If your plans this year include a major
move, it is important that you do some advance legwork to save yourself
frustration and money. Start planning
your move at least six to eight weeks before your targeted moving date. Ask friends or neighbours to recommend
companies they have been happy with for past moves, and check out their record
with local agencies. Contact each
company to ask about its charges and the types of services it offers, then
compare movers to determine which one best suits your needs and budget. To determine weight, the mover will weigh the
van on a certified scale before and after he unloads your shipment. The difference between the two weights is the
net weight of your shipment and is the amount on which the final charges are
based.
Companies
will offer estimates to help you approximate moving expenses. Such estimates can be binding (the mover
guarantees the price prior to the move) or non-binding (the mover estimates the
price and provides final charges after the shipment is weighed). To assist movers in calculating the cost of
your move, show them every item to be moved, including the contents of your
attic, basement and garage. Ask the
mover to explain the estimate in detail and reach a clear understanding about
the amount of packing and other services you’ll require. Also, be sure you receive a written and
signed copy of the estimate.
Before packing begins, the mover will
take an inventory of your household goods to be shipped. Since the inventory record is one of your
most important shipping documents, make sure all copies are legible, and that
all items are numbered, listed and described correctly. To save on packing charges you may want to
pack part of your belongings yourself.
But keep in mind that movers usually will not accept liability for
breakage to “owner-packed” items, or they may require that the driver inspect
the cartons. Be sure to ask your moving
company about its own policy, and ask for advice on packing materials and
procedures.
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