceed to planning your move.

Taking Possession

Your purchase contract should explicitly state the date and time that you get the keys and take possession of the house/building. This typically is the day escrow closes, though you and the seller can set a different time. Some sellers prefer not to vacate until closing day. Before moving in, check and double check the house for moving damage or uncompleted repairs. (If repairs are uncompleted, your contract should spell out how to resolve this problem.). If the seller needs to stay in the house for some time after closing, you should negotiate a “seller rent back” in the purchase contract. Most of these seller rent-backs require the seller pay the equivalent of the buyer's monthly mortgage payment

Finding a Mover

Obtain estimates from 2-3 licensed moving companies before making a choice. Fill out online estimate forms or have an estimator from each company visit your house to examine the items before issuing a quote. Verbal quotes are not binding, so make sure you are given a written estimate. Typically you will want a "not to exceed" or "best price" estimate, which will limit your moving expense to the amount quoted and avoid any surprises. If the move ends up costing less than the estimated amount, you pay the lower price; also ask about discounts. You can fill out a moving estimate form on our website at USA Moving and Storage for a free instant quote.

Trusting a Mover

Even when it goes smoothly, moving can be overwhelming. Be wary of price points significantly below all other estimates. A low bid can indicate someone trying to buy your business, or it can show inexperience. You are trusting a stranger with your belongings, so make sure you feel confident with their level of service.

Making Sure Your Move Goes Smoothly

Here are some ways to make your move an easy and seamless one:

• Save money by moving less.
• Sell, donate or throw away items you don't want before getting your estimate.
• Request good-credit letters from your utility companies.
• You can avoid putting down money for deposits if your utility company will notify the new company of your good credit status, or send you a letter of reference.
• Begin working on your change of address notices.
• Send them to creditors, magazines/newspapers, membership organizations, insurance companies, etc as well as friends and relatives.
• Measure all openings in your home, or space in elevators and stairwells.
• Make sure there's enough clearance to accommodate your possessions.
• Prepare your own inventory of important possessions.
• Include numbers and labels on all moving boxes so you can find items quickly.
• Arrange utilities.
• Call at least two weeks before your move to have electricity, water, gas or telephone service switched on closing day or the day you move in.
• Arrange contractors.
• If you have time between your closing and move-in dates, you may want to have carpeting and painting done before moving in furniture.
• Make a First Night box.
• Label this box and include towels, sheets, blanket, tissues, paper towels, plastic utensils, paper plates and cups, screw driver, hammer, can opener and other essentials.
• Change the locks on your doors.
• This is not absolutely necessary, but most security experts advise it.
• Save your receipts.
• You might be able to deduct some moving expenses; consult your tax advisor.