Consumers should follow these suggestions to avoid moving-day problems:

• Find a reputable moving company. Ask your neighbors, friends, co-workers or relatives for recommendations about which mover to use. Contact the Better Business Bureau (303-758-2100) to see if they have information about the company.
  
  
• Check to determine whether the mover is registered with the Public Utilities Commission and has proper insurance. To obtain this information, call 303-894-2000 (Denver metro area) or 1-800-456-0858 (outside Denver metro area).
  
  
• Plan your move well ahead of time, 2-6 weeks if possible.
  
  
• Obtain written estimates from several movers and compare costs and all other services to be provided by the mover. Be suspicious of estimates that are significantly lower than the rest.
  
  
• Beware of estimates made over the phone. Most movers will need to see your goods in order to make an accurate estimate of moving costs.
  
  
• Know which company is actually providing the move. Some companies that advertise moving services are simply brokers that do not move goods. Obtain information about how to contact the mover before, during and after the move.
  
  
• Find out what the mover’s responsibilities are for damages that may occur to your belongings.
  
  
• Do not sign blank or incomplete documents or allow anyone representing you to do so. Make sure you get everything in writing, including signed estimates.
  
  
• Be present when movers arrive at your house and stay until they are finished.
  
  
• If at all possible, make sure your new residence is available for occupancy prior to the commencement of the initial move. Direct movements historically result in fewer problems on the other end. Be there to obtain your goods and have the agreed-upon amount and method of payment ready.
  

The Public Utilities Commission at DORA regulates intrastate
household movers.

Reach the PUC Consumer Affairs Section at 303-894-2070 or 1-800-456-0858 (outside the Denver metro area)

File a Complaint with the PUC

See if a moving company is registered with the PUC and has active insurance

Complaints about interstate moves, are handled through the federal household goods hotline or by calling 1-888-368-7238

Other Resources:

Denver/Boulder Better Business Bureau, 303-758-2100

Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration, 1-888-368-7238