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We understand that moving house
or business is not something most people do very often, and a good
deal of planning and preparation goes into even the smallest move.
Here are some tips that can help assure you a smooth, comfortable
move, with minimum surprises.
Rule # 1: ask lots of questions so that you are
a well-informed consumer. When getting estimates, be sure to tell
the estimator everything you are moving. If you leave out “a
few pieces”, it will affect the quote you receive. Don’t
underestimate the number of boxes you will have – you may
find that boxes make up a healthy part of what you are moving (clothing,
linens, pots and pans, dishes, books, CDs, etc.)
If you are getting estimates from few companies, write out a list
so that you are giving all the estimators you contact the same information.
Depending on the size of your move it may be a good idea to have
an estimator visit your home and take a walk through. An at home
consultation will allow you to meet a company’s representative,
and will help avoid low-ball estimate. Upon completing the walk-through,
the estimator should provide you with a written estimate of probable
cost, or a written binding estimate.
A Written Binding Estimate is the legal term for a “flat
price”. If you receive a written Biding Estimate (WBE), make
sure you carefully read the back of the contract. There are a few
conditions that, if not complied with, will make the agreement void.
Also, a WBE is not valid unless you have had an on site evaluation
– the company must see the goods, take an agreed upon inventory,
and pre-determine services to be provided.
We suggest asking the companies you contact by phone to fax or
mail a written estimate. An inventory list should accompany the
price quote (the price is generally based on the inventory –
you want to make sure the estimator took into consideration everything
you told them over the phone) . Also seeing the inventory in writing
will bring to your attention any pieces that were not discussed.
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