Friday, February 15, 2008

All My Sons of Dallas's Tips for a Smooth Move


1. Have an estimator out to get a written estimate. Be cautious of over the phone estimates. That is just what they are, at best, an educated guess. It is best to get at least three in home estimates. Two out of the three will be very close in cost, weight and services provided. Decide on one of these. The other proposal will either be very high or low. Avoid that carrier, more than likely they are not revealing all the cards in their deck.

2. Ask questions. At any time if you do not understand something that is told to you over the phone or in person, ask. The moving industry is very intricate and has a language of its own. If you are not pleased with the response to your question(s) or if the moving professional pauses before answering you, talk to someone else.
Some questions you should ask:
Are you licensed?
Are you insured?
Are you a member of the BBB (Better Business Bureau)?
Can you get a “Price and Time Guarantee”?
Are you men full time employees, or day laborers?
Can you provide me with current references?

3. Be reachable by phone. A couple of days prior to your move as well as the day of your move are assessable for the movers. This can save time and ensures that you will be given all information before your move starts, and not at the time of arrival. Also, give the crew leader a contact number in case you are separated anytime during the day while traveling; in addition to getting a number for the driver.

4. Take ALL valuables with you. All My Sons of Dallas does not require that you remove all items from filing cabinets and dresser drawers. What we do ask is that you take anything out that is precious or breakable, such as cash, jewelry, important personal papers, photographs, or anything you deem important.

5. Carefully ready all documents. Read and complete the Bill of Lading. This is a legal contract with you and your local mover, treat it so. Also, read thoroughly your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move in Texas.

6. Do a walk through before leaving. Make sure you do a complete walk through of your home with the crew leader. Checking all closets, drawers, pantries, attics and or basements to make sure nothing was missed.

7. Try to relax. The more prepared you are the better, however no matter how prepared you are things sporadically go wrong. Moving is one of the most stressful yet exhilarating times in your life. Get a good night sleep the night before, be patient and remember to breathe.

8. Be available. Movers will have questions. Try to arrange all closings for a day or two before your move. This will help to relieve some of your stress during the move if all you have to do is concentrate on the move and nothing else.

9. Have estimated funds on hand. You will have to pay the movers preceding the offload of your items at your new home. Make sure you have the money available in cash, certified check/money order or credit card.

10. Supervise unloading and unpacking. It is always a good idea to be there when the crew is unloading the truck into your new home. This way you can let them know where they are to put them, as well as inspect them for any damages that may have occurred during the move. Be sure to make note of any damaged or missing items before the movers leave. Check the truck as well before they are ready to go.

TOP OF PAGE

No comments: