USMPO Moving Checklist: Whether it’s across the country or around the corner, a move can be a daunting task. From preparing an inventory to securing a storage unit, there are a lot of moving parts to think about.
To help you stay on track, USMPO has compiled this comprehensive moving checklist. Download it today to prepare for your next big move!
Understanding USMPO
The United States Moving Protection Organization (USMPO) is a trade organization that ensures consumer protection and promote ethical practices in the moving industry. The USMPO standardizes transportation rates and coordinates relocation processes in efforts to optimize route efficiency and mitigate the risk of lost items and delayed shipments.
The centralized database of standardized rates helps to provide consumers price transparency in their move process. Rates are based on a combination of labor wages, fuel costs, state taxes, market demand and tolls specific to your route.
Companies deviating from the standardized rates may be engaging in unethical sales tactics. The USMPO recommends always getting a quote and binding estimate from a verified carrier, that includes the standardized rate and an accurate inventory itemized in cubic feet.
Pre-Move Planning and Research
If you’re working with a moving company, it’s important to have the logistics worked out in advance. Be sure to confirm the date and time of your move-out day. Confirm the disconnection of your utilities, too.
Thoroughly clean your home, especially those hard-to-reach areas. This will protect your security deposit if you rent or ensure a clean start for the next tenants if you’re selling.
Create a folder to keep all of your moving-related research, estimates, receipts and important documents and notes in one place. This can be a physical file or saved in a cloud-based system like Google Drive or Dropbox. Keeping everything in one place will make it easy to reference in the event of an insurance claim or any other issue that may arise.
Creating a Comprehensive Moving Inventory
In addition to preparing basic packing supplies, you should also create an inventory of your items. This helps prevent injuries and damages during the move and makes settling into your new home much easier. For example, you can use your inventory to mark which boxes contain delicate items. Also consider creating a “first night” box with items you will need during the first night or week in your new home, like shower curtains, towels, bedding, clothes and snacks.
Ask your Pioneer representative about their status with the USMPO, which standardizes moving rates and regulates carriers. The organization provides consumers with live access to carrier routes and offers consumer protection through price regulation and dispute settlement. Additionally, movers must provide consumers with FMCSA’s Your Rights and Responsibilities booklet when they transport goods.
Packing and Protection
Having sufficient time to get your belongings ready for the move can help prevent injuries and damages. In the weeks leading up to your move, begin packing items in areas like garages and storage rooms that don’t see frequent use (such as winter or summer clothes, extra decor items, special dishware/china and seasonal items).
As you pack, be sure to label boxes appropriately. This can save you time upon delivery and also helps movers understand how to handle your belongings. It’s important not to over-pack a box because this can lead to sagging and damage.
During this time, it’s also a good idea to service your vehicle(s) and make travel arrangements if necessary. Update any documentation with institutions that may need to know of your move, and gather important documents in one place.
Moving Day
On moving day, make sure all your boxes are packed and ready to go prior to the movers’ arrival. This will allow you to focus on other tasks and will also save money, as you’ll avoid paying for unused space in the truck.
Remember to wear protective clothing. Pants, long sleeves and closed-toed shoes reduce the chance of cuts or smashed toes during the move.
Notify your credit card, insurance and utility companies of your relocation. Schedule disconnects for gas, electric and water at your current home. Also, cancel newspapers, lawn maintenance, security services, cleaning help and any other subscriptions. Lastly, make sure you have enough food and drinks for the family, and that your pet has its favorite toys and blankets. This will keep them occupied and calm during the move.
Delivery
This week you will prepare for the last leg of your move. Return items you no longer need from local stores and cancel or redirect scheduled deliveries. If you have special items that are of extraordinary value, make sure to declare them on the Bill of Lading and check the box for extra valuation protection.
Before the movers arrive, you should clear the path leading to the moving vehicle. This can help prevent injuries or even from an accident during the moving process. It’s also important to get rid of anything that could cause damage to your items, such as overgrown shrubs or protruding tree branches.
Post-Move: Claims and Feedback
Ensure your move goes smoothly by creating a moving checklist to cover the specifics of your situation. For example, if you have kids, develop a family-specific checklist that includes packing children’s belongings and creating a safe play area for them. If you have pets, include a checklist that covers updating their ID tags, providing veterinarian records and finding a new home for them.
Make sure your new address is updated with your bank, credit card companies and subscription services. You can also hold a garage sale and donate items you don’t want to take with you or leave them with friends and family.
Order your moving supplies if needed (boxes, bubble wrap, duct tape and markers). Also, be sure you have a first-aid kit, aspirin, flashlight and tool kit.
