Moving Companies Helper

8 Items You Shouldn’t Pack When Moving

2009-08-31T18:49:00.000-07:00

When you move, not only are there many things that you have to remember to pack, there are also a lot of things that you have to remember NOT to pack. If you’re responsible for packing your belongings during your relocation, you need to keep your safety and the safety of the moving truck and personnel in mind. Take your prom dresses to your own car, believe me - this kind of things you'll never see the again!

Here are 8 items that you shouldn’t pack when moving. Although some of these tips might sound obvious, plenty of people have had to learn what not to pack the hard way. This advice will prevent you from making the same mistakes.

1. Household cleaners (Safety Tips)

When mixed with other chemicals in the back of the moving truck, household cleaners such as bleach can give off dangerous fumes and even cause fires. Keep in mind that temperatures in the back of a moving truck can get very high in a short period of time. Such high temperatures can lead chemicals to turn into harmful or even fatal gasses.

2. Lighter fluid

You should avoid packing lighter fluid because it is highly flammable. In the back of a hot moving truck, it could combust and burn.

3. Fertilizer and Weed Killer

Got a green thumb? If you’re planning on packing away your gardening tools to have them loaded into the back of the moving truck, don’t include the fertilizer or weed killer. Just like the substances listed above, fertilizers and weed killers are highly flammable and cannot be kept in hot conditions, particularly over the course of a long trip.

4. Perishables (moving the kitchen)

Food, plants, and living things should not be packed away and transported in a moving truck because they can die or get spoiled. Foods that you shouldn’t pack include frozen foods, produce, opened packages of food, and refrigerated food. Sealed packages of dry foods are probably fine. Keep your contemporary kitchen cabinets safe by asking the movers to cover them before start carrying.

5. Ammunition

This might sound obvious but you shouldn’t have ammunition transported in the back of a moving truck. A deadly situation will arise if the ammunition gets hot. If you need to pack and transport ammunition, only do so in a cool, air-conditioned vehicle. Also be sure to keep the ammunition separate from your firearms.

6. Car Batteries

Car batteries are not suitable to transport in the back of a moving truck because they can leak and become a fire hazard. Furthermore, car batteries can cause injuries and burns to moving personnel if they leak.

7. Moving Documents

You may need to refer to your moving documents at some point during your move, but there is no way you will find them if they are packed away among dozens of boxes. In case a problem arises or you have a disagreement with your mover, it will be convenient for you to have your moving documents on hand.

8. Cash, Wills, Deeds, Cars, and Other Valuables

Don’t pack any of your valuables away in boxes that the moving truck will be transporting. There’s simply no guarantee that they won’t get lost or stolen so to be on the safe side, carry them with you.

*Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lucianvenutian/880467001/

Why Companies Should Use Relocation Management Services

2009-08-29T18:38:00.000-07:00

Whether you’re moving your entire business or just one employee, relocation management is no easy task. A lot of work and red tape goes into planning and executing an employee’s national or international move.

Many managers simply shy away from the task of planning the relocation of their employees because it is so overwhelming. Instead of dealing with such a huge task on their own, a large percentage of companies use relocation management services in order to organize and carry out their employees’ moves. Relocation management companies deal with movers, appraisers, real estate agents, and much more, taking the headache out of employee relocation. A relocation service provider will ensure that your employees receive the utmost level of service, that properties are managed optimally, and that your relocation policies stay in place, no matter what demands are made by your employees. This will keep you, the employer, from getting on the bad side of your employees. A relocation service provider can also assist you with creating relocation policies for your company. Among many other things, you have to decide on the benefits you will offer your employees in exchange for relocating. After all, relocation of employees often involves swaying key players to move to the desired location. An emerging trend is to offer employees a mortgage subsidy plan as a benefit, which allows employees to buy higher-priced homes for the same current payment. Cost of living differentials also sweeten the deal for employees. Although the expenses of relocation can add up quickly, it can be a lot more expensive to hire and train a new employee. Owing to the fact that relocation is so expensive, companies often require their employees to sign a contract stating that they are willing to pay back the costs of relocation if they decide to break their contract. A relocation service provider can help you design a relocation package that is reasonable for both you and your employees. There are a multitude of considerations you have to make when you are relocating your employees, ranging from physical site issues to logistics. Strategic decisions also have to be made about employee benefits, relocation policies, and so on. To ensure that your transition is as smooth as possible, contact a relocation service provider for assistance. The benefits of hiring a relocation service provider are essentially the same as those of outsourcing any tasks that your company does not specialize in. When hiring a relocation service provider, look for one that provides friendly, personalized service. This can make all the difference during the stress of relocation. You also need to ensure that you find a relocation service company that is flexible and willing to focus solely on your needs. Whether you’re moving an employee around the corner or around the world, hire a relocation service provider that can coordinate the relocation process from start to finish. A relocation service company with access to a vast network of partners and resources is sure to provide you with the best moving experience possible.

