While you cannot predict unforeseen circumstances, such as bad weather, that may delay an interstate move, you can control other conditions if you avoid the common mistakes listed below that people make when moving long distance. With proper planning and documentation, you can increase the chances that your move will go smoothly.

Waiting Too Long to Hire Movers

In order to make sure that you can move on an ideal date with reputable movers, you should call moving companies at least eight weeks before you move out of state. The longer you wait to find interstate movers, the harder it will be to secure the moving date you desire, especially if you are relocating during a busy time of the year such as summer.

Furthermore, you have a better chance of securing trustworthy movers if you call early. Some movers may also offer deals if you book your moving date many weeks in advance.

Be wary of fly-by-night, unlicensed moving companies that promise last minute moves and sketchy sounding deals.

Fail to Show Movers All Items That Need to Be Shipped

The best way to get an accurate estimate of how much it is going to cost you to move is to have movers come to your home. They will conduct an in-home estimate based on what you show them. Consequently, it is in your best interest to show the movers everything, or else they can charge you a higher amount than what is listed on your estimate.

Do not forget to inform movers about the layout of your new home, such as distance from the curb, stairs and other conditions that may affect how fast your belongings can be unloaded.

Omit Conducting a Background Check on Movers

After you review the estimates of at least a few movers that you called for an in-home consultation and make a hiring decision, you need to conduct a background check. Make sure that the mover is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and has an identification number issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The FMCSA provides a free online database of registered movers.

The mover you hire should be also be insured and bonded. Steps you should take when screening movers include:

• Calling the Better Business Bureau to find out details on the company's reputation
• Asking the mover if they are members of any industry associations
• Requesting proof of insurance

Neglecting to Learn About Your Rights and Forgetting to Obtain Proper Documentation

When you are moving to another state, you have certain federal rights when you hire a mover. All interstate movers are required by federal law to provide you with the FMCSA brochure "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move." Review the federal regulations in the brochure so you fully understand your rights.

In addition to preparing a detailed estimate, interstate movers are also required to provide you with an "Order for Service." This document clearly states the agreement for loading your belongings and delivering them by a specified date.

Interstate movers must also give you a "Table of Measurements." This document is a list of every single box, piece of furniture, appliance or other object that the mover will deliver. Also known as a "Cube Sheet," movers use this document to determine the overall weight and size of the move.

Begin Packing Without a Checklist and an Inventory

Creating a moving checklist and inventory will save you headaches during your move. With a checklist you will not forget to complete important tasks or meet crucial deadlines such as making sure your kid's school records are delivered to their new school on time.

You will not misplace items if all of your boxes are labeled correctly with their contents included on your inventory. You can download free checklists and inventory templates to help you get started.

Pack Important Documents in Boxes for the Moving Truck

Some things should not be included in moving boxes that go on trucks. This includes important personal documents that you cannot risk getting lost. Documents that you should keep with you include:

• Passports
• Birth certificates
• Insurance policies
• Medical records
• Social Security cards
• Financial records, stocks and bonds

If you have valuable collections of stamps, coins, baseball cards or other memorabilia, keep those items with you as well.