Moving Glossary
If a deductible is applied, that value is stated next to the cost-per-$1,000 figure.First, you do not pay for any of the loading/unloading labor.Valuation only covers your goods for damage or loss if you can prove negligence on the part of the carrier.For example, 50/100 means that the consumer must pay $50 per $1,000 of assessed value to cover the load against loss, and the first $100 of damage is not covered.Covered appliances include washers, dryers, dishwashers, and refrigerators.If a particular mover does not perform this service or contracts with a third party, the field is marked "NA".Divider Installation This specifies how much extra it will cost a consumer to have a divider installed.Inter State: This is a move from one state to another and is billed by weight and distance.L Linehaul Charges Basic method of billing for long distance service.Individual pieces of furniture are wrapped in blankets to protect them during shipment.Some valuation policies are calculated on a sliding scale, where the price per $1,000 of coverage will vary depending upon the total amount of coverage.Hourly Rates: Customers are charged by the hour per man, per truck.See also Self-Service Mover and Full-Service Mover.Non-Binding: These estimates are based upon the movers previous experience of jobs similar to yours.The items are picked up from every room in your old home and delivered to the appropriate rooms in your new home.Packing Service Many full-service movers provide customers the option of having all of their possessions packed before the move and later unpacked at the destination.Valuation covers your property by assessing value in three different ways explained above (Assessed Value Coverage, Full Replacement Value Coverage & Standard Coverage).Agent A local moving company authorized to act on behalf of a larger, national company Appliance The cost of a complete disconnect of an appliance at the originating residence and a reconnect of the appliance at the new residence.Distinguished from local Move or Intrastate Move.Binding/Non-Binding Estimate Binding: The mover quotes a flat price based upon a given inventory.You then unload the trailer yourself and call the mover to remove the empty trailer.Assessed Value Coverage - This specifies how much money per $1,000 of assessed value, you will need to pay to cover your household items to their full assessed value.Loading Ramp Provided by services-help" class="kblinker" title="More about self »">self-service movers to help you load your household goods onto the trailer.Shuttle Service Occurs when a smaller vehicle is used to haul goods to a location that is not accessible to large moving trailers.For example, 50/100 means that the consumer must pay $50 per $1,000 of declared replacement value to cover the load against loss, and the first $100 of damage is not covered.Full replacement value is the amount of money it will cost to purchase a new replacement for a damaged item, regardless of how old the damaged item was.G Guaranteed Pickup and Delivery Service A premium service whereby dates of service are guaranteed, with the mover providing reimbursement for delays.Interstate Move - Any move which crosses a state boundary, regardless of the number of miles.Your items must all be boxed in advance, and your individual pieces of furniture will not be wrapped in blankets, as distinguished from full-service movers.D Depreciated Value Coverage See Assessed Value Coverage Divider Many self-service movers will place commercial goods behind your household possessions on the trailer.You may not exceed a total of 180 days of storage, and you are responsible for the added SIT charges as well as the warehouse handling and final delivery charges.P Peak Season Rates A premium rate that is charged at certain times of the year.All cost estimates are calculated based on information obtained from the listed moving companies during a signup interview.It also acts as a receipt.Storage-In-Transit (SIT) Temporary warehousing of your goods pending further transportation or transportation to your new home if it isn ready for occupancy.In such cases, carriers are requested to quote valuation prices based on $25,000 of coverage.See also Full-Service Mover and Freight-Service.Order Number Also known as the Bill of Lading.F Flight of Stairs This tells you the additional cost, if any, of a flight of stairs either at the point of origin or the destination.This type of move is regulated by the United States Department of Transportation.This number, typically 60 cents, refers to the amount of money you will receive per pound of damaged goods.Full Replacement Value Coverage This specifies how much money per $1,000 of value, you will need to pay to protect your household items for their full replacement value.Purchasing this protection requires that a cash value be assigned to the items you will be moving.It the number used to identify and track your shipment.Valuation offered by your moving company is a tariff level of carrier liability based on the weight of your goods.This charge compensates the mover for the physical placement and removal of items within the warehouse.Please note that most valuation policies require that the entire load be covered, not just specific items.Piano This specifies the additional cost to move a single 42 inch piano as part of the total household.Although every effort is made to gather the most accurate information, customers should be aware of the fact that many factors effect the cost of a move.Distinguished from local Move or Interstate Move.Advanced Charges Charges for services performed by a third party at your request.Stair-Carry Charge An extra charge for carrying items up or down flights of stairs.W Warehouse Handling An additional charge applicable each time SIT service is