Essential Tips for Moving into a Mobile Home

2009-08-24T13:31:00.000-07:00

Have you bought a mobile home? In order to get settled into your new abode, you have to find a licensed, qualified mover to help you move your mobile home to the chosen spot. Make sure to find a mover with experience relocating mobile homes to avoid problems.

If you bought a new or used mobile home from a mobile home manufacturer or dealer, they should be able to deliver your home to the desired location. Moving a brand new mobile home is simple since it isn’t hooked up to anything and is empty. However, if you are purchasing a mobile home that’s already on the lot or you are moving your current mobile home to another location, it is a bit more complicated to relocate. Here are some essential tips that will help you move your mobile home and your belongings safely and efficiently.

Make Sure Your Mobile Home Can Be Moved First

Before you do anything else, you need to be sure that your mobile home can be transported. This typically isn’t an issue for new mobile homes, but if your mobile home was built before 1974, you may have trouble finding a mover who is willing to assist you. This is because the Department of Housing and Urban Development did not begin regulating the construction of mobile homes until 1974. As such, the mobile homes built before 1974 are not guaranteed to be structurally sound. Even if your mobile home was built after 1974, you have to be sure that it can be moved safely.

Find a Qualified Mobile Home Mover

Once you determine that your mobile home can indeed be moved, contact several moving companies that specialize in moving mobile homes. Make sure that the companies you want to work with have the licenses and permits required. Talk to each company over the telephone and once you narrow down your options, have them come to your home and give you an on-site estimate. The quote they give you will depend on the size and weight of your home as well as any special needs you may have.

Get Insured

It’s a good idea to get insurance when moving your mobile home because many things can go wrong. If you already have mobile home insurance, check if your insurance policy also includes relocation insurance.

Prepare Your Belongings

If your belongings have already been moved inside of your new mobile home or you are simply moving your current mobile home to another location, prepare everything inside of it to be relocated. All furniture and large appliances should be tied down and secured. Remove food from the refrigerator and turn it off around two days before moving day. Tape or tie the refrigerator doors, cabinet doors, and drawers shut. Large mirrors and glass picture frames should be placed between your mattress and box springs so they stay protected during the ride. Other breakable items like dishes and glassware should be packed and transported separately. The same goes for TVs, light fixtures, and ceiling fans.

Prepare the Outside of Your Mobile Home

There are several things you need to do to prepare the outside of your mobile home for relocation. You have to tie or tape the doors shut to prevent them from flying open during transport. You should also tape your windows shut to prevent them from breaking. Remove all utility connections, such as those for power, water, and sewage. The moving company should be able to do this for you but ask them in advance to be certain.

You also have to remove any outside fixtures such as the deck, porch, or air conditioner. Ask the moving company you hire if they would be willing to remove them for you. If not, you may have to hire a contractor to do it.

While there is no guarantee that your belongings and your mobile home won’t get damaged during the move, you can ensure that your belongings stay as safe as possible by following these simple tips. Tips for moving in San Francisco

*Image Credit: Flickr

Moving? 5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Mover

2009-08-16T11:12:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/sunfox/6651408/

Hiring a competent mover is no easy task. Unfortunately, there are many unscrupulous companies out there so you have to be careful to choose one that is reputable and honest. Interview the companies you are interested on the telephone prior to having them do a walk-through of your home so you can narrow down your choices. Here are some essential questions to ask when interviewing a mover.

1. Ask about their rates and estimates. Most movers offer estimates based on rate per pound and distance. For short distances moves, some movers have an hourly rate. If you are moving long distance, the company must charge by weight. Don’t hire a company that bases their estimate on cubic feet. Find out if the estimate offer is binding or non-binding. With a binding estimate, the price that is quoted in the estimate is the amount you pay. Even if the weight of your shipment exceeds the weight quoted in your estimate, you pay the same amount. With a non-binding estimate, the mover is not bound to the price quoted in the estimate. In most cases, the cost of your move will be more than what was quoted in the estimate. When getting an estimate, make sure you receive a copy in writing. Also make sure that the estimate includes all charges and that both you and the mover both sign it.

