Tips for Cross-Country Moving That Will Save Your Sanity

Posted on May 14, 2022May 20, 2022 by Chris Leo

Tips for Cross-Country Moving

Moving across the country is not an easy task. There are many steps to planning a long-distance move, from packing your belongings and coordinating moving day help to settling into your new home and changing addresses. We’ve compiled a list of useful tips for cross-country moving.

Use A Moving Checklist To Keep Track Of Everything.

Moving to a new state requires time and effort, from selecting a moving company to going through your stuff and obtaining a new driver’s license. A moving checklist can assist you in completing all of the tasks necessary for your forthcoming moving on time.

Lighten Your Load.

Considering hiring a moving company? Keep in mind that the cost of your interstate move is largely determined by the weight of your belongings. This means that the more you move, the more money you’ll have to pay. Given that most cross-country moves cost several thousand dollars, you’ll want to save as much money as possible. To lighten the load, we suggest donating slightly used items to Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity. You could also try selling your items through a thrift store or an online marketplace.

Divide and Conquer.

Moving across the country with a family is difficult. Having several extra sets of hands, on the other hand, can be extremely beneficial. As you begin to pack the house, get the assistance of your spouse and children. Before beginning the packing process, we recommend teaching them how to properly pack a moving box. School-age children should be able to help pack their own rooms. Pack non-essentials or items you won’t need in the weeks leading up to the move first (for example, seasonal clothing and books). Pack the basic needs last.

Make All Travel Arrangements Ahead Of Time.

Don’t put off booking your travel until the last minute. When relocating across the country, take the time to research and plan all travel details at least a month in advance. These travel arrangements, which include everything from plane tickets to hotel reservations, are important for a successful move.

Prepare your pet for travel.

If you’re moving with pets, don’t leave it until the last minute to make travel arrangements for them, especially if you’re moving out of state. Research pet-friendly hotels where you can stay on the road several weeks in advance. If you’re flying, make sure there’s room on the plane for your pet. Each airline has its own set of rules, and depending on the size of your pet, they may not be permitted to fly in the cabin. Acquire all medical records from your current veterinarian before leaving the state, and once settled, make sure to license your pet.

Check That A Moving Company Is Licensed And Insured.

Hiring a rogue mover is the last thing you want to do when moving across the country. Moving scams, fortunately, are easy to spot if you know what to look for. Aside from offering too-good-to-be-true moving estimates, rogue movers are unlikely to be licensed or insured. To see if an interstate mover is licensed, look them up in the FMCSA’s database using their U.S. DOT number. You should also check to see if the moving company is properly insured. Moving companies should be able to provide you with the appropriate documents.

Leave The Packing To The Experts.

Packing your stuff yourself may typically save you money. However, depending on the size of your home, the job may take weeks. Hiring movers to pack your house may decrease stress and let you to focus on more entertaining things, such as spending time with friends and family before you go. It does, however, come with a price. Long-distance movers often charge a fixed rate ranging from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the amount to be moved. You can lower the fee by packing certain boxes yourself but leave the rest to the pros.

Pamper Yourself.

Reduce the stress of moving. Allow yourself a rest. Walk, read a book, or meditate. A trip to the gym or your local yoga class can also help to decrease tension and anxiety. You may even schedule a spa day if you have the time. Sleep, on the other hand, will help you feel recharged and ready to tackle your moving checklist again.

Purchase Moving Insurance If Necessary.

Check your value coverage choices carefully when selecting a moving company. The company’s free, basic protection merely provides the essential requirements. If you feel you need additional protection, consider purchasing Full Worth Protection, which holds your mover liable for the real monetary value of the items.

Make Sure The Utilities Are In Your Name.

Contact your current utility company about two weeks before you want to move. Inform them of your move date and request that utilities be disconnected following your move. Then, communicate directly with the utility companies in your new neighborhood. Let them know when you want the utilities to be turned on. You’ll have to pay a deposit to start utility services at your new house, but it’s better than struggling to unpack in the dark.

Inquire for the driver’s phone number.

It might take a week or more for your stuff to arrive while moving across the country. You should ask the driver for their contact details if you want to stay up to date on the status of the moving truck. Your moving company should provide a means for you to track your driver, whether by phone or email. Often, a moving company employee will contact the driver on your behalf.

Here’s What You Should Know Before Hiring Movers

Posted on April 29, 2022March 29, 2022 by Chris Leo

Here’s What You Should Know Before Hiring Movers

It’s easy to become overwhelmed when it comes to hiring movers. Where do you even begin to hire movers when there are so many to choose from?

It’s not as complicated as you think, if you know what to look for. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the things you should think about before hiring a moving company. We’ve also included some useful suggestions to assist you make an informed decision about your move and pick the best company possible!

