Before You Move!
1. How do I know I selected the right moving company?
A reputable mover will be licensed and insured by the US Department of Transportation. Every moving company will have a MC (motor carrier) license number. Remember to ask the mover for references.
2. How can I be sure that my estimate is accurate?
Final prices are determined by information provided by you to the mover. Remember to give the moving company as much information as you can. (Remember to even mention the boxes in the basement… at the end you will be charged for them.)
3. When does the moving estimate price change?
Additional charges may be incurred for the following reasons:
a. Your shipment is delivered to a location with extra flights of stairs outside of your front door.
b. Access to your residence is more than 75 feet from the mover`s parked truck to your front door.
c. The drop off location is not accessible to the movers regular line haul.
4. How do I pay for my move?
Most movers require a deposit at the time of the reservation. Cash, cashier checks and money orders are the most common methods of payment that moving companies accept. Personal checks are not an accepted form of payment.
5. How am I charged for packing?
Packing charges are based on the number of boxes packed by the moving company. Packing charges can be very expensive; our recommendation is to do much of the packing you can on your own. It`s a good idea to have the mover professionally wrap all glass items.
6. What is not covered for damage?
Movers generally do not assume responsibility for the following:
a. Items that were packed by you.
b. Loss or damage due to breakage of china, glassware or similar fragile items, unless packed and unpacked by the mover or unless visible exterior damage is done to the container and documented on delivery.
c. Mechanical operating condition of appliances and electronics.
d Missing items not specifically inventoried by the driver and documented as missing on delivery.
e. Items previously broken, repaired or glued.
f. Damage to items not documented on delivery.
7. If there is any damage, how long do I have to file a claim?
Although you have nine months to file a claim, you are most likely to receive a settlement if you document damage on delivery and file with 30 days.
8. When should I make the reservation for my move?
A mover can accommodate most moves if he has at least two weeks notice, with a firm date. More time is preferable, particularly during high season (Memorial Day to Labor Day). Some moving companies will also do last minute moves. Call the moving company and find out about rates for last minute moves.
9. Are there any items I should not ship?
Do not pack or ship flammable items, propane tanks, liquid detergents, aerosol cans or any items that may cause damage to your belongings. It is forbidden by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for movers to transport live plants, especially across state lines. This could void the insurance coverage if there is an unforeseen accident.
10. How do I keep communications lines open on my moving day?
Telephone and utilities should not be turned off until the day after you move. Remember to give the moving company all contact phone numbers.
