Before the moving agent arrives at your house for your estimate you need to determine what items will be moved and what will be discarded. Don?t forget to check the attic and basement and be sure to show your agent everything you will be moving.

If you plan to do the packing yourself, start collecting suitable containers and packing materials. See our packing section for tips and advise. Set packing goals and deadlines so you are well prepared for your moving day.

Dispose of all flammables such as cleaning fluids, aerosol cans, fireworks and matches. Drain the fuel from your power mower and other machinery. See our section on Suggestions and Instructions for further information. Discard partly used containers of any substance that may leak.

If you are moving items of high value, obtain a current written appraisal of antique items to verify their value. Don't wax or oil wood furniture before moving, because some products may soften the wood, making it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.

Unplug all electronic equipment such as television sets, personal computers, stereos, etc., 24 hours in advance of a move so they will be at room temperature on moving day. Visit our section on Preparing Electronics? and Appliances for more information. How to select a mover

Moving to a new home can be exciting but when choosing your mover it is important to select a qualified moving professional to ensure that the process will go as smoothly as planned. It is highly recommended that you choose a mover that is willing to travel to your residence to give you an estimate. There have been several reports in the news regarding customers who have hired less-than-reputable movers they found via the Internet, resulting in inferior service levels. In an effort to help consumers protect themselves against questionable practices, we have compiled a list of tips to help in choosing a professional mover.

Preplanning can help to reduce the possibility of problems during the move process. By following these steps in choosing your mover, you are more likely to have a safer, easier and more cost effective transition into your new home.

Where to Begin

Start your search for a mover by asking your friends, relatives, and business associates about movers they have used and liked. Chances are their recommended movers are listed in the Yellow Pages under "Movers" but beware, just because a mover has paid for a large ad does not necessarily mean the company is reputable. Once you've compiled a list of potential movers, Check with your State's Department of Transportation to confirm that the mover is licensed. To verify your movers business reputation visit the website or call your local Better Business Bureau, or other consumer organizations in your local area. Another important question would be to ask how long the company has been in the moving business. Long term experience and training can make the difference between a good move and a great move.

Pricing your Move

Compare prices by obtaining at least two on-site estimates, which movers should provide free of charge.

Unless you are moving just a few boxes, insist that a moving representative prepare an estimate at your residence after seeing exactly what is to be moved and determining what services you require. Don't rely on a quote provided sight-unseen over the phone (or over the Internet). You are generally charged for the actual weight of your shipment and the actual services provided, and you are better off meeting face-to-face with the mover's representative to ensure that you both understand what is involved. During your in-home visit you should also be asked questions about your new home as well, including elevators, truck access, low hanging power lines, etc. If you obtain multiple quotes and one is substantially lower than the rest, be careful. Quoted prices that are dramatically lower than the rest of the competition are probably too good to be true. If one of your weight quote's is significantly out of line with the others could indicate a flawed estimate.

How to Choose from similar estimates References are important. If a mover was not recommended by someone you know, ask for the names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. Then call them!

How attentive was the salesperson? Do you have confidence that he or she will be there to help you, through planning, packing, loading, and delivery of your shipment?

Take a drive past the mover's facilities. Does it reflect the level of quality and professionalism you expect in a service provider? If you are planning on placing your items into storage you should be able to take a tour of the facility. Most warehouses' are open during normal business hours but will be closed at lunch. Ask your sales representative when would be a good time to stop by. Keep in mind that as a matter of security you will not be able to tour the warehouse on your own and in most cases would need to call ahead.

Timing is important

The summer months are "peak" moving season, if you can be flexible about when you move, don't wait until the summer. The winter holiday season also tends to be busy so if you need to move during those time periods it is best to plan ahead. It is also important to note that the last week of the month is usually a busy time for movers.

For more information including tips on packing please visit Our Packing Tips section. International

United Van Lines has dedicated staff that can assist you in the extensive preparation necessary for relocating overseas. Our memberships in both domestic and international moving associations provide you with reputable, qualified agents worldwide.

At origin, your household goods are packed and then loaded by the same local crew into heavy-duty air-sea containers. Your furniture and appliances are further protected by export wrap, specially developed for the high rate of handling involved in international moving.

Because proper planning and implementation can make all the difference when transitioning to a new location, we begin by providing you with a "single-point-of-contact" for your relocation. A Personal Move Manager (PMM) will be assigned to ensure the safe and convenient transportation of your belongings by explaining the moving process and developing a plan of action. Depending on your needs, your move will be arranged for transit by rail, air, or sea using our expertise in customs clearance and international moving practices

After your goods are sent, our In-Transit Service allows you to receive status updates on the movement of your shipment via the Internet. In addition, your PMM will contact you during the delivery to address any immediate questions or concerns, and once again in 7-10 days to assess your satisfaction with the quality of the move.

With over ninety years of international experience, plus a single point of contact and hands-on control, you can be assured you?ll enjoy a smooth transition anywhere in the world.