Angie's List: Senior move managers take the stress out of downsizing

There are problems that can crop up during any residential move, but moving an elderly loved one can pose additional challenges.

To serve this growing niche, senior move management services have increased in the past decade. These companies help relocate seniors to another home, retirement community, or assisted living facility.

Senior move managers can help with all aspects of the senior move, or just a portion of it. You decide which services you need.

Professional moving services can include:

• Pack and unpack your belongings
• Moving your items
• Organize, sort, and donate your items.
• Creating a floor plan for your new home.
• Decorating the new home to match the old.

Angie’s List Tips: Hiring a moving service for seniors

• Don’t skip your research: Whether you’re looking for a senior move manager or a traditional mover, it’s important to research the company before you hire and get cost details in writing. A common complaint from consumers is being quoted one price before the move and being charged a higher price at the time of the move.
• Ask about costs: Most local movers charge by the hour, while longer distance moves are based on weight and distance. Fees vary depending on the services needed. Avoid movers who require large deposits. Request an in-home estimate. Most senior moving companies will offer a free consultation.
• Check qualifications: Always interview more than one company and ask about their service moving seniors. Check for membership in professional organizations, such as the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM).
• Ask about your insurance options: Most companies will offer free limited coverage, with additional insurance available for purchase. Check with your private home insurer to see if your policy covers damages incurred during a move.
• Ask about a written contract: Details and costs of the services should be clear in a contract. Don’t sign anything you don’t understand. Never sign off on the job until you’re sure there’s nothing missing or damaged. If you notice that a box is damaged at delivery, open it in the movers’ presence to confirm the condition of the articles in the box.