Moving Estimates and Extra Charges
Get involved in the estimating process and try to meet with the relocation consultant to survey your home and prepare a written estimate. Keep in mind that certain movers offer estimates that are outrageously low compared to others, and then hand you a large bill when the move is complete. In order to avoid this predicament Make sure you ask the movers how long his or her estimate is valid for and question whether the estimate is a binding or a non-binding. For the difference between binding and non-binding see glossary of moving terms.
Moving Estimates and Extra Charges
Inform the movers of any possible unusual situations on either end so your estimate can be more accurate. Make the mover aware of any problems that he may encounter at the delivery such as parking problems, road access, street accessibility, delivery time restrictions or if there are any stairs or elevators involved. The cost of your move can increase for such occurrences. Try to reserve a "parking space" for the moving van if your new home is on a congested street. If the moving crew has to carry your load more than 75 feet from the moving van to your door you may be charged for excessive distance. Some neighborhoods may prohibit trucks over a certain weight. The driver will offload your possessions into a smaller vehicle and the charge for that can be quite high. Advise the relocation consultant if you anticipate this situation arising. In addition, advise the consultant if you are moving to a high-rise building where an elevator reservation is required. This can cause problems for the delivery schedule if the mover does not know about this in advance and additional charges will likely apply. Decide in advance which goods will be shipped and which will be sold or given away. Then consider whether or not you would like the mover to pack and what other type of additional services you may want. Remember that packing is always a separate bid from moving. For packing services and supplies see Packing Supplies.
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