Identify What Kind Of Mover You’ll Need

Make sure you know what kind of move you’ll be making before you start looking for a qualified mover. The type of move you are making will decide which moving company you should choose. You can begin by learning the difference between an interstate and intrastate relocation, as well as determining how far you’ll be moving—all of which will help you narrow down the type of mover you’ll require.

Do Your Research

It’s a good idea to look into at least ten movers by looking into their backgrounds, recognizing the warning signs of an untrustworthy moving company, and knowing exactly what will be included in your move. Will you be doing your own packing? What form of estimate is most appropriate for your move?

Ask Relevant Questions

Conduct a phone interview with each mover before scheduling an appointment for them to come view your belongings. This will allow you to narrow down your options to the top three and save time and effort.

Know the Difference Between Mover Estimates and Which One Is Right for You

Some companies do not provide a choice between the two, which might make estimates a little unclear. While you’re on the phone with the mover, inquire about estimates to see what they have to give and whether it is the ideal option for you.

If They’re Legal and Trustworthy

You can begin your search for the perfect mover once you’ve chosen the type of mover you require. It’s important to pick only a licensed and insured moving company. There are no exceptions!

Whether you’re moving down the street or across the country, you’ll entrust your most valuable possessions to the mover. Make sure to hire someone you can rely on. This includes not just validating their business license and capacity to operate legally, but also checking their references. It also entails double-checking their insurance policies.

Be Aware of Mover Fees To Avoid Excessive Moving Costs

Find out how much you can be charged for additional services. If you’ve done your homework while looking for a mover, you should be able to choose a reliable company that wo n’t shock you with hidden fees and costs. Even if your quote appears to be basic, be sure you’re aware of any potential hidden costs.

Make sure the mover is aware of any complicated entries, such as the distance from your door to parking, flights of stairs, elevators, or other issues, as these can result in additional rates. Any large or oddly shaped items should be discussed with your mover, since they may require specialized equipment.

The Benefits of Hiring Professional Movers

Posted on April 14, 2022April 5, 2022 by Chris Leo

The Benefits of Hiring Professional Movers

If you’re getting ready to move, you’re probably already nervous. Even if you schedule time to pack and prepare to move your belongings, planning a move while juggling other duties can be difficult.

As a result, instead of doing it yourself, you can consider hiring expert movers. If you’re wondering whether or not to hire a moving company to assist you with your move, consider these seven reasons.

It Will Be Easier To Complete Your Move

If you try to move your home on your own, it could take many days or even weeks. From packing, organizing, and the actual move, it will most likely take longer than you anticipated. The process might go on endlessly, or at least what it would seem.

Professional movers, on the other hand, know how to move fast and efficiently, and they’re solely focused on your move. A good moving company will work with you to plan out how and when each aspect of the move will be completed. Depending on the number of items you need to move, professional movers may be able to do the job in a single Saturday without you lifting a finger.

Safety

When transporting a large number of items in a small amount of time, there’s a chance that some of them will be damaged. You could split a chair leg by running into a door frame, or you could drop a crate containing fragile stuff into the floor.

Moving companies with a lot of experience know how to transport a lot of things without breaking anything. They take extra precautions with items labeled “fragile,” and they have supplies to wrap large items like furniture and televisions to prevent further damage. Professional movers also have the necessary equipment, such as dollies, ramps, and lifts, to carry bulky objects safely. You’ll have to rent those tools on your own if you’re moving alone.

Ensures That Items Aren’t Lost

When you’re moving on your own, there’s a lot of chaos, and it’s easy to lose sight of a box or two. Professional movers, on the other hand, keep an inventory of the boxes and things to guarantee that everything gets to the new place. Consider hiring a moving organizer to keep track of the details if you need extra help compiling a list of the things you’re taking with you.

Saves You Time And Money

Packing and moving stuff on your own can take up a lot of time throughout the moving process, and we understand that you have a lot on your plate. You can spend your time doing other things like setting up utilities, getting your mail transferred over, and prepping your new house if you hire someone else to perform all of the actual labor.

Prevents Injuries

Moving is not only unpleasant, but it also poses a substantial risk of serious injury to non-professional movers. Lifting heavy moving boxes or furniture has been known to cause people to throw out their backs or twist their ankles.

Professional movers, on the other hand, have the experience and equipment necessary to accomplish a move properly. Most moving companies have moving straps and other instruments on hand to keep you safe while they handle your move. Don’t overestimate your body’s capabilities just to discover too late that you couldn’t lift that table.

No Need to Get Help From Your Family or Friends

Because no one enjoys moving their own belongings, let alone someone else’s, do yourself a favor and hire professional movers instead of relying on family members to assist you. And no, a free pizza will not compensate for your buddies having to work on their Weekend.