2. Ask if the moving company uses subcontractors and if they do, ask for a complete list of the subcontractors’ names and contact information. This information must be readily available and if it’s not, be wary. Most subcontractors are local movers with their own trucks. Meet with the subcontractor and check out their drivers and equipment to ensure that you will still receive quality service. Getting a subcontractor is not necessarily a bad thing because there are many good ones out there but you should always do your homework regardless.

3. Make sure you ask about the details of the insurance that the company offers. Typically, movers’ insurance covers around 60 cents per pound and is not enough to cover the true cost of a damaged item. Assess the value of your goods and what your insurance policy would provide you with if your goods are damaged or get lost.

4. If you are moving long distance, ask if the moving company will at some point transfer your belongings from one truck to another. Such additional transfers are risky because they can increase the possibility of your belongings getting damaged or lost. You should keep this in mind when you are deciding on a moving company to go with. Also determine how the moving company will protect your items against the elements during the winter or rainy season.

5. Determine if your mover charges any additional fees. Movers often charge extra for things like carrying items by hand over longer-than-expected distances, moving difficult pieces of furniture, carrying items up stairs, etc. Extra costs may also include fuel surcharges and transportation surcharges if you are moving to a remote area. If the new residence is not ready for occupancy, your movers will have to store your belongings in-transit and charge extra for that as well. Prior to signing any agreement, discuss all extra charges ahead of time. Avoid extra costs by taking note of large, difficult items, determining where the moving truck will park at the final destination, and investigating any possible obstructions at your new home/apartment building.

These are just some of the many questions you should ask a moving company on the telephone prior to having them do a walk-through of your home. Stay tuned for more tips on hiring a good moving company and making the relocation process as hassle-free as possible.

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2009-08-14T11:14:00.001-07:00

Surefire Ways to Reduce Stress during an Interstate Move

2009-08-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

Moving house can be a very cumbersome process and stressful experience, particularly when it involves moving interstate. When you move out of state, you are moving out of your comfort zone. The people, places, and scenery you had begun to hold dearly will drastically change so you need to be prepared for the move to ensure that you make a smooth transition. Visit Los Angeles Moving Companies now.

Plan Ahead

The first and most important thing to remember when you move interstate is that you must plan ahead to avoid last-minute panic. A few months ahead of the big day, take care to select a competent interstate moving company. Make sure to find an interstate moving company that offers quality service. Don’t be fooled by catchy offers and keep an eye out for hidden costs. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is! Give the interstate moving company you choose plenty of notice to ensure that you can move on the preferred date and receive optimal service.

Give Early Notice

When you are moving out of state, it is important to give early notice to your children’s schools that you are moving so they can prepare the necessary documents you will need to take to the new schools. You also have to let utilities, internet, and telephone companies, your bank, credit card companies, the electoral board, and other important agencies know that you will be moving and provide them with your forwarding address. If you have any magazine or other subscriptions, let them know well ahead of time that you are moving as well.

In addition to letting schools and agencies know that you are leaving, you should also let them know at your final destination that you are coming. Make sure to let new schools know when you are arriving so your children can start attending as soon as you get settled. If possible, try to get your new state driver’s license issued prior to your arrival.

Pack Well in Advance

Do not put your packing off until the last minute! If you are packing your own belongings, pack everything up that you will be taking with you. Set aside a week’s worth of clothing for you and your family as well as other items that you will need throughout the journey. If there are some things you don’t need, get rid of them by donating to charity or holding a garage sale.

Create a Detailed Checklist

The most effective way to prepare for a move and ensure that you don’t miss any important details is to write out a checklist. The following are some tasks you may want to include on your checklist:

• Check out the insurance policies available to you and decide on one for your move
• Mark boxes containing fragile items
• Arrange to have new locks fitted to your new home for total security
• Arrange to have gas, electricity, telephone, and internet disconnected/connected
• File a change of address at the post office
• Use up all of the food in your fridge and freezer
• Buy boxes and packing materials from your mover

• For long distance movers, click here.

These are just some examples of what you’ll want to include on your checklist. With an itemized moving checklist at your disposal, you will be able to maintain focus on making a smooth transition and your stress level will remain lower as a result.

*Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/stuartpilbrow/3345896050/

Hiring a Moving Service: Tips for First-Time Movers

2009-08-04T18:17:00.000-07:00

Hiring a competent mover can be a daunting task. The quality of service you receive from moving companies can range from excellent to absolutely terrible. As long as you research at least 10 companies before making a decision and ask the right questions during interviews, you’re bound to find the right mover for the job. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you hire a mover for the first time. Free Quote from California moving companies.

Know the Details of Your Move

Before you get started with your move, it’s a good idea to figure out exactly what your move is going to look like. Are you packing your belongings by yourself? Will you opt for a flat rate or an hourly rate for your move? During what time frame are you hoping to move? Do you need storage?

Interview Movers on the Phone

Research the background of at least 10 moving companies, getting information about the history of each company and checking out complaint registries. You can call the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Better Business Bureau to request complaint information about movers. Narrow down your options from there.

Once you have a list of potential moving companies, call each one for a telephone interview. Ask them if they offer binding or non-binding estimates and whether or not they are licensed. You can verify if they are licensed by giving your state’s department of transportation a call. Then you can narrow your choices down to the top three, all of which you can have come to your home to assess your move and give you an estimate.

Questions to Ask a Moving Company Consultant

Once you have set up appointments with moving companies to come to your home, have a set of questions ready to ask them. Ask the moving company consultant questions about things such as how long the company has been around, how long the consultant has been giving moving estimates, what pricing options they offer, and whether the company does any repeat work for businesses in the area. You can also test the moving company consultant’s knowledge by asking questions about how they plan to move your fragile items or a particularly cumbersome and large piece of furniture that you own.

It’s important to know how long a moving company consultant has been giving estimates because the more experience the consultant has, the more accurate his estimates are likely to be. And if the moving company itself has been around a decade or longer, it’s probable that they’re doing something right. Further, when you talk to a moving company consultant, make sure you understand their pricing or estimate options very well. You should also ask about the types of insurance that the company offers.

If you find out that the moving company does repeat work for businesses in the area, it’s a good sign that they consistently offer quality service. On the other hand, if you ask a moving company to provide you with a reference, they are never going to provide you with a bad reference so keep that in mind.

Considerations

If you are receiving a flat rate estimate, movers must give you a quote based on weight, not cubic feet. Quotes based on cubic feet measurements are not accurate. If you are moving locally, you may receive an hourly rate instead.

Also remember that if you request any additional services not included in your contract, you will be charged upon delivery. To avoid paying hidden fees, make sure to have your mover list all moving costs in writing prior to the move. The most common type of hidden charge is for packing supplies. Movers may also charge you for wrapping up big items or assembling/disassembling furniture. You can save on some of these extra costs during your move by buying your own packing supplies. San Francisco movers

Tips are not included in moving charges but are almost always expected. If you think the movers did a great job, you can tip anywhere from 5% to 15%. If you think they did horribly, don’t feel obligated to tip and contact the Better Business Bureau to file a complaint instead!

How to Save Money on Moving Supplies when You Relocate with a National Moving Company

2009-07-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

Moving doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket, even if you relocate with a national moving company. Don’t settle for sub-par moving services for the cheap price tag. Simply reduce the costs of your move with some DIY packing strategies! Find a national moving company that would be more than willing to help you cut costs during your move. Any respectable company would be glad to help you save money by allowing you to take care of certain aspects of your move on your own.

The area where you can save most when you apply DIY strategies is packing. Whether you pack your belongings on your own or supply your own packing materials, you can save a lot of money on moving costs by taking care of the packing aspect of your move. Typically, a national moving company supplies moving boxes and other packing materials. Their employees are careful to box your belongings up just as you would but if you are paranoid about putting your fragile belongings in the hands of others or if you prefer to save some cash, you can take care of packing on your own.

Boxes

To get started packing your own belongings, you need to find built-to-last boxes. You can do that by calling local grocery stores and warehouses. With some research, you can certainly find boxes at no cost to you. Typically, boxes are available between 10pm and midnight, right before they are sent out to be recycled. Prior to picking up boxes, measure your electronic appliances, cooking ware, and other equipment so you know what size boxes to fetch when you go to pick them up.

Packing Materials

There are plenty of household items that can be turned into packing material such as blankets and linens. Use them to wrap up breakable items such as appliances and lamps. You can use newspaper to wrap glassware and cookware. To find old newspapers, ask your friends and neighbors if they have any that they are planning to dispose of. Schools and libraries may also have some old newspapers they need to get rid of. You’d be surprised to find that many a large national moving company actually uses newspapers as packing material anyways. It is an eco-friendly way to protect your belongings during relocation to boot.

