Getting Ready to Move

Clear out the clutter from your life.

Sell, donate, or give away items you don't use, such as furniture, appliances, and clothing.

Start packing at least 2 weeks before your moving date.

Label all boxes on the top and side with its corresponding room. Use smaller boxes for heavy items and larger boxes for lightweight bulky items and tape well.

Flammables can ignite and cost you everything.

Do not under any circumstances move flammable items. Empty fuel from all tanks and containers such as mowers, tools, and lamps. Butane tanks must be certified as being professionally purged. Eliminate all cleaning fluids, bleach, oil based paints, lighter fluids, matches, ammunition, and aerosal cans-hair sprays, cleaners, car cleaners, shaving creams, insecticides, and others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I call a Mover?

You should call Movers as soon as you are aware that you will be moving. This gives you the opportunity to plan for your moving budget in advance.

Do I need an in-home estimate?

Yes. It is required to have an in-home estimate. All moves over 50 miles in state an crossing state lines, an accurate estimate cannot be provided without a visual survey of the items to be moved. By having an in home estimate, we can determine the weight of the shipment, if packing is required, and if special services are needed. Any questions that you may have will be answered by your Certified Moving Consultant.

What is the difference between Binding and Non-Binding Estimates?

A Binding estimate is the exact cost of the services determined at the time of your in home estimate. A Binding estimate can only be given by having an in home survey of your move. If additional services are requested or deemed necessary (i.e. a shuttle at destination) the charges will increase to include the cost of required additional service.
A Non-Binding Estimate is the total charges based on the actual weight and charges of all services requested and rendered.

What do I need to do to accept an estimate and schedule my move?

At the time of your in-home survey, your Certified Moving Consultant left a copy of the estimate of "Order for Service." Send your signed copy of the estimate/order for service to our office. Be sure to include destination address and additional contact numbers, such as cell phones.

What if my closing fell through or I need to make changes to my move?

Call your move coordinator as soon as you know, to make the changes, even if it needs to be postponed indefinitely.

Do I have to be present for all stages of my move?

Yes. At the time of the in-home survey, you should be present to assure that all needs are addressed, and included in your estimate. At the time of loading is important that you are present to make sure that all items are loaded. A copy of all shipping documents must be signed by you, authorizing the Carrier to transport the shipment on your behalf. At the time of unloading, it is important that you are present to check off all items as they are offloaded and placed into your new home, as well as to sign all shipping documents to state that all items have been received.

Moving Tips

• For an Easier Move Day
• Do not schedule flights, appointments, or disconnections on load days.
• Be available on all loading days. Movers will have questions.
• Accompany the driver as he prepares your inventory. Ask questions about noted conditions.
• Carefully read and complete the Bill of Lading, which is your legal contract with your mover.
• Make sure you have copies of the Bill of Lading and inventories before the driver leaves.
• Do a final walk through, checking all storage areas before the driver leaves to avoid missed items.
• Give the driver contact information in case he needs to reach you.
• Verify the correct address of your new home or storage facility with your driver.
• Provide the movers and helpers with a clean water supply and restrooms.
• Avoid having the items you are taking with you from being loaded on the truck by placing them in your vehicle or in one place, such as a previously packed bathroom (label the door).
• Carry with you or send by UPS or FedEx small valuables such as cash, coin, jewelry, photographs, insurance policies, and legal documents.
• When possible, arrange for the house closing a day or two following the move to avoid the stress of being available for the movers and concentrating on closing at the same time.
• Get a good night's sleep and have a good breakfast the morning of the move.
• No matter how prepared you are, things occasionally go wrong. Fido will chase the neighbor's cat. A favorite toy will end up in the bottom of stack. Friends will drop by for one last chat. Try to relax. This is a normal part of moving.

• For an Easier Delivery Day
• Be available on all delivery days. Movers will have questions.
• Have estimated moving funds available (cash, certified check or money order) to pay the movers before they begin unloading furniture. Credit card arrangements must be made prior to the loading day.
• Carefully check for damaged or missing items at the time of delivery and make notes of all of the inventory before the movers leave.
• Supervise the unloading and unpacking.
• Complete your unpacking as quickly as possible, starting with the kitchen and bedrooms for the easiest transition.
• When possible, arrange for the house closing on the new home to be a day or two before the first day of the delivery spread.

• For Kids and Moving
• Pack a bag or box for each child with snacks, favorite toys & clothing.
• Talk with your children about the move.
• Help your children learn about the new area.
• Encourage your kids to communicate with old friends after the move.