Cost-Effective

People choose to move themselves for a variety of reasons, the most common of which is to save money. This isn’t always the case for people who do their own moving and spend a lot of money on moving supplies and equipment. This is on top of being on the move for days. This is time that should be used productively. Professional movers can complete the entire job in less than a day which saves you a lot of money.

Moving? Here Are 4 Of The Most Effective Methods For Unpacking

Posted on March 29, 2022April 5, 2022 by Chris Leo

Give yourself a little patience and accept that unpacking and arranging your new house will take some time, regardless of whether your packing approach is more Marie Kondo or total chaos.

PLACE THE BOXES IN THE ROOMS WHERE THEY BELONG

Move the boxes to the rooms or locations where they will eventually be unpacked, rather than adding to a rising mound as soon as you walk through the front door of your new house. (Hopefully, you’ve previously labeled those boxes so you don’t put toiletries in the kitchen and bakeware in the bathroom.)

Another tip: if you have extra space in your current home that you didn’t have in your previous home, such as a spare bedroom or dining room, you can put boxes there until you’re ready to organize it.

USE THE ABC METHOD

This is an alphabet system used to identify between the different levels of urgency when it comes to unpacking boxes. Items that require frequent contact, such as toiletries or a coffee machine or teapot, are marked with a “A.” Things that should be maintained within arm’s reach but aren’t needed every day are labeled “B.” Then there’s “C,” which is for one-time or seasonal items like holiday decorations and skis that may be packed for a little longer, especially if you’re relocating in the summer.

CONCENTRATE ON A SINGLE ROOM AT A TIME

It’s time to start unpacking after you’ve cleaned the area. The kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms are often the most critical spaces to organize first, but your demands will determine how you organize the remainder of your space.

We recommend going slowly, box by box, and concentrating on one room at a time. People get overwhelmed by organizing, become unorganized, and throw their hands up in the air because they try to accomplish too much at once.

SEEK THE HELP OF A WELL-ORGANIZED PAL

If you know someone who is extremely organized, they will be eager to come into your home and assist you. So go ahead and get their assistance in unpacking. Doing it with your bossiest friend is usually a good thing to do.

There’s no shame in asking for help, and there’s no shame in taking more than a weekend to get organized and unpack your stuff.

Tips on How To Handle Moving Scams

Posted on March 29, 2022March 29, 2022 by Chris Leo

Tips on How To Handle Moving Scams

Choosing a moving company is a big decision that requires a lot more than just money. It takes a lot of faith in a firm to transport all of your belongings from here to there without damages and at the agreed-upon price. All too often, though, this does not occur. Moving company scams appear to be on the rise as long-distance and interstate relocation become more common.

Due to unresolved complaints, the Better Business Bureau has given over 1,300 moving businesses an “F” rating. Every year, the Better Business Bureau receives roughly 13,000 complaints regarding moving businesses.

Fraud Warning Signs and Indicators

Sometimes moving firms may appear legitimate on the internet, but they are experienced con artists who fail to complete moves, steal belongings, and make you overpay for their services. The following are some of the most important fraud red flags and indicators to be aware of:

Credit cards are not accepted, and payments must be made by direct deposit or cash.
During off-season months, significant deposits are requested prior to the move.
Not registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Instead of agreeing to an onsite assessment to provide an accurate estimate, provides immediate quotes.
Don’t give a copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move,” a document that movers must distribute under federal requirements.
Having an excessive number of outstanding customer complaints or having no reviews at all
Customers are required to sign blank contracts or documents prior to the move.

What Qualifies as a Scam?

It’s important to understand what to do if you’ve been scammed by a moving company and want to pursue legal action against them. The following are some of the most typical moving scams:

Falsifying a bill of lading by altering, copying, publishing, or creating one. All commodities being shipped are listed by type, quantity, and destination on the bill of lading.
Providing you with a suspiciously low estimate in order to entice you in, then withholding or threatening to withhold your household items unless you pay much more than the rate offered.
Weight bumping is the practice of assigning a false weight or volume to your shipment.
Obtaining funds under false pretenses such as inflating the number of packing materials and other moving items provided

What Isn’t a Scam?

Every move comes with little inconveniences that aren’t tied to any warranties or protection. In most circumstances, these inconveniences are insufficient to justify legal action or claims:

In most moves, some damage to furniture, appliances, and other personal items is common.
Minor mishaps and missing items during the relocation
Delivery delays of a few days—you may be able to get reimbursement for a missed delivery date, but this isn’t always a scam.
Some cost increases (less than 10%) may arise as a result of incorrect estimations and quotes.

However, in a few instances, making a complaint is necessary to defend your rights as a customer and to alert other customers. Be wary of seemingly legitimate scams that should be reported to the authorities.

OVERCHARGES

Charges for interstate transfers are based on the weight of your belongings, the distance between the locations, and any additional services. Interstate move quotes are often binding, non-binding, or not-to-exceed. In general, the ultimate price increase should not exceed 10% of the quote’s estimated price.

HOSTAGE ITEMS

Moving firms have been known to hold your belongings hostage unless you pay them a large sum of money. The 110 % Rule, established by the FMCSA, specifies that moving companies cannot seek payment of more than 110 % of the initial written estimate before delivering your belongings.

While submitting a complaint takes time, it is the only way to protect yourself and avoid being taken advantage of by your moving company.

Other situations, such as late deliveries, significantly damaged items, and delayed service, may not warrant legal action, but they can still be grounds for a complaint. Your issues should be justified and addressed by the team if you’re working with a trustworthy moving business.

How to Report Scams and Frauds in the Moving Industry

If you think you’ve been scammed by a moving company, find out how to report it and pursue legal action to defend and protect your rights.

MAKE A FORMAL COMPLAINT TO THE MOVING COMPANY.

The first step is to file a complaint directly with the moving company. Reliable moving companies will discuss your concerns and reach an agreement with you. To try to remedy the situation, contact their local office as well as their corporate headquarters.

NOTIFY THE APPROPRIATE ORGANIZATION ABOUT THE MOVING COMPANY.

If you believe you are dealing with a fraudulent moving company, you can contact a number of government agencies to file a formal complaint.

CONSIDER TAKING THE COMPANY TO COURT.

After you’ve tried all other alternatives, you might consider taking the moving company to small claims court. To check if you have a valid case, contact a competent lawyer and explain the circumstances. Suing the company is frequently the last resort, especially because it entails added stress, legal bills, and a large amount of time and work.

DIY Moving vs. Hiring Professional Movers

Posted on March 14, 2022April 5, 2022 by Chris Leo

DIY Moving vs. Hiring Professional Movers

There are a lot of options when it comes to moving. Choosing which realtor to use, which house to purchase, and which furniture to relocate are all difficult decisions to make. When you include in the decision of whether to move yourself or pay movers, it’s no surprise that many people are completely overwhelmed before they ever begin packing their belongings. Thankfully, we’re here to assist you in determining which of these relocation options is best for you.

Whether you hire movers or move yourself is mostly determined by your budget, distance to the new property, move complexity, and personal preferences. There are people who are physically incapable of carrying a couch and mattress down a flight of steps. Not to add, maybe most of your friends aren’t exactly handy or capable of heavy lifting. Needless to say, many of us are left with only one option: hiring movers. There are, however, many people who have successfully accomplished several DIY moves – and saved a significant amount of money in the process.

PROS OF DIY MOVING

You have complete control over Move

The greatest advantage of a DIY move, is that you have complete control over the entire moving process. You not only get to pick the truck and all of your moving items, but you can also manage all of the boxes yourself to guarantee that nothing breaks during the move.

When you commit to a DIY relocation, you have the freedom to choose when you want to start and when you want to finish. You get to decide how to best secure your stuff if you’re moving in poor weather. You also have complete control over how the vehicle is loaded, and you won’t have to worry about movers throwing boxes and furniture into rooms.

Pack Your Belongings However You Like.

Similar to the previous point, you don’t have to stress about neatly packing all of your stuff when preparing for a DIY move. When the movers arrive, you should have all of your boxes sealed and ready to travel. You won’t have to pack odd-shaped items like lights and plants if you move yourself. You won’t have to waste time worrying about how to pack up additional stuff like pillows and blankets. You can pack as little or as much as you wish as long as everything is in the truck on moving day.

CONS OF DIY MOVING

Heavy Lifting

The fact that you’ll have to move everything yourself is the hardest part of a DIY move. Unless, of course, that duty falls on the shoulders of your beefiest (and unquestionably finest) pals. Lifting all of those boxes and heavy pieces of furniture, however, is not going to be easy – especially if there are numerous steps to contend with. If you or your pals are novice movers, you risk damaging the walls by dragging couches and beds down the stairwell. A one-bedroom apartment may be simple to manage.

Planning

It’s also necessary to plan ahead when choosing a moving company. However, managing a complete move on your own will necessitate a great deal of preparation. You’ll have to figure out how to get your things from point A to point B. You’ll also need to figure out how to correctly load the hired moving truck, including which items go in first and which go last, as well as how to organize them inside the truck.

Unforeseen Difficulties Happen

You may be out of luck if anything unforeseen happens, such as your couch becoming stuck in the door. You could end up wasting hours trying to remedy the situation instead of lounging on that couch inside your new house if you don’t hire experienced movers and use certain moving tools.

