HOW TO CHOOSE A MOVING COMPANY

Moving Tips

• The moving industry has "peak" and "off peak" seasons. The "peak" season for movers is during the summer, as is the beginning and the end of every month. During that period of time the demand for a mover is heavy.
• If you move is during a peak time or season, your costs will probably be higher. If your move can be rescheduled for a time that is less busy, you may be able to reduce your moving costs.
• Contact the movers to set up appointments for an On-site estimate. A relocation consultant will come to your home and do a visual inventory of the contents of your home that you are planning to move. He will then prepare a written, guaranteed offer for your move. It is important for you to know that there is more than one type of estimate. Ours is different than an hourly rate estimate, which can, and usually does, fluctuate on the day of the move, usually up.
• Decide what items you want to ship and what will be discarded. Inspect your home from top to bottom or from attic to basement before the relocation consultant will arrive. Show the consultant everything that you will be moving.
• Be certain that the mover has marked all items that are going and not going on the survey sheet. The mover will prepare an estimate that will include all charges for the services that you requested. Keep in mind that if you decide to take more items or take fewer items, your relocation consultant must be notified, as this is different than the services agreed upon, and necessitates a revised written estimate and price to reflect these changes. This must be done prior to the day of the move. We recommend that you review the agreement at least three business days prior to your move, and alert your representative of any and all changes to your inventory and services needed, such as changes in packing responsibilities. Our guaranteed price is for the inventory and services agreed upon.
• If you decide to do your own packing or partial packing, remember that movers are not liable for damage to boxes packed by the customer. However, the driver has the right to refuse to accept any carton that may be improperly packed. If the driver has to re-pack cartons that the customer has packed, additional charges will apply.
• If you decide to do your own packing, you should complete all packing by moving day. You will be busy enough on moving day without having to worry about packing
• Obtain a written appraisal of antiques to verify their value. Do not retouch, wax or oil wood furniture before moving. Some products may soften the wood, making it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.
• Inform the mover of any possible unusual situations on either end so your estimate is accurate. Make the mover aware of any problems that he may encounter at the delivery such as parking problems, road access, street accessibility, delivery time restrictions or if there are any stairs or elevators involved. The cost of your move can increase for such unexpected occurrences. If the moving crew has to perform a long carry (more than 75 feet from the moving truck to your door) you may be charged for excessive distance. Some neighborhoods may prohibit trucks over a certain weight. The driver will need to offload your possessions into a smaller vehicle and charge you for a shuttle van and the additional offload. Advise the relocation consultant if you anticipate this situation arising. In addition, advise the consultant if you are moving to a high-rise building where an elevator reservation is required. This is a very common procedure, and failure to inform your relocation consultant can cause problems for the delivery schedule if the mover does not know about this in advance and a Certificate of Insurance needs to be drafted, particularly if the delivery occurs after regular business hours or on the weekend.
• To check the reliability of the moving company you can contact the local Better Business Bureau (BBB) to inquire about the companys complaint record and how these complaints were resolved. Ask your friends, family and neighbors for recommendations and advice on movers.
• Be sure to understand the coverage for loss or damage of your shipment. There are different levels of liability that you need to be aware of. You need to understand the amount of protection provided and the additional charges that may apply. See Los Angeles Movers guide to moving insurance to understand the different options.
• Notify the post office that you will be moving. Provide them with a new address (permanent or temporary). You may use this link to change your address online www.usps.com.