Summertime is the busiest time of the year for movers. It is important that you plan ahead so your mover's schedule will fit yours.
Now is the time to contact a mover. You should get 2 or 3 estimates, most local moving companies will furnish you with a free no obligation written estimate. Ask questions and have them explain the services listed on the estimate in detail. Carefully compare each estimate to see which company best meets your needs and budget.
Packing
Proper packing by a trained packer, using specially designed cartons is crucial to a good move. You may want to pack yourself to save money; it's always recommended that you have the mover pack your breakables (dishes, nick knacks, pictures, etc) while you pack the non-breakable items. If you choose to pack yourself you should secure either new or used cartons from the mover as they are specially designed for the moving industry, uniform size and bursting strength. Cartons from the grocery store or liquor store do not hold up well during a move.
On the day of packing or loading of your shipment, you should empty a closet and place any items that you will be taking with you in the closet to make sure that they are not packed or loaded into the truck by mistake.
Moving Day
The mover is going to give you two sets of days for your move. The first is the pick up spread, you may be asked to select several consecutive days during which your goods can be loaded. The second set of dates on which your goods can be delivered to your new home. The spread dates give you and the driver the flexibility to keep your move on schedule.
Be on hand during the loading of your shipment.
Discuss the delivery arrangements fully with the mover and the van driver.
Let the moving crew disassemble goods.
Read the Bill of Lading before you sign it.
Tell the mover and the van driver how to reach you while in transit.
Delivery Day
The delivery will be made during the spread dates agreed to at time of pick up. Make sure the mover knows how to reach you to schedule the actual delivery. If you cannot be reached, the mover may place your shipment into storage, which can mean additional charges for storage and handling.
At the time of delivery, check your goods against the inventory made at time of pick up for damage. Do not sign the inventory until you have inspected your furniture and the exterior of the cartons.
Claims
If any of your household goods are damaged or lost, report the facts promptly and in detail on the driver's copy of the inventory sheet before you sign. If you find any damage after the driver has left, you should report these items to the van lines in writing. You must file your claim within nine months of the delivery date. The mover must acknowledge receipt of your claim within 30 days and must make an offer or denial of your claim within 120 days of receipt. The settlement will be based on the protection that you purchased at time of pick up.
