Archive for the ‘Moving Companies’ Category

Moving rentals’ insurance and homeowners’ insurance have huge limitations if something gets lost or damaged in a Do-It-Yourself move. But just how wide is moving companies’ protection compared to other sources?

Options from Moving Companies
Valuations are governed by federal requirements. The limited liability or basic carrier liability-release value is free; however, coverage is only the “carrier’s liability” or the “released value” which is usually 30 cents per pound in in-state moves. Interstate moves are around 60 cents per pound per article which will not do much to replace high-value items. Homeowners should sign a releasing document called the Bill of Lading if they choose this.

A more expensive option is the “full-value replacement protection” which will replace, repair or pay for any destroyed, lost or damaged item. Items with values over 100 dollars per pound should be listed in a high-value inventory sheet provided by the moving people.

Insurance/State-Regulated Options
Third party insurance usually covers below 1 percent of the item’s value. Meanwhile, homeowners’ insurance policy covers full or partial costs. However, it is advisable to have a separate moving insurance to avoid any claims from affecting homeowners’ insurance policy.

Other Options
The Declared Value Protection is offered for intrastate moves. The total shipment is covered at a value not exceeding the dollar amount that the client declares to the moving service, or at an amount usually equivalent to 1.25 times the weight. Depreciation costs over the years will also affect the amount of coverage.

In case of damages or loss in interstate moves, a claim can be made within nine months. Homeowners should still pay the movers via cash on delivery or credit. Companies are required to respond, and homeowners may sue for damages if he is not satisfied with the results of arbitration. To prevent incidents like this, check the company’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau first.

Also, remember to check state laws and moving companies’ terms as protection policies may vary.

Like all good relationships, good communication is the key when working with moving companies. Here are some tips to ensure that the lines stay open between homeowners and movers.

Avoid being fickle. Inform movers of the moving plan and stick to it as much as possible. Tell the movers what “has to go” and “what has to stay”. It always pays to go through the whole house and provide movers with a final moving checklist. Make sure that the list is complete and thorough since the extra weight will mean extra expenses. Remember that any changes made during the actual move may also incur extra moving costs.

Take careful note of dates. Know the closing dates, moving-out dates and inform the movers. The moving services should also know if certain dates need to be changed due to unforeseen circumstances.

Never keep secrets. Unfortunately, surprises are a no-no when it comes to establishing a good relationship with the moving people. Inform them of items that need special packaging or may need the help of third party companies such as gym equipment or large play sets. Explicitly tell the company of items that need special handling and care like heirlooms and antiques to avoid accidents and lost.

Never settle for less. Make sure that the company has all the moving equipment that you need. Informing the company of the things that are needed for the move will help the movers prepare for the big day.

Treat movers with respect. A relationship without respect stands no chance of surviving. Moving is not an easy job, and a cranky client will not make it any easier. Treat movers with respect and they will also give good service.

Homeowners should make sure that there is always open communication between them and their moving companies. This would help guarantee a stress-free move for both movers and homeowners.

You must have realized by now how moving house, particularly interstate moving, is a major event for you and your family. And how small problems can derail your move. So it is paramount that you must plan your move and every detail involved, as much as possible. Visualize the packing, the travel, the destination and other elements of the moving process.

One of the key elements of your household moving is the moving company. Here are some guides to help you choose the right moving company:

1. Ask your friends, colleagues, relatives and neighbors for recommended moving companies. Check out the Internet for sites that offer recommendations.
2. Call the moving companies on your list and ask the following items: if they are contractors for major moving companies, if they own their moving equipment and moving vans, how long they have been in the business and if they are members of trade associations.
3. Call the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Better Business Bureau and trade organizations and check whether the companies on your list are licensed or have the necessary permits. Check also if there were complaints filed against the companies.
4. From your talks over the phone, you should have already got some ideas about the names of the moving companies that you like. It is now time for the on-site assessment. You should show everything that would be moved, especially if some things are located in places difficult to access.
5. Examine the moving quotes. Make sure that all services are included in the estimate. Usually, a move within the state, which is generally less than 50 miles, moving companies estimate by hourly rates plus the costs of additional services. For long distance moving, ensure that items to be moved are described and additional services are included.
6. Make your final choice. Make sure documents, receipts and papers contain what you want to be moved and services you have specified.

Planning to move out? Homeowners should be aware of these common misconceptions when making a move and in hiring moving companies. It’s Okay to Keep Secrets… From the moving company that is. A homeowner may neglect to tell the company essential things such as the non-presence of elevators in the new home. Though movers may […]