Moving cross-country was month-long ordeal for local couple

On Aug. 10, the couple hired United States Van Lines to help them move from their home in Lillington to Rio Rancho, N.M., for a new job.

Little did they know, they wouldn't see most of their stuff for 35 days.

Instead of heading west, all of their furniture ended up at a warehouse in Greensboro belonging to subcontractor MBM Moving Systems.

When their belongings finally arrived in New Mexico – the last of them on Tuesday – furniture was broken, cups were chipped and cracked, and glass on decorations was shattered.

Now, the couple is in the process of filing damage claims.

The North Carolina Movers Association advises customers, especially if they are moving to another state, to never book a move over the Internet. It's not always clear where the moving company is located.

If the name on the moving truck is different from the company name on the contract, don't let the movers begin moving until you find out about the switch.

By law, you're entitled to $30 reimbursement for every day past the promised delivery date when you move from one state to another

Finally, never sign any kind of waiver relieving a company of claims until you've received and inspected all of your belongings.

As for the Leacocks, they say they are relieved they've finally gotten back all their belongings.

Michael Garcia, an attorney for United States Van Lines, admits the company messed up but says it is trying to figure out the best way to correct the situation.