Moving 101

After searching long and hard, you've found or built your dream home. What could be more exciting? But moving to a new home, whether cross-country or across town, can be one of life's most stressful events. It can quickly overwhelm the unprepared homeowner. A little planning, though, can minimize the headaches of a household move. 
 

Start early 
That's what Cece Jaucian of Horne Moving Systems, a local agent for United Van Lines, emphasizes first. "We recommend you begin the process of selecting a mover as early as three months ahead of your move date," says Jaucian. Extra time will allow you to check out potential movers reputations, to solicit estimates from multiple moving companies, and to secure a place in your selected mover's schedule. When scheduling the big move, consider that moving companies are busiest in the summer, and many offer lower rates during slower periods. You can save on moving costs if you schedule your move from October to April. The beginning and end of each month are likewise busier for movers than mid-month, and here again, a little flexibility in scheduling could save you money.
 

Ask around 
A personal recommendation from someone with actual experience with a particular moving company is a valuable resource. "We rely almost entirely on word-of- mouth references," says Michael Keene, vice president of business operations for TROSA, one of the Triangle's largest independent movers. "Hearing from someone you know and trust that a moving company did a good job with their move " that's worth a lot, and we are always mindful of preserving that reputation."
 

Check out performance records. Interstate moves are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; moves within North Carolina are overseen by the N.C. Utilities Commission. You can check licenses or request performance reports from these agencies. It's also a good idea to check for complaints against a mover with The Better Business Bureau and the N.C. office of the Attorney General.
 

"Many major van lines also provide ratings of their own carriers," says Cece Jaucian. "United Van Lines grades their agents based on extensive surveys of customers. We always encourage people to ask to see a mover's rating." The American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) offers certification programs for van lines and movers that designate professionals who follow a rigorous industry code of conduct. So an AMSA certified professional offers a degree of prequalification that a mover has a good record of professional service and prompt response to disputes.
 

Types of Estimates 
Make sure your written estimates from potential movers are based on an on-site visit. "I can't tell you the horror stories I have heard of people who were quoted one price over the phone or on the Internet," says Jaucian, "and then their possessions are held hostage for a much higher price." These rogue movers are operating outside the law, but embroiling your every belonging in legal entanglements is the last thing you want to be faced with during a move.
 

A licensed, reputable mover can provide you with three different kinds of estimates. The first is a non-binding estimate. The cost of all interstate and most intrastate moves further than 30 miles is based on weight and distance. A non-binding estimate is calculated on an approximation of these costs, based on the mover's survey of the items to be moved, with the final costs determined by the actual weight of your shipment. Under a non-binding estimate, the mover cannot require you to pay more than 110 percent of the original estimate at the time of delivery. You are, however, responsible for these additional charges within 30 days of delivery.
 

The accuracy of this estimate is crucial to avoiding unexpected expenses at the back end of your move. "Be prepared!" says Jaucian. "Before the estimator arrives, remove or clearly mark any items you do not intend to move. Be sure to point out everything you intend to take with you - including items in the attic, the basement, the garage, the patio, in closets and under beds."  The more thorough you are with the estimator, the closer your estimate will be to your actual cost.
 

The second type of estimate is a binding estimate. Typically more expensive, a binding estimate is a bid to perform specified services for a set price, regardless of whether the actual weight of the shipment is more or less than the estimate. Keep in mind that this bid is for a specific roster of services, and any additions will incur added charges.
 

The third type of estimate is known as a not-to-exceed, guaranteed price or price protection estimate. The homeowner agrees to pay the rate based on the actual weight of a shipment, with a not-to-exceed cap placed on that amount. Services above and beyond those specifically delineated will cost extra. It's wise to get several estimates. These are free of charge from reputable movers and generally good for 90 days. Be sure you have each mover prepare the same type of estimate so that you can fairly compare rates; be very wary of low-ball estimates.
 

Are you covered?

Consider carefully how you will insure your shipment. The minimum limited liability insurance (usually included in the base price of your move) typically offers 60- per pound for any lost or damaged item. This means that something like an expensive stereo component might only be covered for $10 or $12. Lump sum insurance covers your shipment for the value that you declare for each item. It generally costs less that 1 percent of that declared value for this far more comprehensive protection. The highest level of insurance (and most expensive) is full value protection. This policy guarantees replacement or reimbursement at current market value of any article lost or damaged beyond repair.

 

Boxing it up

Packing is another big decision for the relocating homeowner. Costs can be reduced by self-packing, but remember, insurance on these items will be limited. (Movers will typically cover only items in packed-by-owner cartons with obvious external damage. Breakage as a result of shifting within the carton is the owner's responsibility). Michael Keene recommends that homeowners wishing to minimize costs pack non-fragile items like clothes, cookware and books (not too heavy!) themselves, and leave the packing of valuable and fragile goods to the pros - both because of their expertise and the more comprehensive insurance coverage against damage. Most movers will reserve the right to refuse shipment of items they deem inadequately packed.
 

Depending on the size of your job, expect packers to arrive two to three days before the scheduled move day. If at all possible, be there with the packers. You can answer questions and monitor their progress. By all means, if you have a concern about the way a particular carton is packed, now is the time to address it with your mover. Jaucian also reminds homeowners to segregate important items from the packing process. "Medications, jewelry, glasses, important papers"  I can't tell you how many times we've received frantic calls from homeowners who left closing documents necessary for the purchase of their new home in the drawer of a desk."
 

Depending on the size of your home and distance of your move, your shipment may well share space in the moving van with those of other homeowners. (You can request sole use of the van, but this may significantly increase the cost of your move). For this reason, delivery of your shipment may be scheduled as long as two weeks or more from loading. Because of the many variables involved, movers will typically schedule your delivery for a range of several days, rather than a specific date.
 

After the move 
One of the biggest culprits when it comes to surprises on the final moving bill is a problem with access to the new home. Always fully inform your mover of such issues as narrow streets, elevator access, restricted parking, etc. If your shipment must be shifted to a smaller van, the mover will charge you for this added expense. You can avoid surprise fees, as well as delays in delivery, by giving your mover a complete and accurate description of your destination. Once your shipment arrives at your new home inspect each carton carefully and note any damage on the driver's copy (the original) of the inventory sheet, before you sign it. You have nine months to file claims for damage discovered in unpacking, but it's best to report these claims as soon as possible. The mover must acknowledge receipt of your claim within 30 days and must deny or make a settlement offer within 120 days of its receipt. Be sure you understand your mover's acceptable method of payment. It is very common for movers to expect cash or certified check upon delivery. Some moving companies will accept payment by credit card, but don't assume this is an option. Follow these expert tips and remember that preparation is key to a successful move. "Have a game plan," says Jaucian. "It makes all the difference."