provided.This type of service is often subject to minimum weight requirements.V Valuation Valuation is not insurance.If a deductible is applied, that value is stated next to the cost-per-$1,000 figure.Please note that a third-floor walkup counts as two flights since you are starting on the first floor.Cost of Move All cost estimates are calculated based on information obtained from the listed moving companies during a signup interview.As the name suggests, these estimates are subject to change.Inventory The detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the quantity and condition of each item.Ask your carrier for terms.IT DOES NOT cover any loss or damage due to Acts of God, (high winds, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes) riots, strikes, civil commotion, etc.The cost here refers to the cost of packing the amount of household items as specified by the weight.It is given only when an onsite estimate is performed.O Order for Service The authorizing document allowing movers to move your goods.This rate is generally applied in the summer months.Distinguished from an Intrastate Move or Interstate Move.You load the trailer yourself and the company returns to move the trailer to your new destination.local Move A move within a state, typically 40 miles or less.Linehaul charges may not include fees for charges such as the ones noted above in dditional charges local moving local moving usually refers to moves of less than 100 miles within the same state.E Expedited Service This is an agreement to transport goods by a set date in exchange for a higher rate.This coverage is a bare minimum and should not be relied upon to cover you for any significant damage.Linehaul charges are calculated by mileage and the weight of your shipment.All listed information is based on weekday moves during the current season.Cash on delivery This is when payment is required at the time of delivery.This is not the cost to move the piano if that is the only item being moved.It is important to understand everything on the bill of lading before you sign it.Price This tells you how much the specific move will cost, not including the various extra charges and insurance.Serviceable elevators (an elevator large enough to transport the household goods) eliminate the need to pay this fee.Full service movers will also provide, at additional cost, full packing and unpacking services as well as appliance service.Additional Services Services such as packing, appliance servicing, unpacking, or stair carries that are needed due to either your request or building regulations may result in additional charges.Long Distance Intra State: This is a move of more than 100 miles within the same state.I Intrastate Move Any move which does not cross a state boundary, typically over 40 miles.Please note that most valuation policies require that the entire load be covered, not just specific items.See also Self-Service Mover and Freight-Service.
This type of move is becoming increasingly popular with consumers because it saves money in two ways.A divider is installed between these separate shipments to keep them secure.No matter how long the job takes, the flat price is always paid.Standard Coverage Movers, by law, are required to provide a minimum amount of free coverage, listed in our tables under the Std.For example, if you have a priceless vase which weighs 2 pounds, you would only be entitled to $20 of compensation if this vase is damaged in transit.S Self-Service Mover Companies in this category will provide a trailer for you at your old home.Full Service Mover The most common form of moving company, the full service mover, will move all of your household goods from your old address to your new address.The charges for these services are paid for by the mover and added to the charges on your Bill of Lading.Although every effort is made to gather the most accurate information, customers should be aware of the fact that many factors effect the cost of a move.Second, the self-service mover will often load commercial goods on the trailer behind your household goods, to help defer the cost of the total shipment.Pickup and Delivery Charges This is an additional charge that is applied when you have to transport your shipment between the Storage in Transit warehouse and your residence.
Proper Storage & Tips for Loading & Unloading Your Truck
Always load the heaviest items first; this will help keep the truck stable on the road.Secure each quarter with rope tied to the tie-down rings * Place bureaus, large china cabinets, sofas, refrigerators, and other heavy appliances against the front wall of the truck.Helpful Reminder: Have you taken care of shutting off and turning on your utilities?Then load chairs, tables, bookcases and light items towards the back.Wrap mirrors and pictures with protective pads or use a special mirror carton and store them on end.And make sure to rent the right sized truck for your journey.Here are a few suggestions.A Quick Checklist: Print this brief checklist to make your packing and loading go as smooth as possible.Do it here in our Utility Center.Carry valuable papers and items with you so they are not lost or damaged.
Stand large, flat items like mirrors, mattresses, box springs and tabletops upright against the truck walls and tie them securely .Load the truck a quarter at a time, packing it tightly from the floor to ceiling.Placing items correctly inside your truck will make the ride smoother and unloading a whole lot easier.Make sure to have all of the right packing materials in advance.Stack lighter boxes on top of bigger, heavier ones.Use protective covers on sofas and mattresses.
Check out our truck rental center for your rental needs.It’s a good idea to store items you’ll use most at the front of the unit where you can get them easily.
