Hiring a mover? Explore your rights, responsibilities

Your home sale has finally closed and it’s time to move.

How do you choose a home mover and what is that company’s liability?

More than 40 million Americans move each year for personal reasons and career opportunities. It’s a significant event in anyone’s life. Your money, your memories are at stake. It can also be stressful, even under the best of circumstances. Know how to avoid one of the most stressful situations that can arise; protect yourself from dishonest, “rogue” movers.

In general, your mover is legally liable for loss or damage that occurs during performance of any transportation of household goods and of all related services identified in the moving contract.

For tips and terms on home moving, plus your rights and responsibilities during a move, check out the U.S. Department of Transportation’s publication on packing and moving.