Questions for Interstate Moving Companies
Choose the best interstate moving company for your out-of-state move
Last year, over 10,0000 complaints and lawsuits were filed against moving companies. Here are questions to ask to make sure the policies, procedures and standards of the moving company you select will protect you from a disastrous moving experience during your out-of-state move.
Does the moving company offer the industry standard options for protecting the packing and transportation of your household goods?
Reputable moving companies will typically offer three coverage options for you to choose from and will carefully explain the differences between each. The three options you SHOULD be presented with are:
- Full Value Protection: Full Value Protection is also often called Extra Care Protection (ECP), and it is only offered on interstate moves. Under this option everything will be covered up to the replacement value of the item.
- Depreciated Value Protection: This coverage is based on depreciated value of an item regardless of current replacement cost. Your valuables are somewhat protected under this option, but you pay for it.
- Basic Liability: Basic Carrier Liability is also often called Limited Liability and is the minimum coverage required by law. There is no extra charge for this type of protection.
Is the moving company only applying "Basic" or "Carrier’s Liability" on your household goods shipment?
Beware of coverage that is based solely upon the weight of an individual item. This type of coverage is offered “free of charge” but doesn’t begin to cover the replacement cost of most items. For example, if your $1,800 TV gets dropped by a mover, you will not receive $1,800, but only 60 cents per oound; that means if your TV weighs 75 pounds, you will only get $45 for your $1,800 TV.
Is the interstate moving company a member of the Better Business Bureau?
Only about 20% of moving companies are listed with their local BBB. Call the BBB and request a report of their standing before selecting an interstate mover.
Will the interstate moving company provide you with at least 10 current references upon your request?
Receiving feedback on other out-of-state moves that they completed is invaluable when it comes time to make a decision on which company will handle your interstate move.
Additional Services to Ask Interstate Moving Companies:
- Do they offer the disassembly and re-assembly of your furniture?
- Do they offer to disconnect and reconnect your major appliances?
- Do they offer packing and unpacking services?
Let the American Alliance of Ethical Movers Help
If you’re still unsure about how to choose the best interstate moving company to assist you in your state-to-state move, let the American Alliance of Ethical Movers (AAEM) help. We will do the research for you – at NO COST! We have a national network of reputable movers we have been working with for years.
AAEM Movers
- 100% Insured
- Follow the AAEM Code of Conduct
- Members of the Local BBB
- References Verified
- Guaranteed Moving Prices – no last minute fees!
Fill out the Free Quote Form at the top of the page and rest assured knowing that your out-of-state move will be in good, honest hands.
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Facts about moving scams
Choosing an interstate moving company for national moves is vital for protection against scams! Find out how to save time, money and headaches with these helpful facts.
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Why choose AAEM?
“Your staff removed a huge amount of uncertainty for us since we had never moved before. They answered our questions and reduced our fears.”
Barbara Scher - Cary, NC -
About AAEM national movers
The American Alliance of Ethical Movers (AAEM) was established to protect consumers from becoming a victim of scams during out-of-state moves by helping them choose a reputable interstate moving company.