Moving Tips

Moving Tips

Moving Tips from the White Glove Moving Experts:

To begin, there are several steps in ensuring a smooth move. Many, require planning and patience.  Throughout our years in the moving business, the professionals at White Glove have thousands of families with moves of every size and variety imaginable as happy customers. Thus, our experience has made us very familiar with common concerns, as well as countless unique and unusual inquiries. Therefore, the following are answers and advice to some of the most frequently asked questions about residential moving. So, lets explore a few moving tips from the pros for your upcoming move.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO MOVE?- MOVING TIPS

Without a doubt, if there is a choice, most moving companies suggest you select a time other than summer or the end of the month. Because, the heaviest demands are placed on vans, equipment and personnel during the summer months (June through mid-September) when children are out of school and at the end of any month. Also, if you are able to be flexible and the move is out of state, moving outside of these months will cost less.

At White Glove, we understand that there are many factors which will influence your choice of when to move. Examples include: New job responsibilities – Separation of the family while the move is under way – Transferring children during the school term – Buying or selling a home. No matter what the situation is, your White Glove representative will help you design a move that will accommodate your busy schedule and ideal move dates. Our tip, communication is key. So, if you need to move in two days or in two months, call to discuss potential dates and costs when the need arises. Also, if moving for work be sure to keep all paperwork as it may be tax deductible.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MOVE?-MOVING TIPS

For long distance moves, this depends on many factors, including: the time of year, weather conditions, billable time to load and unload, and the direction and distance your shipment is traveling. Typically, two or more shipments are put on the same truck for interstate moves. Primarily, this makes it more affordable and  because one household worth of items will not fill it on its own. As a result, customers are able to save money when each shipment is carefully sectioned off from the other shipments.

However, on local moves, these moves are usually done in one day. Whereas, an intrastate move, from one part of Florida to another, may require an additional day or two. With the help of our dispatching system, pickup and delivery dates are then made according to your needs and the origins and destinations of the individual shipments. To be clear, you will know all the dates prior to your actual move day so you can plan accordingly. Our tip, mark your calendars  and if going far, plan a fun road trip stops as you get to your destination.

WHEN SHOULD I CALL?-MOVING TIPS

Firstly, the earlier the better. Because, the more lead time you can give, the more likely we will be able to meet your ideal moving dates. During your free estimate, you should discuss your specific pickup and delivery requirements with your White Glove representative. From there, they will be able to  advise you about the types and costs of services available. For out of state moves, four to six weeks is the goal; however, it is not mandated. Our tip, get the free estimate the moment you know you are going to list your home so you can include the move cost into your asking price.

IS A MOVING COMPANY LICENSED?-MOVING TIPS

To be clear, it would be more accurate to say that a moving company is “Certified.” In realty, that means the company has an active certificate by the Department of Transportation to move household goods. Whereas, for White Glove and Bekins, we have certification that entitles us both to move household goods worldwide. White Glove, as a local moving company, has received a certificate of registration from the State of Florida which allows us to transport household goods within the state IM#1852.

When moving, you will receive two important documents – the “Order for Service” and the “Bill of Lading”. Subsequently, each of these will clearly identify on whose operating authority (certificate) your shipment is being moved. If you have questions, be sure to discuss them with your White Glove representative. Remember, not all movers are created to be sure to check out your moving company’s ratings at www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/search-mover.

IS AN ESTIMATE REQUIRED?-MOVING TIPS

To be as accurate as possible, a White Glove representative will perform a pre-move survey of your household goods and belongings. Therefore, you will be able to budget the cost of your move. Next, written and signed estimates are necessary for all movers within a 50 mile radius of their office. Keep in mind, a waiver for a physical survey of the goods can be signed for moves taking place over the 50 mile radius from the mover’s office. Nowadays, virtual surveys are also an option and requires a smart phone with face time capabilities. Remember, know what you do and do not want to go before your estimate. Then, when the in-home survey is happening it will go faster and everything you want to accomplish gets done.

