Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Almost everyone that moves has the same question "Where to begin?". The following is my Top 10 Steps for a Smooth Move. Of course, there are alot of things that you need to do to prepare for your move but the following are the most important for making your move as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Get three written in-home estimates. Be very cautious of over the phone or internet estimates. Over the phone or internet estimates are no more than guestimates and are never bound by any legal ramifications in regards to price. When the estimators arrive at you home show them everything that will be moved, including items in the attic(s), basement(s), garage(s), storage area(s), shed(s), etc. Out of the three estimates you receive two of them will be somewhat close in price, weight and service. I recommend that you select one of these two estimates. The third estimate will either be extremely high or extremely low. In either case you should avoid that carrier because they may not be giving you all the information. You should also make sure your estimates are Binding and Not To Exceed. Getting a non-binding estimate really defeats the purpose because ultimately the mover can charge you what ever he wants. For more information on estimates see the pamphlet labeled "Moving in North Carolina Your Rights and Responsibilities" or the brochure labeled Interstate Moving "Your Rights & Responsiblities".
Step 2: Avoid Carriers asking for large deposits. It is not uncommon for a carrier to ask for a deposit on your move. Typically this should be no more than 10% of your total cost. However, carriers asking for large down payments to hold dates or to reserve service should be avoided. Furthermore, make sure that what ever amount you put down on your move is 100% refundable.
Step 3: Carefully read all the "pre-move" documentation from your carrier. If you are moving within the State of North Carolina you should receive a pamphlet labeled "Moving in North Carolina Your Rights and Responsibilities" along with your estimate. If you are moving within the Continental United States you should receive a brochure labeled Interstate Moving "Your Rights & Responsiblities" a Ready To Move Pamphlet brochure and the "AMSA Household Goods Dispute Settlement Program" brochure.
Step 4: Ask questions. If at any time you do not understand something told to you either over the phone or in person, ask. The moving and transportation industry is very complex and has a language of its own. If you are unhappy or disatisfied with the answer(s) to your question(s) or if the carrier is very hesitant when you ask for clarification on something, you would be better off speaking to someone else. Feel free to contact another carrier should you need to. Below are some initial questions you should be asking:
Are you legally licensed and insured?
Are you a certified mover?
Can you guarantee my price with a "Not To Exceed"?
Are your men full time employees?
Can you provide references?
Step 5: If at all possible move during the Off-Peak Season. May through September is the busy season for almost all carriers. If you can avoid moving during these months, you will likely have a much smoother and better move. If you must move during the busy season try to move in the middle of the week and the middle of the month. Try to avoid the end of the month. All in all if you must move at the end of the during the busy season schedule your move as soon as possible and make sure you use a certified mover.
Step 6: Be reachable by phone. A good mover will contact you 2-3 days prior to your move to confirm your appointment and to go over the number men, rates, liability and to cover any charges listed on your estimate. If this is done it will save time and ensure that you and the mover are on the same page when it comes to moving day. Make sure you provide the driver with a direct number on the day of your move in case you are seperated. If it is an interstate move make sure you get the driver's name, license number, vehicle number and the plate for the truck. This will allow for fast and easy communication should something go wrong.
Step 7: Take all Personal Items and Valuables with You. Items such as checkbooks, medical documentation, credit cards, overnight clothing, cash, jewelry, photographs and any other important papers or items should be put aside or in your vehicle prior to the move. Putting them in your car is the most recommended because this will avoid having them accidently loaded in the truck causing you to have to find them later.
Step 8: Try to Relax. No matter how prepared you are things occasionally go wrong. Moving is one of the most stressful time in your life. Get a good night's sleep before moving day. If something does go wrong be patient and breath. Remember it is not what happened that matters it is how it is dealt with. A good moving company will be responsive and helpful during your move regardless of the situation.
Step 9: Do a Walk Through before leaving either residence. Make sure you conduct a walk through with the driver prior to him leaving the pick-up location. This will make sure that nothing is left behind and that the movers cleaned up their mess prior to leaving. Also make sure you do a walk through before the driver leaves your new home. Make sure that everything is placed where you want it. Check the beds any other furniture for proper assembly and finally check the truck to make sure that all items have been delivered.
Step 10: Use an AMSA Certified Mover. Make sure your mover is a member of the American Moving and Storage Association. Once you have verified that they are a member make sure they are Certified by the American Moving and Storage Association. It is very easy for companies to be a member but being certified assures you that you are dealing with a 100% legitimate mover backed by the American Moving & Storage Association. Visit AMSA's consumer website: http://www.moving.org/, the AMSA's Certified Mover and Van Line Program website: http://www.promover.org/NewMoving/COIC/certmover_I.htmland also visit the Department of Transportation's web site: http://www.protectyourmove.gov/.
Here at All My Sons Moving & Storage we strive to provide the smoothest and most enjoyable moving experience possible. I hope these tips help you with your move. Should you have any questions please feel free to contact us directly or leave your questions here on the blog and I will answer them asap.