Use duct tape to secure boxes after packing. Duct tape is very durable and can be strapped to boxes to ensure that they stay closed during transit.

By providing your own packing supplies and/or packing your own belongings during a move, you can save a lot of cash. Of course if you don’t have time or the desire to deal with packing, it is possible to find a moving company that will take care of it for you at a reasonable cost. You can even supply the boxes and materials just to save a little bit of money. If you plan on making all or part of the packing responsibilities of your move a DIY endeavor, find a company that is flexible enough to accommodate your desire to do so.

*Image borrowed from http://www.flickr.com/photos/booleansplit/3758535707/

Understanding moving insurance: Tips To Negotiate A Move

2009-07-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

Your mover is liable for loss of, or damage to, any household goods to the extent provided in the current Surface Transportation Board’s Released Rates Order. You may obtain a copy of the current Released Rates Order by contacting the Surface Transportation Board at the address provided under the definition of the Surface Transportation Board. The rate may be increased annually by your mover based on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Cost of Living Adjustment. Your mover may have additional liability if your mover sells liability insurance to you.

All moving companies are required to assume liability for the value of the goods transported. However, there are different levels of liability, and you should be aware of the amount of protection provided and the charges for each option.

Your mover’s tariff must provide for liability insurance coverage. The tariff must also provide for the base transportation charge, including its assumption of full liability for the value of the shipment. This would offer you a degree of protection in the event your mover fails to issue you a policy or other appropriate evidence of insurance at the time of purchase.

Now having checked out schools, workplaces and so forth, another thing many of us tend to forget is insurance. Accidents occur every day and with that in mind note that these often occur as we are packing, and moving the goods to the new premises.

Therefore we need insurance cover while we are on the road. Many insurance policies which we have for our vehicles, do NOT cover damage to our furniture, or loss if we are involved in any sort of accident. Therefore we need additional travel insurance.

FlatRate maintains $5 million worth of General Liability insurance, as well as required Workers’ Compensation insurance coverage. Nearly every commercial office building in New York City requires insurance certificates prior to any work performed on the premises. The amount of insurance a company carries is an important factor when choosing a mover; should your current or future building require more than the mover is covered for, the management will not allow the movers to work in the building. They maintain a substantial amount of insurance for our client's convenience and peace of mind.

The Big Mistakes

One of the biggest mistakes we make when we move is to underestimate the insurance coverage offered by most movers. Often we check that the company offers insurance and then assume it will cover us for all eventualities and forget about it. This can cause a lot of problems.

When it comes to costs, you should be looking to get at least 2-3 quotes before you make a decision. Don't just look at price but look at what they'll offer you for the cost. It may be more cost effective to pay a little more to get more services. Don't be afraid to ask them about how long they've been in business, their experience or for customer referrals. Talk to them about how long it will take to move you. DO ask them about their insurance cover and claims protection and how far it extends (and doesn't!). You should NEVER choose a moving company that doesn't have adequate insurance. It's also important to get a quote in writing and to make sure that you completely understand how the quotation works. This is one of the times in your life when it really does pay to read the small print. For example, some moving companies won't cover you for damage if you pack goods yourself unless they play an obvious role in damaging them. You must make sure that they not only explain your quote to you but that you get a full copy that includes any relevant terms and conditions, bills of lading etc. It's also good to ask how many people will be assigned to your move - the more there are, the quicker it'll go. Most people generally find that 3 is an ideal number - this gives you 2 people to do most of the loading/unloading and 1 to sort out the vehicle. It also means that somebody is with your possessions most of the time for added security.

Are you trust the mover insurance?

Whilst most moves are smooth and trouble-free, accidents and damage to our property can be a real headache. Insurance cover is therefore a vital part of the moving process. Without it you risk losing or damaging your possessions with no recourse to compensation. You have two ways of ensuring adequate cover - you don't have to choose one over the other and may opt to utilize both:

1. Talk to your current home insurers and ask them if your existing policies cover you during the move. If they do then check if there are any exclusions etc., and, if you don't have cover for the move in writing, ask if they will provide you with a copy. If your insurer won't cover you under your existing agreement or you are worried that the cover is inadequate ask if you can pay a premium for special short-term cover.

2. Talk to your movers before you agree to move with them. Ask them to explain their insurance cover, limits, exclusions and so on and take care to read any policy documents they provide. You should NEVER choose a moving company that does not offer insurance.