HOW MUCH WILL MY MOVE COST?-MOVING TIPS

For interstate moves, basic transportation charges include the weight of your household goods and the distance they will travel. Next, the total cost will include the basic transportation costs plus any additional services such as packing, unpacking or increased coverage of Full Value Protection. To be clear, these charges are on the paperwork for Tariff Rates of the carrier. Yet, for local and in state moves, the charges are simply the number of men, time, materials, travel and fuel. Pro tip, get rid of items you won’t use in the new home to save on labor during your move. Also, donating non-perishable food items is a great way to reduce weight and give back to your local community.

WHAT IS A TARIFF?-MOVING TIPS

For starters, a tariff is the “price list” used by all moving companies that provide interstate transportation of household goods. Once services have taken place, the government is given their monies as they relate to the tariff. Thus, your White Glove/Bekins representative will provide you with a copy of the Tariff upon request for your inspection. Our tip, reduce weight as much as you can to pay the least amount of tariff.

HOW AND WHEN SHOULD I PAY A MOVING COMPANY?-MOVING TIPS

Impressively, White Glove requires NO deposits for local moves. Additionally, we charge no cancellation fees or change of date fees. Therefore, we collect payment once services happen and earn loyal customers as a result. However, for interstate moves we must follow tariff regulations.  Thus, we require that all charges be paid in cash, cashier’s check, certified check, postal money order, traveler’s check or credit card before shipment is unloaded at destination. On some occasions, prior arrangements can be made for later billing of the charges. Our tip, do not try to pay with a personal check. Instead, use your credit card and get the points or the move. Now, that’s a win-win!

AM I PROTECTED AGAINST LOSS OR DAMAGE?-MOVING TIPS

To be fair, accidents do sometimes happen in the moving business. If you want additional protections, at White Glove, we have a few options to choose from. For instance, under the terms of the Uniform Household Goods Bill of Lading, you may choose from the van lines “Full Value” protection plan or the “Basic” plan. Hence, the method you choose determines the maximum liability to you. Keeping in mind, if you Purchase “Full Value” protection it means if articles are lost or if there are damages while in the van lines care, a resolution will occur. Examples include, repairs, replacements or  a cash settlement will be made. Meanwhile, all items are covered at the minimum of .60 per pound if no other valuation coverage is taken. Our tip,  discuss Valuation with your White Glove representative so you can be sure your prize possessions are not at risk.

CAN MY POSSESSIONS BE STORED TEMPORARILY?-MOVING TIPS

Yes, if you are unable to take immediate possession of your new residence, we can store your items. Best part, it is at a reasonable cost in our local, air conditioned, secure and climate-controlled storage facility. Additionally, we have agents throughout the country that will provide safe and secure storage facilities for holding your goods until you are ready for them. However, you must specifically request storage services. Please note, you will be responsible for the storage charges as well warehouse handling and the final delivery charge. Our tip, set aside and mark “Do Not Move” on any items that are not to be taken into your new space or come into storage. By doing so, you will save money.

DO MY APPLIANCES NEED SPECIAL ATTENTION?-MOVING TIPS

Yes, most refrigerators, washers, dryers and other electrical appliances may require special servicing to ensure safe transportation. Thus, it is the owner’s responsibility to see that appliances are good to go come loading day. Upon request and for an additional charge, White Glove’s team will perform this service.  Keep in mind, we will be using either or own personnel or a third party service company. Also, please disconnect wires to televisions prior to movers’ arrival (other smaller electronics, lamps, computers, stereos, etc. should already be in boxes).

In summary, White Glove Storage and Delivery does not disconnect appliances, chandeliers, waterbeds, shower heads, satellite dishes, electronics, etc. Therefore, clients should take care of these items themselves or arrange for a third party specialist to service these types of items. Same case in point, for items after delivery, the home owner is responsible for the re-installation. Pro tip, we can make custom crates onsite. So, if an electrician undoes the wiring, our team will handle the rest. Therefore, be sure to ask us about timing and recommendations if you do not already have someone, we know lots of good business people.