PROS OF HIRING PROFESSIONAL MOVERS

You Won’t Have To Do Anything

Professionals should handle the heavy lifting. After all, these professional movers were employed for a specific purpose. You won’t have to lift or carry any of your heavy furniture down the stairs or out the door if you hire a professional moving company. You won’t have to worry about strained muscles, scratched new flooring, or asking friends for assistance with the lifting. Instead, you may concentrate on babysitting your children, keeping an eye on your pet, and other necessary activities. You may also just sit back and relax.

Less Stressful

In general, hiring movers alleviates a lot of the stress associated with moving day. Aside from the time-saving advantages of hiring a moving company, you will avoid having to drive a large moving truck down the highway. The driving of moving trucks is extremely difficult. It’s not much better with trailers. If the thought of loading and operating a large moving truck makes you nervous, I strongly advise you to hire movers.

You Are Sure That Your Stuff Is Safe

You may be confident that your valuable assets will be safeguarded. Before they start carefully packing and transporting your belongings, most professional moving companies will require you to sign a formal contract. These contracts exist purely to protect the customer in the event of property loss, so if one of your movers trips over a box, your personal belongings will be insured.

You Can Avoid Moving Injuries

An injury is the last thing you want to deal with during a move. To minimize personal injury, engage a professional moving company if you have big pieces of furniture or extra-heavy boxes in your home. An expert fleet of movers will have the equipment necessary to transport heavy things without jeopardizing their or your safety.

CONS OF HIRING PROFESSIONAL MOVERS

Less flexibility

When you hire professional movers, you give up control of the transfer. There’s not much you can do to influence when and how you move, from the date/time of pick-up to the way the movers pack your items. Worst-case scenario: if the moving company makes many stops along the route, you may have to wait weeks for your moving truck to arrive. Hiring a moving company may not be the ideal solution for individuals who prefer to be in complete control.

Impersonal

You probably don’t know your movers personally. To say the least, entrusting your valuables to complete strangers might be a bit nerve-wracking. That’s why it’s necessary to do your research, read reviews, and compare ratings before hiring a moving company to assist you with your move.

Space and Money-Saving Ideas

Posted on February 14, 2022March 1, 2022 by Chris Leo

Space and Money-Saving Ideas

Have you ever felt as though you couldn’t buy any more storage containers because you didn’t have a place to store them?

Here are 5 suggestions to help you see your things in a fresh light, as well as methods to arrange and store them effectively. Get ready to declutter and have a more organized area.

The problem most people have is that you don’t have enough space in your house, apartment, or condo. You live in a tiny apartment or wish to save money by living in a smaller space while still having access to all you want. There are various methods to tackle this problem without having to move or spend a lot of money on furniture.

CLEAN YOUR CLOSETS

Closets are for storing clothing, but they should not be packed with irrelevant items. Take a day and carefully clean your closet to get rid of everything that isn’t important. You’ll have plenty of room for new clothing. This is something you should do on a frequent basis, as you should check for anything you haven’t worn in over a year.

Donate, sell, or throw away your frequently worn stuff. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your closet will become a minimalist’s dream if you go through it on a regular basis. Also, cleaning your closet will assist eliminate worn-out things and those that are stained without feeling bad. This saves you space, money, and time because you won’t have to waste time hunting for and ironing them afterward.

INVEST IN ITEMS THAT HAVE SEVERAL PURPOSES

If you don’t have a lot of money to spend, investing in items that can be used for more than one purpose might be a fantastic option. Instead of buying them individually, you may get a frying pan that also serves as an oven. You may create that extra space in your cabinets and save more money by acquiring that pan and getting rid of other pans.

Even though having everything on the market sounds appealing, consider how often you’ll need that specific item. If you’re just going to use it, for one thing, get rid of it to save money and space. When you go shopping, be imaginative and look for items that may serve numerous functions.

Invest in essential items as much as possible. Basic objects are frequently seen as boring or utilitarian, yet they are also flexible and can always be matched effectively with other items.

MAKE AN EFFORT TO CLEAR SOME SPACE IN YOUR HOME

You may do this by downsizing your stuff, which should not include everything in your home. All you have to do is divide your stuff into reasonable parts, avoid overthinking it, and get rid of everything that isn’t absolutely necessary. You’ll be astonished at how few items you need when you live alone. Check your clothing and kitchenware to see if you can get rid of anything.

Many people wind up with a lot of stuff because they buy new stuff and don’t get rid of their old ones. For example, if you have extra dinnerware that you don’t use, give or sell them to save money and space, even if you have visitors. Also, attempt to find appropriate storage for your stuff. If you wish to get rid of any old clothes or accessories, make sure you select an appropriate place to store them first.

GET RID OF ANY WORN-OUT OR BROKEN ITEMS

How many times have you been wearing a shirt just to find it’s ripped and no longer fit? Or, on a regular basis, do you have to replace home objects because they are broken? For example, if your phone suddenly stops working or the ink in your printer runs out, all of these things are totally acceptable to discard.

