A city where households move often
Huntsville, the seat of Madison County, has grown around Redstone Arsenal, built during World War II, and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, which opened in 1960. Military, government and contractor households arrive and leave often. This guide covers choosing a mover, protecting belongings and what to do if something goes wrong.
Step 1: Check the mover
The Alabama Public Service Commission requires a certificate or permit when household goods are moved by motor vehicle for pay from one point in Alabama to another, unless the move is exempted by law. For an in-state move, ask the mover for their PSC certificate or permit and check it.
Step 2: Get written estimates
- Ask for an in-home or video survey.
- Get a written estimate that lists labor, truck, packing, materials and extra charges.
- Ask whether the price can change and what would change it.
- Ask what protection the mover offers for damage and how claims work.
Step 3: Plan around the heat
NOAA's engineering weather data for the Huntsville/Madison station gives a 1% summer design temperature of 92°F with a mean coincident wet-bulb of 75°F. Summer moves are hot and humid.
- Schedule early-morning starts in summer.
- Keep water for the crew and your family.
- Move heat-sensitive items, such as candles, vinyl records, medicines and electronics, in your air-conditioned car.
Step 4: Document
- Photograph furniture and valuables, including existing marks.
- Make a box inventory by room.
- Carry jewelry, documents and medicines yourself.
Step 5: Moving day
- Walk through with the crew lead.
- Check the inventory as items are loaded.
- Do a final walkthrough of the empty home.
Step 6: Delivery
- Check items as they are unloaded and note damage on the paperwork before signing.
- Unpack breakables soon and photograph any damage.
Step 7: If something goes wrong
1. Note damage or missing items on the paperwork, with photos. 2. Contact the mover in writing and ask for their claim process and deadline. 3. Keep copies of everything. 4. Ask your homeowners or renters insurer whether it covers anything the mover does not.
Military and relocation moves
If your employer or the military is paying for the move, ask the relocation office about its own claim process and deadlines; they may differ from the mover's.
Step 8: Settle in
Rekey the locks, update your address and keep the mover's paperwork until claims are settled.
Records
Keep estimates, contracts, inventories, photos and claim correspondence together.
Packing tips that prevent claims
Pack heavy items such as books in small boxes and light items in large ones. Wrap dishes individually and stand plates on edge. Label each box with the room and a short list of contents, and mark boxes with fragile items on several sides. If the mover packs for you, ask whether their protection also covers items you packed yourself, and on what terms.