Whether you're moving to Manhattan from another state, or moving
to Manhattan from another city within the state, it's a wise move to investigate your mover. In this article, we'll show you how.
First, look for movers in your hometown, it's easier to check up on them and deal with them if you have any issues.
Second, have at least 3 movers give you in-home estimates so they can see exactly what you need moved in order for you to get a more accurate estimate.
Third, watch out for a moving quote that's much lower than you get from other movers - you might end up paying more later.
If you're moving to New York from another state, the feds oversee your move - specifically, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which is part of the U.S. DOT. Make sure the moving company you pick has a USDOT number, is registered with FMCSA to transport household goods between states, and has the proper insurance.
You can check this by visiting
www.protectyourmove.gov, and check on potential moving companies, or calling FMCSA at (202) 366-9805 for licensing and (202) 385-2423 for insurance.
Check out the
Better Business Bureau as well to see the company doesn't have a lot of complaints that are unresolved.
If you're moving in Manhattan - for example, from New York City to Albany - you can check that the carrier is licensed by the Commissioner of Transportation by calling (800) 786-5368, or e-mailing the agency at nymoving@dot.state.ny.us. (If you're moving within New York City, try to use local
Manhattan movers.) When you call
to ask about
Manhattan moving companies, make sure you have the exact name and the company's NYDOT number, which should be listed on the company's paperwork.
* Make sure that the mover gives you an 'Order for Service' with the exact amount you will pay at delivery for your goods.
* Make sure you understand insurance options when picking a New York mover.
Ask your moving company about your options.
If you need to file a damage claim with your moving company, contact your mover.
If you want to make a complaint against a mover, you can file a complaint with the state; but please realize that the Department of Transportation can't award judgments or force moving companies to pay you any money for damages. However, because it's in charge of licensing movers, it does have some recourse to go after the movers. Include copies of all paperwork and correspondence between you and the moving company. Once the state receives the complaint, you will get a letter advising you how it will be handled.
To file a complaint,
fill out this form and send it to the following address:
New York State Department of Transportation
Office of Safety and Security Services
50 Wolf Road, POD 53
Albany, New York 12232
