Moving Tips

Choosing the Right Moving Company:

Moving can be daunting, but asking these questions will make things a whole lot easier and safer for you.

Q. How do you charge for moving services?

A:Good companies charge by weight and miles, not volume. Volume-based estimates are notoriously inaccurate and we often hear of customers who are charged more when their stuff arrives because the volume-based estimate was wrong. We'd also be skeptical of movers that charge only based on the weight (regardless of how far you are shipping your items).

Q. Can you guarantee that the estimates you give won't be exceeded?

A: The sales line we hear often is "sure, I typically over-estimate to be safe, so your charge will probably be less." It sounds like a great line, but it's not true. Some 400N Tariff movers WILL offer a not-to-exceed estimate based on your accurate representation of the inventory. However, their estimates are generally quite accurate. They're professionals at this and have incentive not to scare you with a high price..

Q. Are you a broker or the actual mover?

A: Many movers that you find online are brokers ,They're effectively move coordinators. Although you won't be dealing with the moving company directly, brokers have direct contact with the moving companies, and drivers and generally detailed tracking tools. We have had equal success with both brokers and moving companies.

Q. Do you offer temporary storage if I need it? How much does it cost? What if I need it longer? Is there an additional cost if I need to get into it while it's in temporary storage?

A: Many carriers offer free temporary storage for a month including the transportation to and from storage while others charge. If the first month is free, make sure you understand the costs for additional months and any hidden costs (like if you need to get into your stuff while it's in storage).

Q. Are all the players (packers, movers, etc) fully bonded and insured?

A: There are a surprising number of fly-by-night operations. Asking some basic questions about the company should help give you a sense of how long they've been around.

Q. What payment methods do you accept?

A: While some moving companies accept credit card payment for the full cost of the move, many do not. You should ask and not assume.

Q. What's your refund policy?

A: Many moving companies have very flexible refund policies (e.g. fully refundable if you cancel within a week or two). This should help alleviate any fear you have booking early with one company.

Q. Can you do an in-home estimate?

A. Although it requires a bit more time, any reputable mover should offer to do an in-home estimate, which will be MUCH more accurate than an over-the-phone estimate

Two Months before your move

Start to clean out things you won't bring. Plan a yard sale to sell it. It's not free to ship, so if you don't need it, get rid of it! Clothes, old school projects, and strange gifts from ex's all fall into this category.

One Month before your move

• Start Packing. As early as one month before (click here for packing supplies you can buy boxes, packing supplies and tape)
• When packing, keep in mind that it's most important to fill boxes to capacity. Under-filled boxes can get crushed and over-filled boxes may fall apart. Pick the right size box for the job--boxes should be between 25-35 lbs each.
• Save all your bills. Remember to save your last bills--they have crucial information like account numbers and customer service telephone numbers that will help you .

Two Weeks before your move

• Notify all financial accounts of your move. Banks, credit cards, brokerages (401k, personal stocks/mutual funds, other investments, etc.) all need to know your new address. Make a list and call/write them all!

Three Days Before your move

• Disconnect major appliances. Refrigerator, washer and dryer, etc. should all be disconnected, defrosted, and dried out.
• Finish packing!
• Valuables. There are a small number of things that you'll probably want to carry with you or in a personal suitcase. Passport, jewelry, cash, house deeds and other important documents should be set aside and stored in a safe place.
• First Night. For each member of your household, you'll want to pack a few nights' worth of clothes, bedding, toiletries, etc. And dishware for meals. Remember that it will take you some time to UNPACK on the other end!

On Moving Day

• Carry money, jewelry, and important documents yourself or use registered mail.

• Enjoy! Since you've prepared so well, just relax while the movers load your well-packed boxes onto the truck!