Frequently Asked Questions
Use Allied's FAQ to help answer any questions you may have during your move process. Our FAQ was designed to answer the most common questions our customers have when moving. From the pre-move planning through the packing process to filing claims, the FAQ is here to help you during your relocation.
Moving FAQ: Pre-Move
When is the best time to move?
Moving companies are busiest during the summer season, specifically May 15 through September 15. Towards the end of these months, the volume shipment is very heavy. This is the standard for all professional movers.
If you can move outside of the summer season, you will likely be afforded more flexibility in your move dates. When scheduling your move, try to be flexible with your move dates, giving a five day window for loading your shipment, if possible. Remember, by staying flexible, you can make your move a little less stressful.
How do I select which moving companies will provide me with a moving estimate?
The best way to find reputable moving companies? Ask for references from friends, neighbors and family members. Also, check out the Better Business Bureau's ratings for various movers.
When should I begin contacting moving companies for estimates?
Ideally, begin your move 8 weeks outside of your desired move date. If this is not possible, try to a lot as much time as possible in between scheduling your estimates and the day you want to move. If you are obligated by your employer to submit estimates for approval, please allow for more time. Decide which movers you are going to use at least 4 weeks from the move date, then call the movers to confirm your booking and schedule your packing, loading and delivery dates. You can shorten this time frame if moving in the off peak season which is September 15 through May 15.
What happens when a relocation consultant comes to my home?
When the relocation consultant comes to your home, he or she will survey the goods in your home to be moved. The consultant will calculate the weight, packing cost and any other charge related to your move. Make sure to put everything you want moved in plain sight so that the relocation consultant can provide the most accurate estimate.
Don't be alarmed if the consultant goes through your closets, cabinets and other similar places. He or she just wants to be sure that all items to be moved are seen and acknowledged before providing the estimate. If you have things you will be eliminating before the move day, please let your consultant know.
Moving FAQ: Pricing and Paperwork
What is a binding estimate?
A binding estimate is a contract that specifies, in advance, the precise cost of the move based on the services requested or deemed necessary at the time of the estimate. If additional services are requested or required at either origin or destination, the total cost will increase.
What is a non-binding estimate?
A non-binding estimate charges you according to the actual weight of your shipment and the actual cost of the services that are performed. You will still go though the estimating process to determine what your shipment may cost.
To verify the weight of your shipment, the driver will weigh his trailer prior to loading your shipment. Once your shipment is on board, the driver will weigh his trailer again. All other charges will be calculated at your origin address. If there are any additional charges that are incurred during the delivery process, the driver will provide you with the additional cost. This is a rare event, but it may occur.
How is the cost of my shipment calculated?
For your long distance or inter-province move, the cost of your shipment is based on the weight of your shipment and mileage. These charges are otherwise known as transportation charges. Ask your relocation consultant to explain all the various charges on your documentation. These various charges can include packing, crating, valuation protection, extra labor and bulky article charges for over-sized items.
How should I pay and what are the payment methods?
All charges must be paid before your shipment is unloaded at your destination, as mandated by tariff provisions. Payments can be made using cash, check or money order. Credit cards may be accepted, but arrange this with your service provider. If your employer is paying for your move, the employer may pre-arrange to be billed via invoice. Discuss the various payment options with your relocation consultant, and have your method of payment established prior to the load day to avoid any unnecessary issues or problems on move day.
What is an order for service?
An Order for Service is written confirmation of the services you requested to be performed in conjunction with your shipment. The Order for Service will also list the agreed upon dates for the pickup and delivery of your shipment, the valuation protection option you selected, special services and your contact information.
The Order for Service also shows the charges you will be assessed for your move. If you are moving under a non-binding estimate, the order for service will indicate the amount of the estimated non-binding charges, the method of payment for the charges and in case the actual charges exceed the non-binding estimate, the maximum amount that you are required to pay at the time of delivery to obtain possession of your shipment (you will have 30 days following delivery to pay the balance of the charges due). If you are moving under a binding estimate, the order for service will show the charges that you will be required to pay at delivery, based on the binding estimate and the terms of payment. You and your mover must sign the order for service.
What is a Bill of Lading?
The Bill of Lading is the receipt for your goods and the contract with your mover for the transportation of your goods. Your driver is required to provide you with a copy of the bill of lading upon loading your goods.
It is your responsibility to read and comprehend the bill of lading before signing the document. The bill of lading will identify the moving company , specify when the transportation is to be performed, the valuation protection chosen, the terms and conditions for payment and the maximum payment required upon delivery (under a non-binding estimate).
What is an Inventory?
As the driver loads your shipment, he or she will inventory your goods. The inventory is a detailed, descriptive listing of your household goods and the condition of each when received by the moving company .
Check the inventory to ensure that everything is correct. PBO means packed by owner, and these cartons will not be listed as the driver is not able to see inside each carton. You will see CP on a line item in the inventory meaning Carrier Packed container. The middle column on the inventory form will have a line with many letters and numbers. This is an inventory code used to make note of the condition of a particular item. To understand this code, look at the top of the inventory form for an explanation. SC - scratched, C - chipped, 3 - right side if piece and 8 for the top of the piece.
