Frequently Asked Questions

If there is a choice, most moving companies suggest you select a time other than summer, the end of the month, or the end-of-year holidays.  The heaviest demands are placed on vans, equipment, and personnel during these periods. However, we believe that you should move when it is most convenient for you.  Factors involved in the decision may include whether the move must be made immediately, transferring children during the school term, or separation of the family while the move is underway.

If the move can be scheduled for a time when vans and trained personnel are more readily available, we’ll be better able to meet your preferred delivery schedule.

FAQ:  How long does it take to move?

This depends on many factors, such as the time of year, weather conditions, size of your shipment, time required to load and unload, and the direction and distance your shipment is traveling.

Because the furnishings of the average household will not fill a van, it is often necessary for two or more shipments to be loaded on the same van.  Each shipment is carefully sectioned off from the others.

With the help of our computer assisted dispatch system, pickup and delivery dates are scheduled according to the origins and destinations of individuals shipments on the van, as well as shipment weight.

FAQ:  When should I call a moving company?

The earlier the better.  Although the actual van assignment may not be made until a few days before your move, it is wise to give your moving company from four to six weeks if possible.  The more lead time you can give, the more likely we will be able to meet your delivery schedule.

All moving companies, for their usual type of service, require alternate pickup and delivery dates.  We’ll do our best, of course, to comply with the dates you prefer or the nearest possible alternative.  You will be notified in advance of the loading date of your goods, and the estimated date of arrival.

If your pickup and delivery dates are critical due to such factors as a lease expiration or a real estate closing, you may choose an extra-cost service which will enable us to accommodate a reasonable schedule.  You should discuss your specific pickup and delivery requirements with us, so we can advise you of the types and costs of services available.

FAQ:  Is a moving company licensed?

An interstate moving company must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation, the federal agency that regulates movers.  We hold such a registration and is subject to all of the consumer and other regulations administered by the D.O.T.

FAQ:  Do I need an estimate?

We will conduct a pre-move survey of your household goods to be transported.  A pre-move survey is needed to determine the approximate cost of a move and the amount of van space your goods will occupy.  We will compute the approximate cost, and
give you a written Estimate/Order for Service.  An accurate estimate cannot be given without a visual survey of the goods to be moved. There is no charge for the estimate.

Keep in mind that estimates (household goods surveys) are only guidelines.  On interstate shipments, you must pay the total charges as determined by the actually weight of your shipment, the distance it travels, and the services which you authorize or which become necessary to handle your shipment.

Charges for local shipments are generally calculated on an hourly basis.  There may be a minimum of number of hours required.

FAQ:  What is a binding estimate?

A binding estimate, or binding cost of services, 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 (such as a shuttle), the total cost will increase.  Binding estimates are valid for the time period specified, up to 60 days.

If you add items to be moved, or require additional services, such as packing, between the time of the estimate and the time of your move, there will be additional charges.  An addendum providing for these additional charges will be prepared for your signature.

FAQ:  How much will my move cost?

Unless you have been given a binding estimate, the exact cost of your move cannot be determined until after your shipment
has been loaded on the van and weighed.  If additional services are requested, or become necessary after loading and weighing, additional charges will be incurred.  Basic transportation charges depend on the actual weight of your goods, and the distance they will travel.  The total cost will include these transportation costs, any charges for Full-Value Coverage or Depreciated Coverage, plus charges for any “accessorial” services (such as packing and unpacking) performed by us at your request. These charges are based on “Tariff” rate schedules.

FAQ:  What is a tariff?

This is the list of rules, regulations, available services, terms and resulting charges used by all motor carriers which provide interstate transportation of household goods.  The tariffs are published by each household goods motor carrier, and include its various services.  The tariffs are available for your inspection at our office, or on request, we will furnish a copy of any tariff provision containing our rates or charges governing the shipment.  Such information is also available for inspection at the offices of the Household Goods Carriers Bureau Committee/American Movers Conference, 1611 Duke Street, Alexandria,
VA 22314.

FAQ:  How and when should I pay?

Tariff provisions require that all charges be paid before your shipment is unloaded at destination (unless prior arrangements
have been made for later billing).

Payment for your shipment can be made by Cash, Traveler’s Check, Money Order or Cashier’s Check.

In addition, the American Express Card, Discover Card, Visa or Master Card, can be used to pay for interstate moves only, with advance approval required prior to loading (unless other billing arrangements have been made).  Personal checks are not accepted. All payment forms apply to both binding and non-binding estimates.

