Packing
What constitutes packing and is there a charge for it?
When the mover refers to packing, he is referring to the containerizing or boxing of items in preparation for shipping. These are items such as dishes, glassware, pots and pans, lamps, mirrors, linens, clothing, mattress and box springs, etc. Any items that require containerizing in boxes, there is a charge for. However, wrapping of furniture is not considered packing. Normally, furniture is wrapped and quilted in furniture pads at no additional cost to you. The wrapping and preparation of most furniture is part of the normal moving process.
**If the mover uses bubble wrap without the shippers’ consent or request, it is immoral, as well as illegal to charge for it. There are many scams that occur where companies use excessive amounts of bubble wrap, as well as other packing materials other than furniture pads, in an effort to extort additional monies from the customer.
Van lines Vs. Self-packing?
When moving, it's important to decide whether or not you're going to do some of the packing, all of the packing, or let the mover do all of the packing for you.
Important:
If you do your own packing, you are responsible for the contents of your boxes, not the mover. It becomes the movers responsibility when the mover either losses or damages the carton. When the movers do the packing, they charge based upon three tariff items: for the container, for the packing, and for the unpacking. Extras such as tape, paper, bubble wrap, paper pads, etc., should all be included in the labor charge and should not be an additional charge. The only exception to this is when they charge you based upon time. In that case, they will only charge you for the materials, the labor will be charged by the hour. When the mover does the packing, they are 100% responsible for the goods they pack.
NOTE: That does not mean that you will get full value if they break your goods, all it means is that they take responsibility, for the breakage. If you sign for released value of $.60 per pound, that is what you will be reimbursed. Make certain that all the items the movers pack are listed not only on the outside of the carton, but also on the inventory.
Important:
Make sure that you request the movers unpack your goods at destination, because your best chances of reimbursement if items are broken, is if notations are made on delivery documents. If you deny the unpacking service and unpack the boxes packed by the movers and find damage, the movers possible recourse is that you could have broken the items as you were unpacking the cartons. So even if it is inconvenient for you, at least have the movers unpack the breakables. Note: Movers may, at your request, pack and unpack boxes that you supply based upon an hourly rate charge.
Do the movers supply cartons?
Most if not all movers carry a large assortment of boxes and materials to pack the contents of your home. These boxes are NOT FREE. Movers pay for them and will usually charge you a discounted rate should you decide to move with them. We do not recommend getting boxes from your local grocery store. These boxes are often flimsy and many times carry insects because foodstuffs surround them. Always use double corrugated boxes, not single. The stronger your boxes, the better chance your goods have surviving any mishaps, should they occur.
What items should I have the movers pack?
If you have the time, it is possible to save money by packing your own boxes. We suggest packing your non-breakables such as clothes, linens, books, etc. However, we highly recommend you have the movers pack your breakables, especially the more fragile and expensive ones. Most professional packers will wrap and pack these items with care. They are trained professionals and will almost guarantee that these fragile items will arrive to your new home without a scratch. There is another major advantage to the movers packing, ACCOUNTABILITY. When the movers pack your goods, they assume responsibility for all articles they pack. Other items we recommend the movers’ pack are large glass, mirrors, pictures, marble, art, mattresses and box springs.
What items shouldn't I ship?
Anything flammable or under combustion such as aerosol cans, propane tanks, paints, etc. should not be shipped. No plants or perishables (there is an exception to this if you move within 150 miles and/or 24 hours). Be cautious shipping any liquids! Should any of these liquids spill or leak and cause damage to yours or any other goods upon the moving truck, you ultimately become responsible for all damages that may occur. |
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