Individual moving companies and home insurers will offer varying degrees of insurance cover and claims levels and you'll only really find out how this applies to you by reading the small print of your contract information and by talking to the company about it in depth. In most cases you'll be expected to know how much cover you need and to provide a list of valuable items (you may have to pay extra for these depending on their value). Some insurers will not include certain types of valuables as standard within their policy - they may be willing to insure these items but you will most likely have to pay a premium. Remember that many moving companies won't allow you to claim for damage in transit if they didn't pack your goods themselves. So, unless you can prove that it was their fault, their insurers simply won't pay out if something goes wrong. It's vital therefore to make sure you assess their liability in the event of a claim.

It's also worthwhile checking to see if your moving company's policy includes damage to your premises. The majority of movers are experienced and careful but accidents can happen to your homes as they remove and move furniture etc. Most companies will offer cover for this eventuality - do be aware that if a mover does cause damage to your home on the day of a move you will need to tell them about it immediately (or as soon as you notice it). In all moving insurance policies you'll likely find that there is a specific time-limit for claims. If you discover damage outside of this limit you won't be able to make a claim. Again, check the terms and conditions for actual regulations on this.

You may come across various types of moving insurance cover. Primary types include:

1. No charge for the actual insurance cover as it is included in the moving quote. In this case you may only be able to claim back a percentage of the value of your goods if you experience damage/loss.

2. You buy a policy and pay according to the weight of your goods (generally this works by the pound). This type of policy is often limited by depreciated value so you may not get back what you paid for an item but an estimate of current worth. This is often termed ‘like for like' cover.

3. You pay extra to cover value instead of just weight. In this case you may have to declare the value of your insured goods to the insurer/mover.

4. You pay for a full value policy, which will give you current market value in the event of problems. This is often termed ‘new for old'. This can be in the form of repair, replacement or a payment.

Some movers will ask you for a ‘guestimate' of the total value of your goods. Although this is hard to get right, it's essential to be as close as possible to get the best levels of protection. If you have a lot of really valuable items to move, be prepared to have to produce a list of them, with assessments and perhaps even photos before you can have cover. You'll find that many movers' insurance policies are calculated on a percentage of the removal cost rather than on the value of your goods. This may not be enough for your needs and most will recommend you then to pay a premium for extra cover. You need to check the maximum premium that they will allow for one item and also how much of the claim you will lose if you need to claim on the policy.

For many of us the basic insurance policy of our chosen moving company will be enough. We need to pay particular attention, however, if we are planning a long-distance or international move. If you are moving internationally especially it's essential to have full cover. Your goods may be passing borders and may be subject to custom checks and so on. With these moves you'll have to factor in increased possibilities of accidents, theft, loss, damage and so on. It makes sense here to go with a moving company that is well experienced in these types of moves for best advice and cover. If your goods may be in storage for periods during your moving process then you also need to check the insurance cover for the storage facilities.

Read the small print!

The best way to assess moving insurance policies is to read the small print carefully. Look for exclusions - i.e. clauses that mean that you are not covered by insurance or that will not pay out in certain circumstances. This will give you the clearest idea of the extras you might need, how comprehensive the policy is and the things you might need to look out for. For example, many movers have a ‘pairs' or 'set' clause. This means that if a part of a set of goods is damaged like a dining room chair or a piece of a dinner service the insurers will agree to pay for the damaged item. However they will not pay to replace the whole set if there is no other damage to it even if you cannot find a matching piece. So, if you have a set of four dining room chairs and your movers break one in transit, they'll pay for a replacement for that chair. However, if you cannot find a replacement that matches your set you'll no longer have a matching set and they will not pay to replace all four.

Are they movers, or insurance agents?

In addition to these options, some movers may also offer to sell, or procure for you, separate liability insurance from a third-party insurance company when you release your shipment for transportation at the minimum released value of 60 cents per pound ($1.32 per kilogram) per article (option 1). This is not valuation coverage governed by Federal law, but optional insurance regulated under State law. If you purchase this separate coverage and your mover is responsible for loss or damage, the mover is liable only for an amount not exceeding 60 cents per pound ($1.32 per kilogram) per article, and the balance of the loss is recoverable from the insurance company up to the amount of insurance purchased. The mover’s representative can advise you of the availability of such liability insurance, and the cost.

If you purchase liability insurance from or through your mover, the mover is required to issue a policy or other written record of the purchase and to provide you with a copy of the policy or other document at the time of purchase. If the mover fails to comply with this requirement, the mover becomes fully liable for any claim for loss or damage attributed to its negligence.

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