If you have received a non-binding estimate and your actual moving costs exceed the estimate, you will be required to pay no more than 110% of the estimated cost at delivery.  Should your actual costs exceed than more the 10%, you will be given 30 days after delivery over 110%.

Payment of estimated charges plus 10% does not apply if goods are delivered into storage.  If storage-in-transit at destination is necessary, all transportation charges must be paid at time of deliver of the shipment to the warehouse.  You will then be assessed storage charged based on the applicable set forth in our tariff.

FAQ:  Are my goods protected against loss or damage while in transit?

Yes, but how much protection you have and its cost to you depend upon the “valuation” program you choose (Full-Value Coverage or Depreciated Coverage.)  Please call us to learn more about these programs.

The valuation option you choose determines the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and our maximum liability. Our liability for loss or damage is based upon our tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations, and has certain limitations and exclusions.  Valuation is not insurance; it is simply a tariff-based level of motor carrier liability.  If you desire protection afforded by an insurance policy, you should your insurance company representative about available coverages.

FAQ:  Can my possessions be stored temporarily?

If you are unable to take immediate possession of your new residence, your belongings can be stored in our warehouse. However, you are responsible for the storage charges, as well as warehouse handling and final delivery charges from the warehouse.

If your goods are placed in storage, there will also be an additional charge for the valuation or insurance coverage provided for your shipment.  The type of coverage and cost will depend upon whether the shipment is held in storage-transit or in permanent (long-term) storage.  Please ask us for information regarding storage arrangements.

FAQ:  Will my furnishings remain clean?

Our exclusive Sanitized®-treated, air-ride vans provide a clean, safe move. The Sanitized® feature, which inhibits mildew growth and controls insects, is an extra measure of hygienic safety for your belongings. In addition  to this service, we protect your upholstered furniture with ClearGuard^sm, a clear plastic material, before they are wrapped with furniture pads.

FAQ:  Do my appliances need special attention?

Most refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other electrical or mechanical appliances require special servicing to assure safe transportation.  Any moving parts such as motor on major appliances, washer drums, ice makers, and the pickup arm on a phonograph should be securely fastened for shipment.  Gas appliances need to be serviced and disconnected by your local gas utility.

It is the owner’s responsibility to see that appliances are services for shipment before they are loaded on the van.  Upon request and for an additional charge we will perform this service, using either our own qualifies personnel, or an authorized service company.  Call us for more details.

FAQ:  Can I pack my china, glass and crystal?

Most people prefer to have their household possessions, especially fragile items, professionally packed by a moving company.  However, if you decide to pack these items yourself, remember that the basic principles of good packing include wrapping the items individually, providing plenty of cushioning and making sure of a firm pack.

Be sure to select a sturdy container with a lid.  Place a two- or three- inch layer of crushed paper on the bottom of the carton as a cushion.  Wrap each item individually with a soft material to provide a safe, protective “padded nest.”  Pack the heaviest items on the bottom, lighter ones next, filling in empty spaces with crushed paper.  Place plates on edge and glassware on rims for maximum protection.  Mark the carton “Fragile,” and list the content on the outside.  Be sure to seal the carton with tape.  Call us to purchase any packing goods.

FAQ:  Can I pack my clothes in a chest or dresser drawers?

Light weight clothing – sweaters, shirts, blouses, lingerie – may be left in the drawers.  Do not fill drawers with heavy items such as books, table linens or sheets, which can damage the piece of furniture during transit.  Be careful not to leave fragile items, money, jewelry, watches or other valuables in the drawers, as well as anything that might spill or leak.

FAQ:  Can I move my frozen foods?

Frozen foods can be moved, but only under specific, limited conditions.  Be sure to discuss with us.  In most instances, we suggest shipping arrangements be made through local frozen food locker plants, especially for a long distance move.

FAQ:  Can I move jewelry and other valuables?

Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry, money, antiques and stamp collections can be included in your shipment, provided you notify us of these items before packing or moving day. However, we strongly recommend that you carry irreplaceable and expensive articles with you, or make other arrangement for their transport. In the moving industry, items worth more than $100 per pound are considered to items of extraordinary value.  You will need to specify these items on your “Bill of Lading.”

FAQ:  Can I move my house plants?

We cannot accept responsibility your plants because they may suffer from a lack of water and light, as well as probable temperature changes while in the van.  You may prefer to transport your house plants in the family car or ship them by plane.

Regulations vary from state to state regarding entry of plants.  Check with the state to which you are moving.

