Moving inventory is essential
Reputable moving companies will either conduct a physical survey or a virtual one to determine the weight and volume of your move. should check every storage place, including cabinets, drawers and garages. The mover’s cost is heavily influenced by the amount of space and weight your items take up. Make sure you understand the estimate, and that it’s as accurate as possible.
A thorough walkthrough
Unreliable is an estimator who does a quick walkthrough and doesn’t note what you intend to move. A good estimate will ask questions regarding what you intend to move from your current home to your new one. Be prepared to tell your estimator what you do not want to be on the truck. This includes items that you will give away, sell at a yard sale or leave for the new owner.
Don’t pay a large deposit
Reputable movers will not demand large deposits or cash before moving. Only pay when the goods are delivered. You have no control if you pay ahead. Use a credit card when you pay to protect yourself from fraudulent activities.
Do not hire moving companies that have a name change
Some companies do business under different names to avoid being rated by the Better Business Bureau. Make sure that the company you are dealing with has a local business address, and any information regarding licensing or insurance. The employees of the company should answer the telephone with the complete name of the business. Find out what other names they use, as well as the state and federal license number. You can search online for complaints against the company.
Find references for movers
If you don’t get any recommendations from your family and friends, can provide a list of movers who are reliable. You can ask any mover for references. Ask them for a list with three local customers who moved within the last three months. Ask them direct questions about the experience.
Avoid packing costs
The mover is not responsible for any damage if you pack the items yourself. If you let your mover pack, it is possible that you will pay more for packing materials and boxes, as well as time and labor. Ask about the experience of the packers if you are going to let the movers do the packing. You want to avoid movers who are careless and just throw everything into a box, then seal it without regard to breakage.
Beware extra fees
Are you moving to a two-story home or do you already live there? Are you moving to or from an apartment on the 10th floor? You’ll probably be charged more if the movers have to navigate stairs and elevators. A narrow street won’t allow a van to fit? You can expect to pay a surcharge if you want your items transferred into a smaller vehicle for delivery. Ask your mover about any extra fees that might apply to you.
Do not sign a blank contract for moving
Never sign an empty contract. Put everything down in writing. You should list the mover’s quote and any additional fees, along with your pick-up and delivery dates. Make sure you read your contract to ensure that all your items are listed. You can’t count on your laptop being in the box if you don’t mark it as such on the inventory form that you sign before you leave the driver’s office. It’s impossible to file a claim if the item isn’t listed on the inventory list.
Don’t accept the quote that is “guaranteed”.
Three types of moving contracts exist:
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- If your contract contains a non-binding estimate, the company can’t require you to pay more than 10% over the estimate. Overages must be settled within 30 days after delivery.
- By including a non-binding estimate that allows you to exceed the estimate, your contract will ensure that you won’t be charged for any additional costs. The estimate represents the maximum amount you will be charged for services rendered.
- The binding estimate in your contract should be a price guarantee for all services and extras, including the move. You must pay any additional fees within 30 days after delivery if you ask for extra services, such as unpacking.
Report any problems
Was there a problem? Do you have to submit a complaint about your move? You have up to nine months to notify the moving company in Hamilton of any issues and to file a claim with your insurance. If you open boxes a year after moving and you find glass shards, you are out of luck. should open and inspect each box on moving day to make sure there are no damages. Before signing the bill of lading, note any issues on the copy provided by the mover.
The mover must acknowledge receipt of the claim within 30 days. The mover has 120 days to deny or pay your claim.
Understanding moving insurance and value protection
All moving companies must assume responsibility for the value of goods that they transport. There are however two levels of liability. It is important to know the fees that are charged and the level of protection each level provides.
Protection for the full (replacement value)
This is the most comprehensive protection plan for your goods. If you do not select an alternative liability level, your shipment will still be covered by the full value protection (replacement value) liability of your mover. This plan allows your mover to choose between two options in the event that an item is damaged, lost or destroyed while under the care of the mover.
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- Repair your article as necessary to restore it in the same condition that it was when it arrived at the mover’s office, or reimburse you for the costs of repairs.
- Replace the article with another article of similar quality and kind, or reimburse you for the replacement.
- This option allows movers to limit their liability if they lose or damage articles of extraordinary value unless these items are specifically listed on the shipping documents. A piece of extraordinary value can be anything that is worth more than $100 per pound. This includes jewelry, silverware and china, antiques, furs, electronics, furs or furs, furs and china, as well as furs. Before moving, ask your mover to explain this restriction in detail. You must carefully read this clause and make the required declaration.
Different levels of Liability
- The free option offers the best protection, but only minimally. This option limits the mover’s liability to 60 cents a pound per article. The settlement of loss or damage claims is based on multiplying the pound weight by 60 cents. If, for example, a stereo component weighing 10 pounds and valued at $1,000 was lost or destroyed, then the mover is only liable for $6 (10 pounds x $60 cents).
- This minimal level of protection is free, but it requires that you sign a statement on your bill of lading indicating your agreement. You will be charged the valuation charge if you don’t select the alternative liability level.
