Moving Checklist

Before Your Move – Choose Your Mover Carefully

All movers must be properly registered with an “Active” TxDMV certificate number for intrastate moves (moves within the state). Ask the mover to provide their TxDMV number and then verify that the number is “ACTIVE” by calling 1-888-368-4689 or Click Here.
All registered movers are required to file a listing of their maximum rates (tariff) with the department. Request a copy from your mover or contact the department at the toll-free number above.
Plan ahead and be prepared. Inform the mover of all items to be moved and services you’re expecting (i.e., intermediate stops, third floor moves, long distance carries, elevators, etc.) as this may impact your charges.
Ask questions. Don’t rely on verbal agreements. Make sure all arrangements regarding your move are documented.
All movers are required to provide you with a written proposal and contract PRIOR to loading your move. Obtain a signed written contract.
All movers are required to provide you with a “Rights and Responsibilities” brochure. Obtain a copy of this document.
All movers assume liability for no more than .60 cents per pound per article. Ask your mover if they offer a higher level of liability. Keep in mind, this is not Insurance.
If you want to insure your items ask the mover if they offer transit insurance or contact an insurance company.
Check the condition of all your items prior to the move and inquire about an inventory with the mover.
Read all documents and understand all charges before you sign anything.

During Your Move - Packing & Loading

If you’re doing you own packing, pack with appropriate cartons and don’t overload. Label all fragile cartons.
Keep all valuables, important documents and medications with you. Remember, the mover’s liability is .60 cents per pound per article.
Accompany the mover if an inventory is conducted. Sign and agree to the inventoried items PRIOR to and AFTER the move.
Be available to the mover during the move to answer any questions or to give further instructions.
All movers are required to obtain your signature on the Moving Services Contract PRIOR to loading your shipment. Read the document before you sign it.
Take a final look around to make sure nothing is left behind.

Delivery

Supervise the unloading of your shipment.
Check the condition of your items. Notify the mover immediately on any damaged items and notate it on all copies of your moving services contract.
Be prepared to pay the maximum amount listed on the written proposal.
All movers are required to provide you with a completed copy of the moving services contract upon delivery of your shipment, including an itemized billing of all charges.
If an inventory document was prepared, the mover is required to have you sign the document at the destination point.

Moving in Texas

Moving can be an expensive and stressful experience if you hire the wrong moving company. Hiring a mover who isn't licensed with TxDMV can put you at risk of losing your belongings. Keep in mind that the lowest price may not turn out to be the best deal. Some unwary customers may fall prey to dishonest moving companies and end up losing more than their material possessions.

Check whether a moving company is licensed and search for them in the TxDMV database. A licensed mover will have an "Active" TxDMV certificate number on file. Remember, the mover you hire will handle and transport your prized possessions.

Spotting an Unlicensed Mover

Low Priced Moves

If it's too good to be true, it probably is. What may look like a low cost move may not turn out to be a smart move. Unlicensed movers may advertise a very low cost for a move then increase the price once your items are loaded onto their truck. Your items would be in their custody until you pay the higher price.

Generic Contact Information

Unlicensed movers typically have no local business address, use cell phones as their business phones, answer the phone with vague terms as "Movers" or "Moving Company". Ask questions. Ask the mover to give you their TxDMV certificate number then check their number in the TxDMV database.

Unmarked Trucks

Unlicensed movers will typically have no markings on their trucks or use rental trucks. TxDMV requires all licensed movers to have their name, TxDMV certificate number, USDOT number on both sides of their truck either permanently attached or with a magnetic sign.

No Proposal/Contract Documents

Unlicensed movers may not provide you with a proposal or contract document, or, may rush you through a contract form and make you sign it before reading it.

A licensed mover will provide you with both a proposal and a contract document and will ask you to sign it at different stages of the move. A licensed mover will not assess additional charges after the contract is signed unless you both agree to them in writing. Please make sure you read any documents before you sign them.

No "Rights and Responsibility" brochure provided

All licensed movers are required to provide you this document prior to loading your items.