What to Expect on Moving Day: Long Distance Edition

Long distance moving day is different from a local move in several important ways. The crew may be with you for the entire day, the paperwork is more substantial, and once that truck leaves, your belongings are on the road for days. Here's exactly what to expect.

Before the Crew Arrives

• Have all boxes packed, sealed, and labeled before the crew arrives
• Disassemble furniture that needs it (unless movers are doing this)
• Clear a path from each room to the front door
• Reserve parking for the moving truck (may require permits in cities)
• Have water and snacks for the crew — it's a long day
• Have your payment method ready (cash, check, or card depending on what's agreed)

When the Crew Arrives

The lead mover (foreman) will introduce themselves and do a walkthrough of your home. This is your chance to:

• Point out fragile or special items
• Show items that are NOT going on the truck
• Discuss any access issues (stairs, tight corners, low ceilings)
• Ask any final questions

The Inventory Process

Before loading, the mover will create a detailed inventory list (also called a household goods descriptive inventory) of every item being moved. For each item, they'll note:

• The item description
• The quantity
• The condition (pre-existing scratches, dents, or damage)

Review the inventory carefully before signing. If they note damage on a piece of furniture that isn't actually damaged, dispute it before signing. This inventory is what protects you if something is damaged.

The Bill of Lading

The Bill of Lading is the legal contract for your move. It includes:

• Your origin and destination addresses
• The agreed price and type of estimate
• The services being performed
• The delivery window
• Valuation coverage selected
• Payment terms

Read it in full before signing. Make sure the price matches your estimate. Keep your copy — you'll need it if you file a damage claim.

During Loading

• You don't need to supervise every move, but stay available to answer questions
• Do a room-by-room walkthrough with the foreman before they start to confirm what's going
• Check closets, cabinets, and built-in shelves as rooms are emptied
• Don't leave — be present until the truck is loaded and leaving

The Weight Ticket

For weight-based estimates (non-binding moves), the truck is weighed at a certified scale before and after loading at your home. You have the right to be present for the reweigh. The difference in weight is your shipment's weight, which determines the final price.

After the Truck Leaves

• Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, attic, garage, and outdoor area
• Check behind doors, inside cabinets, and under beds
• Turn off all lights, lock all windows and doors
• Take photos of each empty room (protects you for security deposit purposes)
• Return keys as arranged

What Happens Next

Your belongings are now in transit. The delivery window you agreed to is when to expect them. During transit:

• Keep contact with your moving coordinator for status updates
• Be available by phone as you approach your delivery window
• Confirm your delivery address and access instructions with the driver
• Arrange parking for the moving truck at your new home