Moving Day: What You Should Expect
Check the mover's inventory and make sure you agree with any notes about the condition of your furnishings.Provide the new phone number and all other phone numbers where you can be reached while shipment is in transit.These numbers along with a detailed description of your goods at the time of loading will appear on the inventory.Stay home until the last item is packed.If you cannot be at your home while the van is being unloaded be sure to authorize a representative to accept delivery and pay the charges for you.Take pictures if necessary.Accompany the driver as he or she inspects each piece of furniture with tags of identifying number.Put your pets in a room where they will not be in the way of the loading and unloading process.Hand over keys, alarm codes and garage door remote controls to the new owner or real estate agent.Inform the destination agent of your representative's name.Your representative will be asked to note any change in the condition of your goods noted on the inventory at the time of loading, and to note any missing items at the time of delivery.Get a baby sitter for your kids during the loading and unloading process.You will also be asked to sign the bill of lading and pack/unpack certificate.This person may be asked to sign documents obligating you to moving charges.Make yourself available for the movers for instructions on where to place your furniture while unloading.Review your floor plan so you can tell the movers where to place your furniture and appliances.Make sure to take along the destination agent's name, address and telephone number.Have your phone connected a day before move-in day.Clean your house as much as you can before the moving van arrives.It is your responsibility to contact the destination agent if you cannot be reached.Make sure you have your reference number when calling the van line agent for questions or concerns.If you wish to have your goods unpacked you need to order this service in advance.Stay there in case there are any questions.Be sure that your chosen representative knows exactly what to do and which valuation liability program and amount you have selected.Search every room, closet and around the house before the moving van arrives.Provide the driver with clear directions to your new home Review all paper work and details when the moving van operator arrives.Let the movers know to whom you have given the authority.Document any loss or damage on the inventory sheet and report this to the van line agent at destination, immediately.
It is your responsibility to see all of your goods are loaded.This allows enough time to locate you and begin preparation for unloading.After the movers leave, pack your phone in one of your suitcases for easy access when you arrive to your new home.
Leave your phone connected throughout moving day.By signing the inventory sheet, you are acknowledging the receipt of all items listed.Work" with the movers and be on hand when the moving company arrives.Personal checks are not accepted.Unless other arrangements were made in advance you are required by federal regulation to pay upon delivery for interstate moving.Make a final inspection before the van operator leaves.Verify that all utilities have been disconnected in your old home and connected in your new home.Allow them to adjust to room temperature.Limited unpacking and removal of cartons may be requested on move in day.If you are not able to be present while the movers are there, designate a friend or family member to help out and make decisions in your absence.Payment is required upon delivery in cash, traveler's checks, money order or cashier's check.Do not use your stereos, computers, televisions, other electronic devices and appliances for 24 hours after delivery to prevent possible damage.The driver will contact you or the destination agent at least 24 hours prior to expected arrival time.
1 Week Before Moving
Mow your lawn one last time before you move.Packing your suitcases that you'll bring with you, and confirm travel arrangements for you and your family.Generally this will be cash on delivery (COD).Your first night box should contain the clothing and toiletries you will need for the first night in your new home.Make sure your agent knows the address and phone number of your new home.Items you may wish to take with you could be jewelry and important documentation.
Return videos and library books.Try to keep plans as flexible as possible in the event of unexpected delays or schedule changes.Settle any outstanding bills with local merchants.Verify your insurance you have chosen with your van line agent.Pick up any dry cleaning and laundry.You can also leave a container of baking soda in the refrigerator.You should also provide an address and phone number of where you can be reached until you will get to your new home.Disconnect and clean any appliances that will be moving with you and those that will remain.Contact your moving company to inquire about methods of payment accepted.Make sure you haven't overlooked anything in the house, including minor repairs Mark the moving boxes to be shipped with the words, "Fragile", "Do Not Load" and "Load Last" stickers.Prepare items you will need while your goods are in transit.Prepare your "first night back" and "ready box" so they're ready for your move day.Refer to our "Insurance and Liability" guide for more information.Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator, freezer and clean your stove all at least 24 hours before moving to let them air out.Arrange for payment to the moving company.
Gather keys, alarm codes, garage door openers and be prepared to hand them over to the new owner or real estate agent.If your old home will be unoccupied for a period of time after you move, notify the police.Try using baking soda to get rid of any odors.
