Make arrangements for movers well in advance of the move date to make sure you get one.

Call at least two movers and gets written bids (movers call them estimates, but in fact you can hold the mover to the estimate unless something clearly unexpected happens—like, for example, you not showing the estimator the antique furniture in the attic).

Local and cross country long distance movers do things slightly differently.  Be aware.

Local movers (generally a less than a 100 mile trip, but sometimes a trip as far as New York City or Raleigh/Durham) give fixed price estimates after looking at the house and the contents that have to be moved.

Long distance movers generally give a bid per pound.  They calculate pounds by weighing the truck before and after it is loaded. A typical house may have 10,000 to 15,000 pounds; per pound charges are running $.70-$1.00 per pound. So the cost is thousands of dollars.  Their estimate is based on an estimate of pounds.  So in comparing bids for long distance movers, you need to look at poundage they are estimating as well a the dollars!  The bid could be low, but the actual poundage, as determined later, could be higher than extimated.

Movers may verbally discuss various extras or cost guarantees they are willing to offer as part of a bid.  For example, you may ask about packing some stuff yourself to save money; or you may ask about top limits on the total price.  Or you may want to know if the mover is to supply all boxes.  Or the estimator may offer various extras as an inducement to get you to sign up. Agreements on anything like this must be written on the estimate for you to be sure the company will honor it.  You might also ask for references to use as you evaluate bids.

When the movers show up to pack and label boxes, be there to watch that they do not make labeling errors. Take valuables with you separately.  If you see damage occurring (a worst case) document it with your camera.

On the day of the move, be there. Tips are optional.  If you do decide to tip, for larger companies you may need to tip each member of the crew individually—not the driver alone.  Many drivers and crews have not met before the job, so drivers don’t always share. Tipping is most effective if people know they will earn a tip by doing a good job. If you can find a way to let the crew know your intentions, do it.  Drinks and some food may be a good idea to get that extra effort from the crew. 

Local movers we know have been good are:

                                                Sunday Movers            703-404-9562
                                                Knicely & Sons            703-281-5726