You can repurpose them to do other tasks in addition to getting rid of them. You may, for example, use that worn-out cloth as a rag or tuck it into your cushions. You may also give your old towel to a local vet. The more unnecessary items you get rid of, the easier it will be to store your new belongings. You may also give away worn-out hand towels to students in a new dorm or apartment.

MAKE SURE THAT WHAT GOES UP STAYS UP

Consider your walls and ceiling when creating more room on a small budget. Install some hooks on the wall and hang various stuff from them. Hats, cooking equipment, and collapsible tables and chairs should not take up a lot of floor space. Hang your purses and headphones to conserve important floor and counter space.

Get additional space by hanging your shirts and coats front-facing you, so you don’t waste time stepping out. Install a hook in your ceiling. Make sure the hook isn’t in the way of traffic. Hang objects up and out of the way using ornament hooks, paper clips, and curtain hooks. Hang many objects on your chain at the same time to get a lot of stuff out of your way.

Display your favorite decor and collections, such as serving utensils, pans, covers, and plastic bags. You may also hang your plush animals by wrapping a thin ring around their body and attaching it to a chain. This can help you save a lot of space. All you have to do is not overstrain the hook or it will fall and make a hole in your ceiling.

Saving money and space may improve the functionality of your house and your quality of life. Make sure you only buy what you need and avoid making impulsive purchases. When purchasing anything, you should consider not only saving money but also conserving space. So take the risk and make your house more comfortable while saving money.

How to Find and Compare Moving Companies in Your Area

Posted on December 14, 2021December 14, 2021 by Chris Leo

How to Find and Compare Moving Companies in Your Area

It’s usually a good idea to complete your homework before hiring a professional moving company for your next relocation. Often, you may discover a lot of information about national providers but have a harder time finding the information you need to pick between local moving businesses.

A highly rated national moving business may not always provide the greatest service or costs in your region, and you may discover that going with a large brand rather than a smaller firm gets you a better deal. While we can’t tell you which choice is best for you, we can show you how to do the research to find out.

We’ll show you how to research and evaluate local moving firms so you can pick the company that will provide you with the greatest value for your money.

Make A List Of What You’re Looking For

When it comes to moving truck size and the area where help is required, most of us have a few specific guidelines that we must follow when hiring movers. Determine your non-negotiables early on so that you don’t waste time exploring local moving businesses that won’t be able to match your requirements.

Most companies will provide information about their transportation area and capacity on their websites, so you should be able to save a lot of time by verifying that they tick those crucial boxes before devoting any further time to the process.

Make a list of options

Start your search with those high-level requirements in mind, and compile an initial list of local moving businesses that could be suitable for the task. Use our free online directory to get a list of trustworthy movers in your region quickly and easily.

By selecting your relocation type—i.e. local, long-distance, or international—you’ll be able to narrow down your fundamental requirements even further. Auto transport, office removals, and more are all available as part of our comprehensive service.

Read Reviews

Things get a little more difficult now since after you have your list, you’ll have to go to work on your comparisons. Reviews are a wonderful place to start since the greatest predictor of what to anticipate from a local moving company is almost often the experiences of those who have used them before. Fortunately, we make it simple to acquire trustworthy information by providing a list of reviews that can be accessed directly from the directory (the link is located beneath each company’s emblem).

Request A Quote

Budget is obviously a big consideration when researching and comparing local movers, which is why we recommend collecting estimates from at least three different businesses. Even among providers that serve the same locations, prices might vary significantly.

And, because the cost of any move is primarily determined by how much stuff you have when you’re moving, and how much manpower you’ll need, you’ll always be better off getting an estimate directly rather than attempting to piece together cost information from a company’s website.

Keep in mind that while the price is important, it shouldn’t be the only thing you consider when comparing local moving companies. Pay attention to the pricing structure (hourly vs. job), as well as what else is included in the quote.

With all of that information in mind, you’ll be able to limit down your options even further to local movers who provide you with not just the greatest pricing, but also the best value.

Please keep in mind that prices are only estimates and may not reflect the precise amount you’ll pay on moving day. They should, however, establish a broad benchmark against which you may choose the most cost-effective solution.

Schedule an Appointment

After following the steps mentioned, you should have a name of a firm with whom you wish to plan your move. Now, it’s time to check their schedule and schedule an appointment for your service. If you have a few local moving businesses that match the criteria, contact them all to confirm availability and let them know you’re still deciding—one company may cut their costs for you to get an advantage over their competition.

Booking a moving company’s service is simple and may frequently be done online. Let the business know if you have any flexibility with your moving date, since some days and times are less expensive than others, and they may be able to give you a better deal if you’re willing to consider a variety of options.

