Moving house means decisions. Who will move what to move, and how to move? For the sake of sanity one needs to find a reputable mover. Begin by asking your company whether they can recommend a mover. Next, look through the yellow pages and note down the names and contacts of at least 4-5 companies that have offices where you reside and operate in your new location. Find out, how long each company has been in the business and check their referrals. Choose companies that have been around for at least ten years.

Meet them to find out which ones are efficient, courteous, and have good business systems in place. Ensure that they do the moving themselves and do not sub-contract the assignment. Ask the companies to come to your home and do an estimate.

Ask about:
* What services they offer?
* The extent of insurance they provide?
* What guarantees are offered?
* Full name as well as DBA names of the company and their address?
* Phone numbers, toll free numbers, as well as tracking system numbers?
* DOT and MC license details.
* Web site addresses and e-mail contacts.
* Company office address and contact details for where you are moving.

In accordance with applicable laws, most reputed movers will give you a copy of, "Your Rights and Responsibilities when you Move,"? Before you finalize a mover check:
* The corporate information provided" ?you can do this online or at the office of secretary of state.
* Use the DOT and MC numbers to verify the company workings. Use www.SaferSys.org . They will provide:
* The name, addresses, phone number, and contact details of the company. Check against the information you have gathered.
* They will display whether the company is in service or out of service.
* Information on the number of trucks and drivers will give you an idea of the extent of their business.
* The company should be: authorized for hire, licensed to operate interstate and household goods should be a part of their cargo carried list.
* Be sure to go through inspection records. Make sure everything is in order.
* Use the FMCSA Licensing and Insurance site to check the company's insurance.
* Check out the company's business practices with BBB, Better Business Bureau.
* Call FMCSA's safety violation and consumer complaints cell and check on the company, whether there are any complaints.

Once you have done the needful check the condition of the trucks and whether the name of the company is displayed all over the body. If you find everything is okay look through the paperwork with a fine tooth comb. Never sign any documents that are blank. Only sign papers that are filled in completely.

Be a well informed mover:
* Check the estimate as well as weight of the goods.
* Find out who handles packing and unpacking and if the estimate includes all costs.
* Determine if the goods will be transported directly or whether a storage facility will be used. If yes, is it the company's own or a third party?
* Ask about terms and conditions for goods packed by you.
* Find out who will handle paperwork -licenses, border crossings, customs documents, and so on.
* Ask about Replacement Value Protection.

Be aware, check for loop holes. Check goods against your inventory before packing as well as after unpacking. A little bit of effort goes along way in making moving smooth and hassle free.