Moving Tips
Preparation Use the move as an opportunity to have a clear-out.Leaving things to the last minute so you’re up all night will just wear you out for the next day.It’s a nice touch to tip them all individually if they’ve been really helpful otherwise tip the guy in charge and he’ll sort them all out.Unplug it just before you move and it’ll retain heat - this can actually cause internal damage.Think about the space in your new home before you move and start to imagine the best way to arrange your furniture in it.After The Move Don’t forget to tip your movers.Buy LOTS of packing tape (or get some from your moving company) .To stop them falling out in transit place the item with drawers facing the wall of the moving vehicle or against a bigger item with a flat surface.This will speed up the process.It’ll speed up the move and help make sure you don’t injure yourself!If you’re moving with kids let them loose on their new bedrooms with a couple of boxes of stuff they can unpack to keep them occupied.Either way it’ll make you move cheaper and easier and might actually make you some cash.If this happens to you do make sure you ask your movers to take extra care or just transport these last-minute packed things yourself.If you have brochures, guarantees or any paperwork relating to systems or appliances you’re leaving behind make sure to leave them somewhere obvious.Moving is a weird mix of action and boredom.Check for damage as soon as you can - some insurance policies only give you a specific time to make a claim.If you can’t do it yourself think about hiring professionals to whiz round for a couple of hours before your load arrives.Or give your local charity shop a boost.Personally, I have used these tips and gained a lot, after all these tips are free, and they could possibly save you a lot of money.Prevent people flagging by taking regular short breaks.Don’t leave all your packing to the last day.Take any staples out of boxes before you pack them.If you feel up to it throw a housewarming party!Tell your movers if some of your boxes contain fragile items even if you have marked them clearly.A fresh pair of eyes can often spot things you’ve left behind.You’ll be up all night and still not get it done right.Underpacking is almost as bad as overpacking and the contents of underpacked boxes are MUCH more likely to be damaged.And, newsprint doesn’t generally come off well in a dishwasher so chances are you’ll be washing them by hand.The following tips, tricks and insider secrets will give you an added edge to make sure your whole move is smooth and successful.Make yourself feel better about it by setting deadlines (i.Alternatively give them jobs to do such as helping movers put boxes in the right rooms etc.Don’t lay major appliances such as refrigerators on their sides - it can cause damage if they’re not kept upright.In my experience, you only tip if you are extremely happy with the service they gave you).
Call your friends and family to let them know you’ve moved safely.Write OPEN FIRST on boxes of essential items and DO NOT MOVE on boxes you’re planning on taking with you!Try not to wrap fragile items in newspaper, as the print will come off on them.Try to move on a weekday.Make time to have some fun!Don’t use any special cleaning/maintenance products such as wax or oils on movers" class="kblinker" title="More about antique »">antique furniture for a couple of weeks before your move.You can even make sketches if you like.The majority of us will run round in a flat panic as moving day approaches.Get one of your removal men to do a last walk-round your old house with you before you leave.If you’re in the habit of hanging clothes or stuff behind bedroom doors remember to check them as well.Stray staples can scratch floors and surfaces, as they’ll probably move in transit.It’ll be less busy, may even be cheaper and you’ll be able to get hold of the contacts you might need if there is a problem such as utilities companies not connecting services etc.For more info about boxes: http://www.Packing Packing starts out being fun but can soon get boring.If you unplug your TV a day before your move it’ll settle down to room temperature.Make sure you fill boxes with a mix of heavy and light.Don’t use foam ‘peanuts’ to pack round a computer - they can generate static electricity and cause damage.If you’re moving yourself hire something to help you move stuff in bulk such as a trolley or dolly.Write down instructions for any systems in your home such as central heating and air conditioning etc.Keep your kids occupied and give them lots of attention - they’ll probably be unsettled by the move.They can make the wood softer for a few weeks and leave it more likely to get damaged.Before your movers arrive try to make sure that all boxes and containers etc are stacked neatly in the room (ideally around the walls) and leave them room to maneuver.If you have a piano think about how it’s going to get out of the house - your mover may need special equipment.It happens all the time and doesn’t mean you hate your new home - just that the move and the thought of unpacking has taken its toll on you a bit.If you notice that your possessions or buildings get damaged by the movers on the day of the move tell the guy in charge immediately.Feed people regularly - they’ll be using a lot of energy.Have your stereo speakers loaded away from your TV - they can damage it!It’s great for strengthening boxes, won’t let them open in transit and can be easily opened when you want to with a knife.If you’re pushed for time it doesn’t matter if you just box up non-fragile items quickly or even just stuff them in bags.Give your mover your cellphone number or that of your new home so they can keep in touch with you if necessary.If you don’t want to buy wrapping materials save up magazines for a few weeks beforehand.If your new home has an alarm system ask for the code before you move!They’ll take extra care if you warn them in advance.
Expect to feel a bit ‘blue’ a couple of days after the move.But don’t beat yourself up if you don’t get everything done.Don’t feel you have to tip if you’re disappointed with the service they provided.Moving It’s easier to clean your new home before you move in.Don’t use newspaper to wrap around lampshades - chances are you’ll not be able to get the newsprint off again!This will make their move much easier for them.If you’re carrying heavy boxes bend with the knees and not with your back!This is one of the most common places people forget stuff.Moving can be a simple and quick process - if you get it right.Have a yard sale or go to a car boot sale with anything you don’t need/want.Make sure someone is at your new home to meet the movers and to tell them where to unload stuff.This will make moving in much easier and help you feel at home.Miss it and you won’t be able to claim.You don’t need to take drawers out of chests of drawers for the move - even if they can’t be locked.Give electrical items a chance to get to room temperature before you plug them in.Plan where your movers can park to load and unload - the further they have to walk the longer it’ll take.Try and get a number for them too.Teach your kids your new address and phone number as soon as you have it.You’ll just have to wash everything before you can put it away.Try to get a good night’s sleep before your moving day.
