Seven Fatal Mistakes Consumers Make When Relocating
I continue to read horror stories from consumers about their bad experiences with moving companies. The refrain is always the same: the big, bad, moving company overcharged me, damaged my goods and will not pay up. Well, I have appraised moving damage claims for over 25 years, and I can tell you that the problem is not just the moving companies. Consumers invite problems, because they do not

How To Collect Art Confidently
I have spent the last six months as a Fine Art Auctioneer aboard cruise ships sailing in Northern Europe, the Caribbean, and Alaska. The crowds at my auctions were a mix of veteran art collectors, newbie art collectors, the curious,the bored,and the lost. Some of them bought art, but most did not. Those that did not buy had a similar refrain: they were not comfortable enough in their knowledge of

Where To Find A Good Moving Company
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration estimates that only about a third of all internet moving brokers meet federal registration requirements. That means that two out of three moving companies are operating outside the rules. Yet, most people start their search for a mover online. Yes, there are many reputable companies to be found online. The company you hire will most assuredly

How To Estimate The Weight Of Your Household Goods For Moving
Moving companies are often wrong when it comes to estimating the weight and value of your household goods shipment. Some estimators do a pretty good job, but there is such high turnover in the industry that you never know how experienced your estimator really is. If you make your contract decision based on price, you may be in for a big surprise when the driver hands you the final bill at your

You Can Pay Attention Or Pay A Higher Price But Either Way You'll Pay
About five years ago, I was asked to inspect a moving damage claim on Maryland's Eastern Shore. The movers' truck had flipped over on an exit ramp and rolled down a hill. When I arrived at the customer's home to inspect the damage, I found the worst mess I've ever seen on a moving claim. I found the metal sleeper sofa frame twisted and unusable, and wooden furniture crushed and broken. The