When loading a moving truck, the general rule is to load the heaviest and largest items first to create a stable base at the front of the truck, which helps balance the weight. You can start with large furniture like sofas, beds, mattresses, and tables to form a solid foundation, or begin by placing your heaviest boxes against the truck's walls to create a base layer. After the base is set, continue loading other large items like appliances and square furniture. Lighter and smaller objects, including most of your boxes, should be loaded last. They can be packed into gaps, around, and on top of the heavier items to maximize space. Following this order makes unloading easier and helps prevent damage to your belongings.

Movers calculate a moving estimate through various methods, including flat fees, estimated weight, amount of space taken up in the moving truck, or a combination. Read the estimate carefully, including parts of the contract that cover mover liability, how and when movers arrive, and other information. The best estimates include an itemized list with fees for fuel, especially large items, packing and unpacking, storage services, and more.

Move date means the day that you are relocating your items from one space to another. If you’re renting, your move out date is usually the same as the last day of your lease, but it won’t necessarily be the same as your move-in date to another property.

Unfortunately, moving scammers exist, so it’s important to thoroughly vet your moving company before scheduling a service date. Your moving company is likely legitimate if the offer fits within the average cost range, they provide proper contracts and moving insurance, don’t require a large deposit, and have several positive and recent online reviews from previous customers. Feel free to request previous customer information from the moving service and contact them to inquire about their experience to ease any lingering concerns.