HOW SHOULD I MOVE MY JEWELRY AND OTHER VALUABLES? -MOVING TIPS

Though our team is great, irreplaceable and expensive articles are best left with the home owner. Yes, White Glove can move valuables such as money, credit cards, stamp collections or other items of extraordinary value. However, we recommend that you carry these types of things with you. Or, check with your bank or post office for alternate methods of transporting your valuables. Po tip, under no circumstances should you conceal valuable items in cartons, dresser drawers, etc., without telling your representative. Without proper communication, these items will not be accurately on the inventory list.  To summarize, personal items such as: jewelry, cash, checkbook, financial documents, prescription medicines, keys, airline tickets, new house documents, family photos, wedding albums, insurance policies, medical/dental records are best left with you.

CAN I PACK MY CHINA, GLASS AND CRYSTAL?-Moving Tips

Primarily, most people prefer to have their household possessions, especially the fragile items, professionally packed by the moving company. However, if you decide to pack those items yourself, remember the basic principles of good packing. Here’s our tips: wrap the items individually, provide plenty of cushioning and make sure of a firm pack. Lastly, click here for our Packing Tips from the Professionals.

CAN I PACK MY CLOTHES IN CHESTS AND DRESSER DRAWER?-MOVING TIPS

First, lightweight clothing – sweaters, shirts, blouses, lingerie and linens may be left in the drawers. However, do not fill the drawers with heavy items such as books or tools. Reason being, these bigger items  can damage the piece of furniture during transit. Also, do not put fragile items in the drawers or anything that might spill, break or leak.

Next, if White Glove is not packing, make sure there are no small “loose” items. Additionally, be sure all boxes use quality tape for closing and be ready to go when the movers arrive. Remember, all items must be packed in boxes. Thus, the only items that should not be in boxes are furniture and/or any items that White Glove Storage and Delivery is there to pack per your quote.

Most importantly, do not overload boxes. By overloading them, the box can break and you risk damaging the belongings inside. As a general rule, pack heavy items in small boxes and only pack lightweight items in large boxes.

Pro tip, be sure to label boxes clearly so movers know where to place them at the new residence.

Logistics-MOVING TIPS

Please remember, if you live in an apartment building, it is your responsibility to reserve elevators and/or loading space for the move at both the starting residence and at the new one. Additionally, please let us know in advance if we will not have exclusive use of the elevator. Finally, be sure the elevator pads are available for additional protection.

Next, be sure to pack properly or take with you Perishables. For example: plants, frozen foods, refrigerated foods, open or half-used products, foods without adequate preservation. As a bonus,White Glove is a National Move for Hunger agent. Therefore, any  non-perishable food you wish to donate should be in a separate box . At the end, our movers will deliver the items to the Treasure Coast Food Bank

Also, please note that Hazardous Material can not be on our trucks. This includes: matches, gasoline, kerosene, propane tanks, oils, cleaning supplies, paints, guns, ammunition, car batteries, chemicals. Pro tip, local Habitat for Humanities often accept open paint and various other materials or you can arrange for a special disposal with your local landfill.

Lastly, extra charges run on expediency of direction by the customer both upon pick up and delivery. For instance, if there is delay from customer confusion or indecision as to what pieces are moving or where to put them at the new house, extra charges will be put on the bill. Likewise, if movers are not able to work due to other workers impeding flow on site, weather issues, or elevator delays all can equate to extra charges. Of course, this is very important upon delivery into the residence, Hence, a “traffic director” is essential to keep the crews working at maximum efficiency. With proper planning and communication, pre-arrangements can be made for our team to handle this for an small charge. Click here for our downloadable moving checklist.In summary, our team at White Glove looks forward to helping with your upcoming move. Keep in mind, we are happy to do as  much or as little as your require. So, our final tip, schedule your survey and share with us your unique questions so your move is a pleasurable one.

Contact

2175 45th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32967 | Map It!
Phone: 772-778-4750
Fax: 772-778-8234

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