Moving from one home to another can be stressful enough, but the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) says you can reduce that stress by mastering some of the basics.

Understand binding and non-binding estimates. Binding estimates guarantee the move’s cost based on items moved and services listed on the estimate sheet. Remember, items or services added later will result higher charges and may cause delays. By law, once the mover arrives at destination, the driver cannot ask you to pay more than the binding estimate before unloading unless you added items or services not included in the estimate.

A non-binding estimate is not guaranteed. Final cost is determined after certified weighing of the shipment, and the final cost could exceed the estimate. However, the driver cannot legally demand payment for more than 110% of the non-binding estimate before unloading. You then have at least 30 days to pay remaining charges.

The not-to-exceed estimate -- sometimes called “guaranteed price” or “price protection” -- is based on a binding estimate or actual cost, whichever is lower. Like a binding estimate, a it must be in writing and is binding on the mover. The driver cannot collect more at destination before unloading.

Be present when goods are packed. Proper packing by a trained packer using specially designed materials is crucial. Schedule the mover to pack a day or two before loading the van.

If packing yourself, it’s never too soon to start. Although this can save money, movers usually won’t accept liability for damaged items packed by owners. Consider packing non-breakable items only, like clothes and bedding.

After the driver makes an inventory of your goods, resolve any disagreements prior to signing it. Copies should be legible and all items numbered. List valuable items separately. If appliances require servicing prior to moving, your mover can do this.

You may be asked to select several consecutive days for loading, and a second series of dates for delivery. This allows mover flexibility to keep the move on schedule.

Adequately insure your goods. Unless you purchase additional coverage, all interstate household goods shipments move under limited liability of 60 cents per pound. Without additional coverage, for example, if a 10-pound stereo component worth $1,000 is lost or destroyed, your mover is liable for only $6 (10 pounds X 60 cents).

We recommend purchase of full (replacement) value protection, the most comprehensive protection available. Cost depends on the value declared for your goods. Articles lost or damaged will be repaired, replaced or a cash settlement is made for repairs or replacement at current market value, regardless of age. For more complete on loss and damage coverage, see AMSA’s consumer advice website at www.moving.org.

Report loss and damage promptly. If goods are damaged or lost, report this promptly and in detail on the driver's copy of the inventory sheet before signing. If you notice damage after unpacking, you must file a claim within nine months after delivery.

The mover must acknowledge receiving the claim within 30 days and deny or make a settlement offer within 120 days. When making a claim, keep in mind the amount of liability that you declared on your shipment. If the value you declared was $10,000, the mover's maximum liability is $10,000.

What to do on moving day. When moving day arrives:

The most common forms of assistance include:

• Be on hand when movers arrive.
• Discuss delivery arrangements fully with your mover.
• Have beds stripped and ready for packing.
• Save energy -- let the moving crew disassemble goods.
• Read the Bill of Lading (contract) before signing.
• Tell your mover how to reach you at destination. If he can’t reach your goods may be stored, adding cost.
• Keep in contact with the mover while in transit.
• Check goods for damage -- don’t sign the inventory until you inspect furniture and carton exteriors.

Sometimes, to keep costs down, belongings are transported along with other families’ that are heading in the same direction and delivered when agreed upon.

Make sure the mover knows how to contact you to schedule actual delivery.