Long-Distance Moving Checklist — 8 Weeks to a Safe Move
A long-distance move is one of the most logistically complex things most people do. Rushing the process is how consumers end up with unreliable movers, surprise charges, and damaged belongings. This week-by-week checklist puts safety first at every step.
8 Weeks Before — Research & Shortlist
- Research at least 5 moving companies. Get recommendations from people you trust.
- Check each company on MoveSafe — verify DOT number, safety rating, insurance status, and ScamScore.
- Confirm each company is a carrier, not a broker.
- Read online reviews on Google, BBB, and Yelp. Look for patterns, not individual reviews.
- Eliminate any company with no DOT number, no insurance, or an Unsatisfactory safety rating.
6 Weeks Before — Get Estimates
- Schedule in-home or video surveys with your top 3 companies.
- Request binding or not-to-exceed estimates from each.
- Ask the 15 essential questions during each survey.
- Get all estimates and terms in writing.
- Compare not just price, but insurance coverage, delivery window, and claims process.
- Reject any company that gives a phone-only estimate without seeing your belongings.
4 Weeks Before — Book & Prepare
- Choose your mover and sign the contract. Read every line before signing.
- Choose Full Value Protection, not Released Value. See our moving insurance guide.
- Consider third-party moving insurance for high-value items.
- Confirm the pickup and delivery dates in writing.
- Start decluttering — fewer items means lower weight, lower cost, and less risk.
- Create an inventory of high-value items with photos and estimated values.
2 Weeks Before — Pack & Document
- Start packing non-essential items. Label every box with contents and destination room.
- Photograph valuable items before packing. This is critical for damage claims.
- Set aside items you will transport yourself: important documents, medications, jewelry, electronics, irreplaceable items.
- Confirm your mover's arrival time and crew size.
- Arrange parking and elevator access at both locations if needed.
- Notify your mover of any access issues (narrow streets, stairs, long carry distances).
1 Week Before — Final Prep
- Confirm the pickup date and time with your mover one final time.
- Prepare a "moving day essentials" bag: phone charger, snacks, water, toiletries, change of clothes, important documents.
- Disassemble large furniture if your contract does not include this service.
- Defrost and clean your refrigerator (at least 24 hours before pickup).
- Have cash or credit card ready for payment. Never pay the full amount before delivery.
Moving Day — Stay Alert
- Verify the crew. Ask for the foreman's name and confirm they are from the company you hired (not a subcontractor you did not approve).
- Review the bill of lading before signing. This is a legally binding document. Confirm the pickup and delivery addresses, dates, and the estimated cost.
- Watch the loading process. Note how items are handled and wrapped.
- Check the inventory sheet. Make sure every item is listed and the condition is noted correctly. Do not sign if you disagree with the condition notes.
- Do not sign blank forms. If any fields are blank, fill them in or cross them out before signing. See our guide on spotting moving scams.
- Get the driver's contact number and a copy of all signed documents before the truck leaves.
Delivery Day — Inspect Everything
- Check every item against the inventory sheet as it comes off the truck.
- Note any damage on the inventory sheet before the driver leaves. Once the driver leaves, proving damage becomes much harder.
- Photograph any damaged items immediately.
- If items are missing, note them on the inventory sheet and contact the company in writing the same day.
- Pay the agreed amount. If the driver demands more than your binding estimate, refer to your contract and call the company's office. Do not pay under pressure.
- File a damage claim within 9 months if anything is damaged or missing.