Follow these methods and suggestions to help you choose a moving company that will not only do the work at a fair cost but will also complete it properly. For more tips about Moving or relocating you may check our previous blogs. Don’t forget to contact us for a free no-obligation quote on our moving services.

How to Read a Moving Contract

Posted on November 29, 2021November 29, 2021 by Chris Leo

How to Read a Moving Contract

Finding the perfect moving company can save you a lot of time and stress when relocating to a new place. We’ve talked about what to consider when hiring a moving company and whether you should hire professional movers or do it yourself.

To simplify things, hire a moving company that is licensed, insured, and well-reviewed, and most importantly they should also offer you a solid moving contract.

What is A Moving Contract?

A moving contract, also known as an order for service, is a written document stating the terms and conditions of your move. By putting everything on paper and demanding signatures, both parties are agreeing to specifics that govern the moving service that will be delivered.

A moving contract is provided by all reputable and trusted professional moving companies to their clients. If a company does not provide you with a moving contract, it is a good indication that you should hire someone else.

A moving contract is a legally binding agreement, just like any other contract. It’s critical that you fully understand what you’re reading and what it all means before you sign. We’ll go through all of the main aspects of a moving contract in this article so you know what to expect.

The precise contract that you’re required to sign may range in scope depending on who you’re dealing with and the state or states in which your transfer will take place, but it should always include the provisions listed below.

Description of Services

In most cases, this is the first section of a moving contract. In it, your movers will outline all of the services they will provide you with, as well as the beginning and end destinations you have agreed upon.

Check that this section includes all of the services you are expecting. You can change it if you want an additional service, but keep in mind that doing so will definitely increase your quote.

Scope of Services

Consider this section to be a timetable of events that will occur throughout your service, as well as a location where both parties’ expectations are set. The scope of services section is frequently divided into a numbered list that covers each phase. Inventorying, loading, and unloading a truck are a few examples.

You may also notice extra information, such as the fact that the customer (you) must have all things packed and ready to go when the movers come to load the truck, and that the service provider (your movers) will take care not to harm your possessions while unloading the truck.

Payment

This section contains information about how to pay for your service when you are expected to pay, and what happens if you do not. Your moving contract may include a flat charge for your service, or it may give a breakdown of how the service will be priced, depending on the verbal arrangements you made with the moving company that you hired (i.e. fixed rate vs. hourly rate and how those will be calculated).

Pay particular attention to this area since once you sign on the dotted line, you are legally committing to pay the sum specified in the contract or to adhere to the price structure. If you have any questions regarding payments or price, it’s best to ask them before you sign any contract.

Term

This specifies that the moving contract is effective until the services specified within it are completed. There isn’t anything to be concerned about here, but read it over and double-check everything to ensure that you completely understand the terms of the contract and have no concerns about it.

Confidentiality

This is a standard part of almost all contracts, not only moving contracts. The confidentiality clause basically specifies that during the period of the contract, the moving company will not divulge any information about the customer, including any records, papers, or notes relating to your relocation.

Other Terms to Be Familiar Of When Moving

While the sections above cover the overall idea of what you’ll likely discover in your moving contract, there are certain terms and conditions you may not be familiar with. Additional legally enforceable contracts may be offered to you.

To take the uncertainty out of figuring out precisely what you’re committing to, we’ll go through some of the most prevalent (and confusing) moving contracts and moving contract-related terminology below.

Additional Charges: On your moving contract, there may be a section or sub-part that details any additional expenses you may incur, often known as accessorial charges. These expenses are additional fees for specific aspects of your move, such as if your movers must manage their truck through places that aren’t designed for large trucks or if you aren’t ready when they arrive and they must pack some of your stuff.

Non-Binding Estimate: A non-binding estimate is a payment estimate that may vary over the duration of the service, so the amount shown is not a guarantee of what you will owe.

Valuation: The declared value of your personal belongings. In the case of damages, your movers will not be accountable for more than the value amount.

Bill of Lading: On moving day, you will get a bill of lading, which is a copy of your moving contract. It will contain the sections mentioned above and should be kept because it also acts as your service receipt.

Binding Estimate: A binding estimate ensures that the price indicated on the moving contract is the final price you will pay. To adjust this price, a moving firm must submit an update to the contract, which must be signed by both parties.

High-Value Inventory: Your mover may provide a high-value inventory list, which is a list of the objects they’ll be moving that are of exceptionally high value, as well as their respective valuations. Additional packing or moving expenses, as well as special terms, may apply to certain products.

Linehaul charges: These fees are based on the distance that your goods will be transported and the gross weight of the cargo.

