General Moving Help

Leave no stone unturned…
Inspect your home, from attic to basement prior to your surveys.  Be sure to show the surveyors everything you want moved.  Everything!

Is your boss picking up the bill?
If your company is relocating you find out exactly how much they will be covering, in writing! 

Any antiques?
Obtain a written appraisal for any antiques, to verify their value.  Also, do not retouch, wax or oil any wood furniture.  Some products actually soften the wood, making it vulnerable to impressions left by the furniture pads.

Don’t forget the postman…
Notify the post office that you will be moving and provide them with a new address (permanent or temporary).

What stays, what goes…
Decide in advance which goods will be shipped and which will be sold or donated.  Also, consider whether or not you would like the mover to pack and what other type of additional services you may want.

Meet the surveyors…
Once your survey dates are set, it’s important that you meet the person who comes out to complete the survey.  This is your chance to ask any questions you have about the move, their company, and so on. 

Ensure accurate estimates…
Be sure the surveyor has clearly marked all items that are “going” and “not going” on the survey sheet.  They will prepare their estimate based on this information.  Plus, they will include transportation charges and the charges for additional services you requested.  Inform the mover if there are any changes to your shipment.  Communication is a key factor for a successful move.

To pack or not to pack…
If you decide to do all your own packing or partial packing, remember, the moving company is not liable for damage to boxes you packed.  On the other hand, if there is obvious exterior damage at the time of delivery, make a note of that on the inventory sheet.  If the driver has to re-pack boxes that you have packed, there is almost always an additional charge.

Any special requests?
Provide as much information as possible about any unusual requests so the estimates will be more accurate.  The mover should be aware of any problems such as parking, street accessibility, delivery time restriction or if stairs or elevators are involved.  It’s a good idea to reserve a parking spot for the movers if your new residence is on a congested street.  If the movers have to carry your items more than 75 feet from the van to your door, there is usually an extra charge.