The inventory is a way for you to track what is loaded and its existing condition. If damage occurs to an item, get the inventory tag number on that item and make a note in the far right hand column on the line that corresponds with that item. Also, use the inventory to verify that items are delivered in the same condition you left them upon delivery. If there is damage, point it out to the driver.
Allied drivers use extra special care when handling your items, and the inventory is their safeguard against felonious damage claims. Use the inventory as a positive tool to ensure that you and your driver are protected.
Moving FAQ: Packing
Can I pack anything in the drawers of my dresser or desk?
You must pack loose items in cartons to prevent loss or damage. Leave drawers empty and pack all loose items.
Will the driver load all the boxes that I packed?
Yes. As long as the boxes are deemed safe for transport, they will be loaded.
How should I pack my waterbed?
Drain the waterbed completely, or if you have a fiber-filled waterbed, have it professionally vacuum-drained prior to the move date.
Can I pack and move my plants?
Most moving companies will not take your plants. The stress and heat of being inside of the moving trailer usually causes them to die. If moving to the United States, be sure to understand your state's regulations regarding plants prior to moving the plants in your own vehicle.
What should I do with my jewelry and other valuable items?
High-value or irreplaceable items such as jewelry, money, antiques, stamp collections and other collectibles can be included in your shipment, but you must notify your personal move coordinator of these items before packing and move day. However, we strongly recommend that you carry high-value items with you or make other arrangements for their transport.
In the moving industry, extraordinary value items are those valued at $100 or more. To be assured that a claim involving these articles is not limited to minimal liability, complete and sign your mover's version of a high-value inventory form. Also be sure to sign the "Extraordinary (Unusual) Value Article Declaration" box on the Bill of Lading.
How do I prepare my appliances for moving?
Disconnect washers, dryers and refrigerators, and install a stabilizer in the washer. Your coordinator will help you understand how these items are serviced as well as provide you with local service providers to assist you with these items.
How will Allied protect my upholstered furniture?
Allied uses a special product called stretch-wrap, a heavy, clear plastic wrap that protects furniture from soil, tears and other damage.
Moving FAQ: Valuation of Coverage
Am I protected against loss or damage while my goods are in transit?
Yes, but the amount of valuation protection varies upon which you select. The valuation option you choose determines the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and the maximum liability of the carrier. The liability of a carrier for loss or damage is based upon the carrier's tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations that have certain limitations and exclusions. Valuation is not coverage. This is important to understand. It is the liability of the moving company . Check with the provider of your homeowners coverage to find out if you are covered for moving. Often times you will find that you are.
Released Liability Protection - This type of protection is free, yet only provides the bare minimum coverage and is not sufficient enough for almost all shipments. Released liability protection pays $0.60 per pound per article if lost or damaged. So, a piece of furniture weighing 75 lbs would receive a settlement of $45. You will be asked to initial the bill of lading if you select this coverage.
Replacement Value Protection - This is the most comprehensive type of coverage, most often referred to as "RVP." If you purchase RVP, articles will be repaired or replaced to their full value if they are damaged or lost. Depreciation of the lost or damaged item is not a factor in determining replacement value when the shipment is moved under replacement value protection.
Moving FAQ: The Move
How do I prepare my home and myself for move day?
Your mover may ask you to select from one to several consecutive days during which your goods will be loaded. Try and be flexible during this time to ensure a hassle-free process and to secure a truck and driver to load your shipment.
Your relocation coordinator will contact you at least 24 hours prior to load day to make you aware of what time they will arrive. If any changes have occurred, please make your coordinator aware of these changes at this time, such as local construction, unpacked items, etc.
Prepare your home for the move crew by moving things off the porch, clearing walkways, taking doors off hinges, removing throw rugs and similar things to make the pathways clear and navigable.
How will I know where my shipment is once it leaves my home?
Allied's online shipment tracking tool will allow you to trace the whereabouts of your shipment and driver, 24/7. Please be certain to ask your relocation consultant for details.
How will I know when my shipment is going to be delivered?
Your driver will contact you 24 hours prior to delivery. Your personal move coordinator will be able to provide you with an update as to the date your shipment will arrive. Provide the driver with all your new contact information, such as your new phone number where you can be reached. If you will be unreachable, please arrange to have a dedicated person to be there to communicate with the driver.
Moving FAQ: Claims
How do I file and receive my settlement on my claim?
Though we do everything in our power to ensure no damage or loss occurs, it is inevitable that sometimes damage or loss will happen. Should you need to file a claim, understand the claims settlement procedure prior to moving. It is imperative that you understand your coverage and how to proceed through the claims process.
Approach claims adjusters with kindness, not anger. Claim adjusters have a difficult job, and no one wants to have to deal with these unpleasant and unfortunate problems. Understand your coverage and have the proper documentation (your inventory form with the damage noted).
How Was Allied's Moving FAQ?
How did we do in answering all your questions throughout the above FAQ? If you still have unanswered questions, please contact us today. We look forward to speaking with you.