Congratulations on your Big Move to Boise, Idaho!
Your move will either be an intrastate (moving to Boise from another city in Ohio) or an interstate move (moving to Boise from another state).
Regardless of what moving company you decide to work with, it is wise to investigate your mover. In this article, we'll show you what to look for.
Locating a Mover
Start ask friends and family members for moving referrals. You can also refer to online moving resources that will direct you to movers in your current location.
Check out the Better Business Bureau as well to see the company doesn't have a lot of complaints that are unresolved. The federal government regulates intrastate movers under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which is part of the U.S. DOT. Make sure the moving company you pick has a USDOT number, is registered with FMCSA to transport household goods between states, and has the proper insurance. You can check out if your company is verified online at www.protectyourmove.gov, or by calling FMCSA at (202) 366-9805 for licensing and (202) 385-2423 for insurance.
If you are moving to Boise from another city, you can check that the carrier is licensed by looking through the listing on the Public Utilities Commission, or by calling (614) 466-3392.
Make a list of three qualified movers — based on their Better Business ratings, customer reviews, pricing, services offered, etc — and arrange for them to come to your home for an in-home estimate.
Estimates
During your in-house estimate, be aware of moving quotes that are very low. Often times, this may lead to extra fees and costs come moving day.
Make sure that the mover gives you an 'Order for Service' with the exact amount you will pay at delivery for your goods.
Ask about the insurance options. All movers should provide a limited liability insurance (basic insurance), but there other coverage options that you may be interested depending on the value of your belongings.
If you need to file a damage claim with your moving company, contact your mover.
If you want to make a complaint against a mover, you can file a complaint with the state; but please realize that the Department of Transportation can't award judgments or force moving companies to pay you any money for damages. However, because it's in charge of licensing movers, it does have some recourse to go after the movers. Include copies of all paperwork and correspondence between you and the moving company. Once the state receives the complaint, you will get a letter advising you how it will be handled.
To file a complaint, fill out this form and send it to the following address:
New York State Department of Transportation
Office of Safety and Security Services
50 Wolf Road, POD 53
Albany, New York 12232
