Approximately 1.6 million Americans hire interstate household goods movers each year. Unfortunately, mover fraud can occur. Check out your mover before hiring.

All American is an agent for Mayflower Transit and licensed by the North Carolina Utilities Commission and the Federal Department of Transportation.

1. Consumer Organizations
Check with the Better Business Bureau (https://www.bbb.org/raleigh-durham/business-reviews/moving-companies/all-american-relocation-in-raleigh-nc-2063) or other consumer organizations in your local area for feedback from those who have previously used the moving companies you’ve selected.

2. State Moving Associations
Another way to check on movers in your area is to contact your state moving association. Ask them if your potential moving company is a member and what kind of reputation the mover has. While not every state has such an association, most have either a moving association or a warehouseman’s association. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration maintains an online directory of state associations at: www.protectyourmove.gov/related-sites/movers-association/state-movers.asp.

3. The American Moving and Storage Association
Check to see whether the moving company is a member of the American Moving and Storage Association (“AMSA”). Many AMSA members are also participants in the AMSA Certified Mover and Van Line Program. AMSA-certified moving companies and van lines have voluntarily agreed to abide by a Code of

Conduct that requires complete disclosure of moving information to consumers, written estimates of charges, timely service, and prompt response to claims and complaints. They have also agreed to arbitrate disputes of up to $10,000 arising from loss or damage to articles in your shipment. To learn more about AMSA, or to find out whether the companies you are considering are certified members visit their Web site at: www.promover.org

Federal regulations don’t require movers to insure your goods against loss or damage, but they are required to offer various valuation levels for you to select. Valuation is not insurance, but a measure of the extent to which the mover can be held liable if loss or damage is proven.

Full Replacement Value is the default level of valuation, although many consumers select $0.60/lb. because this costs less. The risk with choosing this level of protection is that if carrier liability is proven, you are only able to collect $0.60 for every pound of the lost or damaged item’s weight.

The base cost of you move is determined by your binding or non-binding estimate and the services and inventory that it was based upon. If you requested additional services or have additional items for delivery, then the total cost of your move will increase.

If your mover did not amend your estimate or order for service, then you are still entitled to the release of your goods upon payment of 100% of your binding or 110% of your non-binding estimate. There is one exception: You are obligated to pay any additional charges upon receipt of an invoice that your mover will send you 30 days after delivery.

If accessorial services are required, such as the use of a shuttle when a full-size moving van cannot operate, you may be required to pay for a portion of those services upon delivery.

During an in-home estimate, a Relocation Consultant will visit your home and estimate the weight and size of all of your belongings that you will be moving. They’ll also discuss move details such as dates, packing services, etc., and address any questions you may have. At the end of the visit, your salesperson will draft a customized digital and/or written estimate for your review.

You may contact your move coordinator at any time throughout your move process. Your move coordinator can assist with delivery dates, additional moving services (packing, unpacking, cleaning services, etc.) and any questions you may have about the process.

If you ever need to add or subtract items from your move or change your move date, your move coordinator can assist with updates. Keep his/her phone number handy throughout the entire move process.

Contact your move coordinator as soon as you can if your move dates have changed. He/she can process any changes to your plan and discuss updates. Keep in mind that your estimate may change depending on the dates you selected.

You can pack yourself, we can pack some of your belongings or we can pack everything. All American is here to personalize your move process and make this transition easier.

If you’re interested in our packing services, you can discuss options with your salesperson during your in-home estimate. Your move coordinator can also review these services. All American offers different packing services to fit all types of moves and budgets.

I need some advice on how to pack my belongings. Can Mayflower help?

You can certainly pack yourself. Visit our packing tips for advice on how to pack dishes, clothes, shoes and other items. You can also view our packing videos for tips on how to pack specific rooms in your home.

Notify family, friends and any professional organizations you are affiliated with on a regular basis. It’s also important to inform your family doctor, attorney, accountant, and school teachers/administrators (if applicable).

Contact your move coordinator if you need to add or subtract any items from your move plan. He/she can assist you with any changes or updates. Keep in mind your cost estimate may change.

The post office is a good place to start. An online Change of Address form is available on the United States Postal Service website. It’s also important to change your address with your banks, credit card companies, insurance providers and magazine subscriptions. Check out our complete checklist for more reminders.