From packing to unpacking, moving takes careful planning and some legwork. Unless you have a group of reliable friends to help, you will require a professional mover.

Unfortunately, people fall prey to dishonest and sometimes unlicensed moving companies. Every year, the Better Business Bureau and the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) receive complaints involving damaged or lost goods and final prices higher than original estimates.

Anyone can claim to be a mover, so checking credentials is critical. Make sure moving companies are licensed, bonded and insured. All interstate movers must, at minimum, be licensed by the federal government and are assigned a motor carrier number you can verify with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at www.protectyourmove.gov. 

Contact the BBB for a list of accredited moving companies or business reviews on ones you’re considering. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301. The BBB and the AMSA offer the following tips on selecting movers:

• Request written estimates from at least three moving companies. Discuss timing, packing, unpacking, weight, distance and storage charges.

• Consider reputation, years of service and services provided, as well as cost.

• Find out if companies are members of associations, like the AMSA or Ohio Association of Movers, Inc.

• Read the bill of lading, a formal contract detailing the move.

• Ask how the company prefers payment.

• Never sign a contract if there are blank lines or items you don’t understand.

• Find out the mover’s loss or damage policy and ask if you can increase protection coverage.

• Be present when movers pack, pick up and deliver items.

• Keep valuables, medicine and important documents with you in case they’re needed.

Do your homework and know your rights when hiring a moving company. It’ll help ensure a smooth move.

John North is president and CEO of the Dayton Better Business Bureau.