| Moving, Packing and Utilities |
While just the thought of relocating can be stressful, with planning and helpful resources, the process can be managed. In this section, you’ll learn about ways to pack, how to prepare for your move, utilities in the area and additional resources. Once you’re established in the area, a real plus is discovering how genuinely friendly most Houstonians are and how ready they are to welcome you to the city and your neighborhood. It’s not uncommon that a neighbor will greet you warmly with a plate of cookies and be glad to share resources with you.
As soon as you’ve received word that you and your family are being relocated, contact your company’s relocation representative to find out what company will be moving your goods. Ask if the moving company provides any information to help make the move easier and verify the move date. At some point, you’ll want a direct contact at the moving company to ensure you have an open communication flow and there are no misunderstandings. Your moving company also will need to ask you questions and be in touch with you directly as moving day approaches.
It’s also possible that the moving company has resources regarding storage in the Houston area, should you require additional space to place your furnishings, a boat or an additional vehicle.
As you plan your move, we hope the following resources will help make your relocation process manageable and organized. Once you’ve arrived and are established in your new community, Houston’s hospitality will make you feel at home quickly.
Moving companies provide a variety of services for a range of fees. It is a good idea to speak with different movers to compare their services. To find out who the best movers are in your area, begin by asking friends about their experiences with the movers they have used. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) or other consumer organizations in your local area.
When selecting a mover, the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) encourages consumers to select a moving company that is an AMSA member. Members have all agreed to abide by the terms of the organization’s published tariffs and to participate in the Arbitration Program sponsored by the organization.
Once you have compiled a list of movers, inform them of the destination and timing of your move. Ask them about the types of services they offer. Also ask them to explain their estimates in detail and to give you a copy. Then carefully compare to see which mover best suits your needs and budget.
If you are moving out of state, you should read and understand all of the information you will receive. In addition to brochures explaining their various services, moving companies should give you a copy of a consumer booklet titled, “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move,” and information regarding the mover’s participation in a Dispute Settlement Program. Distribution of the consumer booklet and the requirement that movers offer shippers neutral arbitration as a means of settling disputes that may arise concerning loss or damage on household goods shipments are requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
AMSA advises that you make arrangements for your move well in advance, at least four to six weeks before the moving date. When you choose your mover, be sure you understand the following:
- Rates and charges that will apply
- Mover’s liability for your belongings
- How pickup and delivery will work
- What claims protection you have
GETTING ESTIMATES
The cost of an interstate move is usually based on the weight of your belongings and the distance they are shipped, plus the amount of packing and other services that you require, according to the AMSA. Your bill will be higher or lower depending on how much your shipment weighs and how far you move.
To help you anticipate the cost of your move, movers will give you an estimate of the price. Be sure to get written estimates from at least three different companies so you can compare their services and prices.
Help the movers calculate the cost of your move by showing them every single item to be moved. Don’t forget to go into the attic, basement, garage, shed, closets and under beds. Reach a clear understanding about the amount of packing and other services needed. Anything omitted from the estimate but later included in the shipment will add to the cost.
Most movers offer three types of estimates—nonbinding, binding and not-to-exceed.
— Nonbinding Estimates
Nonbinding estimates are not bids or contracts. Instead, a nonbinding estimate is an approximation of the cost based on the mover’s survey of the items to be moved with the final cost determined after the shipment is weighed. Since a nonbinding estimate is based on the actual weight of your shipment (rather than the estimated weight), the price will usually be lower than a binding estimate. However, when you receive a nonbinding estimate, there is no guarantee that the final cost will not be more than the estimate.
