The Moving Process: What to Expect from a Moving Company
Moving can be quite overwhelming! If you’re new to the process or haven’t hired a professional moving company New Jersey before, here’s a basic overview of what to expect and consider when choosing a mover to handle all your belongings. This isn’t an exhaustive list, so depending on your situation, there may be additional factors to keep in mind.
The At-Home Estimate: What to Expect
When preparing for your move, a salesperson or move coordinator will visit your home to evaluate your needs. During this visit, they’ll review the details of your move, including the moving date, destination, and any specifics about your new home, if available.
They’ll also gather information about the services you require, such as packing, storage, or any additional pick-up or drop-off locations. The coordinator will conduct a thorough walkthrough of your home, inspecting all areas where items are stored, such as closets, drawers, the garage, and even crawl spaces.
It’s important to be upfront about everything you plan to move. If in doubt, include it in the estimate to avoid unexpected costs later. Special circumstances, such as upcoming life events or holidays, may require additional items (like baby furniture or gifts) to be accounted for during the move.
Transparency is key during this process. Adding items after the estimate is finalized can result in penalties or invalidate discounts, as the quote is based on what the surveyor observes during their visit. To avoid complications, ensure the coordinator has a complete and accurate picture of your moving requirements.
Before concluding, the surveyor will review your moving plans with you and explain valuation protection options for your belongings, which will be included in the estimate. This detailed assessment sets the foundation for a smooth and stress-free moving experience.
Understanding the Assessment and Estimate Process
Your moving estimate will be determined by the observations and discussions conducted by the surveyor. Most moving companies provide a detailed estimate that clearly outlines all costs, including any additional services you may require. These services might include:
- Shuttle Service: Necessary if a large tractor trailer (53’) cannot access your location. A smaller truck will shuttle your items to the main trailer. This involves extra handling, so it’s advisable to opt for valuation protection to safeguard against potential damage.
- Fees for Specific Routes: This includes charges for bridges, ferries, or toll roads.
- Packing Services: Options range from full packing, where the mover handles everything, to partial packing for specific items like fragile goods.
- Storage Options: Temporary or long-term storage may incur additional costs.
- Extra Pick-Up or Delivery Stops: If you need multiple stops, these will also be factored into the estimate.
When comparing estimates, obtain at least three written quotes. Examine the weight, services, and total costs carefully. Some quotes may offer guaranteed pricing, while others—particularly lower ones—could fluctuate based on the final weight or services rendered. Be wary of low-ball estimates, as these can lead to unexpected fees once your items are loaded onto the truck.
Reputable moving companies typically do not require full payment upfront. A small deposit may be requested to secure your booking, but the full amount will not be due until your items are loaded, weighed, and the charges are finalized. Once the weight has been confirmed, you’ll receive the final cost and be expected to pay in full prior to delivery.
By understanding these steps and reviewing your estimate carefully, you can avoid surprises and ensure a smooth moving process.
Preparing for Your Relocation: Steps to Stay Organized
- Plan Your Move with a Calendar
Begin by requesting a moving calendar from your mover to stay on top of important dates and deadlines. - Declutter Your Home
Sort through your belongings and decide what to take. Donate items you no longer need, and your mover can suggest donation organizations to simplify this process. - Pack Strategically
If you’re handling any packing yourself, start well in advance. Organize your boxes by room and clearly label them with:- Your last name
- A brief description of the contents (e.g., “books,” “kitchenware”)
- The room where they belong in your new home
Consider numbering your boxes and keeping a detailed inventory. For ease of unpacking, prioritize boxes as A, B, or C, with A being the most important to unpack first.
- Secure Valuable Items
Pack essential items—like money, jewelry, documents, and photos—to travel with you personally. Movers are not liable for these valuables if lost or damaged. - Prepare Your Home for Movers
- Roll up rugs and clear pathways, especially around entrances and stairs, to reduce tripping hazards.
- Empty and unplug your fridge and freezer in advance.
- Separate Items You’re Taking Personally
Set aside items you’ll take with you, such as suitcases or personal boxes. Use neon post-it notes or place these items in a designated space, like the bathtub, to signal to movers that they are not to be handled.
What to Expect on Relocation Day
Preparations Before Arrival
The driver and crew will start their day by gathering paperwork, preparing the truck, and weighing it at a local scale. This initial process can take some time, especially if traffic delays occur. While movers usually aim for an early start, don’t worry if they aren’t at your door exactly at 8:30 AM.
Arrival and House Tour
Once the movers arrive, they’ll set up their truck and come inside to meet with you. The driver will walk through your home to get a clear understanding of what’s being moved, what’s staying behind, and what items might require disassembly. This is your opportunity to point out anything special or confirm plans for items you’re moving on your own.
Tagging and Inventory
The driver will catalog all your belongings, tagging each item with a number and noting its condition (e.g., scratched, chipped, or new). This inventory process is crucial for tracking your items and ensuring accountability during the move.
Furniture Disassembly and Loading
Large items, such as beds and tables, will be disassembled to make them easier to transport and protect them from damage. Small parts, like screws or TV remotes, will be stored securely in a “parts box” or taped to the corresponding item.
Loading the truck is like solving a giant puzzle. The crew will carefully arrange your items to maximize space and minimize shifting during transit.
Breaks and Weather Impact
Moving is physically intense, and the crew may take short breaks to stay refreshed, especially if the weather adds extra challenges like heat or rain. Rest assured, they’ll work efficiently while keeping safety a priority.
Final Check Before Departure
Before the movers leave, do a thorough walkthrough of your home. Check behind doors, inside closets, and in crawl spaces to ensure nothing is forgotten. This is your last chance to confirm that everything intended for the move is loaded onto the truck.
Paperwork and Protection Plan
The driver will review paperwork with you and confirm your valuation protection choice. This protection determines how much compensation you’ll receive if any damage occurs. Opting out means minimal coverage—for example, just $24 for a 40-pound, $3,000 TV. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification before signing.
Staying in Contact
Provide the driver with your phone number and confirm theirs to ensure smooth communication throughout the move. The driver will reach out to coordinate delivery details and discuss any issues that arise during transit. Keep their number handy in case of emergencies or schedule changes.
With clear communication and proper planning, relocation day can go smoothly, leaving you ready to settle into your new home without unnecessary stress.
After the Move
If you discover any damage, you can file a claim. Reach out to your mover and inform them about the damaged or missing items, providing as detailed a description as possible. You’ll likely need to fill out a form. The claims process can take some time, so please be patient.
Remember, a claim must be initiated within nine months of the moving date, and you can only submit one claim, so make sure you have proof of the damage. Keep copies of all your moving paperwork, as you might be able to claim part of your move on your annual federal taxes. Lastly, take a moment to leave an online review on the mover’s Facebook page or their website.
