Keep an eye on the moving companies
If you are planning a move, be sure to get written estimates from at least three moving companies, recommends the National Endowment for Financial Education. Ask for binding estimates, where your final bill cannot go higher than what you're quoted. A nonbinding estimate is not a contract but an approximation of the cost of the move, with the final costs based on the actual weight of your shipment and other services provided by the moving companies.
For interstate moves, the moving companies should provide you with the booklet "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" produced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can download a copy of it at the agency's Web site, http://www.protectyourmove.gov. This Web site is another must before you hire any moving companies. You will find details of the regulations that govern interstate movers, a list of registered and insured moving companies and information on how to file a complaint with the agency. You can also find contact information for issues if you're moving within the same state. Such moves are not covered by federal regulations.
If you're one of the millions planning to pack up and relocate, use caution in selecting a moving company or you could end up sitting on your own couch on the sidewalk.