If you're moving across the country, there's a good chance you'll arrive at your new home ahead of your belongings. Don't panic. Many factors affect delivery time, and moving companies generally won't guarantee a specific delivery date. Your moving company representative will call to give you a spread of two specific times between which your delivery should take place.

Unloading and Taking Inventory

• Ask for the driver's inventory sheets; as each box is carried into the house, have the workers call out the box numbers so you can check them off
  When the movers have finished unloading (and, if you purchase the service, unpacking) your boxes, you will be asked to sign the inventory sheet; check it carefully before signing.
  
• Do not sign any delivery papers until you have checked that all boxes and items have been received. By signing the delivery receipt, you acknowledge that you have received everything and agree with the driver as to the condition of your belongings.
  
• Make a written note of any missing boxes or damage to boxes, furniture or other items
  If you suffer property damage or damage to your automobiles, you must note the damages on the inventory sheet and call your moving company immediately.

Unpacking
For an additional charge, moving companies will unpack your boxes, including taking out your belongings, placing them on flat surfaces (e.g., floors, countertops), and then removing the cartons from your home.

Insurance Claims
We hope you won't need to file any insurance claims for damaged goods. But if you do, here's how to go about it:

• If damage occurs, call your moving company immediately to get the necessary forms to file your claim(s)
  
• Keep your damaged items; they must be available for inspection by the claims adjuster
  
• You must file any and all claims involving interstate moves within a specific number of days after the delivery date, depending on your insurance policy
  
• If your belongings are first delivered to storage and then to a temporary residence, you must file any claims within a specific number of days or before you leave that residence, whichever comes first