Many New York City movers offer comprehensive service including packing, carting and transporting. The Yellow Pages may have about two dozen sheets listing them. How does one choose, particularly when there are reported instances of movers giving false addresses and cheating customers?

The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), Better Business Bureau and the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) maintain lists of dependable movers. Make a shortlist of a few who are members of the AMSA. They are supposed to abide by the published tariff and arbitration procedure of the Association. Obtain indicative estimates from them over the telephone or Internet, and compare.

Before committing, pay a visit to their offices and garages. Have a look at their trucks and equipment. This could give you an indication of their class. The next step would be to ask them to send representatives to your place to give a firm or binding quotation.

The factors that are considered for pricing include charges for labor and truck, both normally on an hourly basis, and the cost of packaging materials, which the movers provide. Normally there would also be a charge for travel time from the garage to the customer's place. Be alert about hidden costs. Workmen of good service providers aren't allowed to take a break at the customer's cost. Though not encouraged by reputed movers, it is preferable to give a tip if you are satisfied with the work.

Make sure that the mover makes a list of every item to be transferred. You should check and endorse it. Equally important is to know about insurance and the damage compensation policy of the mover you select. Insurance for the full replacement cost of valuables is advisable and the coverage should be effective from the start of packing.

A good mover would actually save you time and losses.