Full-value replacement and released-value replacement: Full-value replacement coverage and released-value replacement coverage are two types of insurance offered by moving firms to their customers. Examine the documents you’ve supplied to discover which one your mover accepts. You’ll get the entire worth or replacement value of any damaged products under full-value replacement, up to around $100 per pound. You’ll get a substantially lesser amount under released-value replacement—roughly $0.60 per pound.

If you have additional questions about moving feel free to contact Clutch Moving Company. We’ll be here to help you with your moving needs.

Moving Tips: Where to Start Unpacking

Posted on November 15, 2021November 15, 2021 by Chris Leo

Moving Tips: Where to Start Unpacking

It’s rather usual to devote a significant amount of time and effort to pack for a move. Unpacking, on the other hand, might be just as important. Without a strategy or plan, many people end up having boxes lying around for months.

To avoid this, you must first decide how you will unpack. We have three alternative unpacking plans available, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

How Long Does It Take To Unpack A House?

The amount of time it takes to unpack varies on a number of factors, including the size of the house, how much help you have, how much time you can commit to unpacking in one sitting, and your clutter tolerance. If you have enough support, you should be able to unpack everything in 1-2 days.

Most people, on the other hand, take many weeks to finish putting things away. According to research, unpacking takes an average of 182 days, or slightly over six months. So don’t feel obligated to finish the process over the weekend (unless you have to).

Unpacking Depends on Your Goals

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to unpacking following a move. Instead, how you approach it will be determined by your goals, such as how quickly you want to settle in or how organized you want to be. There are three basic unpacking strategies we’ve discovered: room by room, unpacking quickly, and sorting as you go.

Unpacking Room By Room

If you want to take your time setting up after moving, going room by room is the ideal strategy. Of course, you’ll need to get the essentials in place first, which we’ll go over below. If you don’t have the energy for a continuous unpacking weekend or if you want to take your time getting situated, going around your house in a scheduled order is the best way to go.

Begin with the essentials

In an ideal world, you would have packed an essential box that you could unpack first. If not, begin by cleaning, making your beds (or at least a place to sleep, such as an air mattress or sleeping bag), and stocking the bathroom and kitchen with basic toiletries and paper supplies. You could also wish to set up one TV or your PC for some evening entertainment.

Fast Unpacking

You’ll need a plan and a lot of helpers if you want to get rid of the mess as fast as possible. Hopefully, you packed efficiently, grouping related products in boxes (like all the bedding in the same box). If you haven’t packed yet, follow our packing advice to ensure a successful trip. When it comes to assistance, have as many family and friends as possible, ideally one in each room. To unpack quickly:

Begin with the furniture. Because furniture is large and takes assistance to set up, get those pieces in position first so you don’t have to constantly interrupt people’s unpacking duties to move heavy items.
Place the boxes in their proper locations. Ideally, you’ll get everything where it needs to be so you can concentrate on a particular room instead of circling back and forth.
Try to make sure that if you touch something, you must put it away. Don’t waste time rearranging things several times (like taking it out of the box onto a table, then putting it away).
As you go, take care of the trash and recyclables. When a box is filled, toss away any waste, recycle the packing paper, and rip the boxes down so you may stack them. This not only gives you more space, but it also allows you to see how much work you’ve completed.
When you’ve completed your area, move on to the next largest room. Start with little sections to feel accomplished that something is finished. Then make your way around the house. You may have all hands on deck to assist you to unpack the kitchen appliances or equipment if you save them for last.

Start Organizing as You Go

If you want to organize your new home once you move in, it’s a good idea to unpack with that objective in mind. The only drawback is that if your family isn’t as organized as you are, you may find up performing the majority of the job yourself. But having everything in its place might be worth it. To get organized once you move in, follow these steps:

Begin with a plan. Closets, shelving, and storage areas are all potential organizing areas. Have a plan in place before you open a box. You might look for ideas on the internet or in magazines. If you need any organizational products, purchase them before you begin.
Make your plan clear to others. Be specific about your plan if you want others to assist you. Tell your helpers, and even show them your idea, if you want a bookcase sorted by color (as shown on Netflix’s The Home Edit). Draw out whether you want your spice cabinet to be alphabetized from front to back or left to right, for example.
Instead of rooms, unpack in zones. If you’re attempting to get organized, consider starting small. Instead of concentrating on the entire bedroom, manage the bedside table first, then the dresser. When it comes to the closet, don’t try to do everything at once. Consider shoes, jewelry, hanging clothing, and so forth.
If you’re not sure where things should go, make piles. When you get to an object and aren’t sure what to do with it, put it in a designated area. It’s preferable to leave it aside and place it in the ideal location later rather than having to locate and transfer it.

Let us know if you are looking for assistance to help you pack/unpack and anything that involves moving. Clutch Moving Company is the ideal moving company that can help you with all your needs. Make sure to schedule an appointment with us or call our number to know about our services.