FAQ:  Can I move my pet?

Pets cannot be carried on the moving van. Dogs, cats, canaries and parakeets can usually be transported in the family car.  If this is inconvenient, call us to discuss alternate ways to ship your pet safely.

TIMELINES:  6-8 Weeks Prior to Date of Move

Working with the Mover:

Call Skyline Movers. Specify a date for the agent to visually survey your household goods and prepare an estimate. Specify articles and be as accurate as possible. Have the estimator explain the types of estimates available to you which will allow you to select the best option for your needs.

If your company is paying for the move, contact the individual responsible for your company’s moving policy to determine the services the mover will be authorized to perform. The total charge will depend on the actual weight of your household goods after they are loaded on the van, plus the cost of any extra services performed by Skyline Movers.

Do you want to do any of the packing — or will you have it done by our experienced personnel? Our agent will be leased to discuss packing services with you. However, if you prefer to do it yourself, ask for our free “Doing Your Own Packing” booklet.

Show the agent everything that is going to be moved. Specify articles that are to be packed so the estimate will include these charges and be as accurate as possible. Any items you fail to disclose or that are added later to the shipment will increase the cost, even if you have been given a binding estimate.

Remember — unless the estimate is binding, it is not the final cost. The total charge will depend on the actual weight of your household goods after they are loaded on the van, plus the cost of any extra services performed by the Skyline Movers agent.

Make certain that you fully understand the extent of the carrier’s liability. The extent of the carrier’s liability is governed by the declared valuation statement on the Bill of Lading.

Sign the Estimate/Order for Service after you are sure you have a clear understanding of each section. If you have questions about any section, ask the agent to explain.

Keep handy our telephone number.

TIMELINES:  4-6 Weeks Prior to Date of Move

Places to Notify:

Let the post office know when you’ll be moving and what your new address will be; a temporary forwarding address may be necessary if you do not have a permanent one before the time you move. As an alternative, the post office will hold your mail and forward it upon written instructions from you. Prepare a list of friends, relatives, business firms and others who should be notified of your move. The following checklist will be helpful:

Utilities	Professional Services	Insurance Agencies	Business Accounts	Gov. & Public Offices	Publications
Electric	Doctor	Life	Drug Store	Veterans Admin.	Newspapers
Gas	Dentist	Fire	Dry Cleaner	Library	Magazines
Water	C.P.A.	Auto	Diaper Service	Refuse Service	Newsletters
Telephone	Lawyer	Home	Lawn Service	State Motor Vehicle Bureau	Professional
Fuel	Broker	Health	Banks/Finance Companies	Social Security Admin.	Fraternal
Sewer District		Accident	Credit Card Companies	State/Federal Tax Bureaus
Trash		Hospital	Laundry Service	City/County Tax Assessor
Cable/Satellite			Dairy
			Auto Agency

Miscellaneous:

Consider having a “garage sale” to dispose of unwanted items. If you donate clothing or household goods to charitable organizations, obtain receipts showing the items’ approximate value for possible tax deductions.

Begin to use up supplies of canned goods, frozen foods and other household items. Buy only what will be used before moving. Consider making shipping arrangements for frozen foods with the local frozen food locker plant.

TIMELINES:  2-3 Weeks Prior to Date of Move

Working with the Mover:

Notify your Skyline Movers agent if you add or subtract items from your planned household goods shipment or if there are any changes in dates of the move. Be sure to also supply the destination location, contact address and phone numbers where you can be reached.

Confirm with your agent any extra stops required to pick up or deliver goods to a location other than the main pickup or delivery points.

If your car is being moved on the van, you are responsible for driving the car to a suitable site for the van operator to load it. You are also responsible for picking up your car at a suitable destination location.

Preparing the Family:

Take the family for a farewell visit to some of the places that hold happy memories.

Have a going-away party for the children and their friends. This gives the youngsters a chance to tell all about the “wonderful new city we’re moving to” and to invite their friends for a visit later.

Have some fun for yourself…an open house or an informal dinner or barbecue. Keep it simple, without elaborate preparations. It’s the guests who are important.

Make family travel plans. Reserve hotel or motel rooms as needed. You may wish to guarantee them on a major credit card in case of late arrival.

Have your car prepared for the trip. Check tires, brakes and windshield wipers. If needed, have the car serviced.

Preparing Household Items:

Federal law requires that you dispose of flammables such as fireworks, cleaning fluids, matches, acids, chemistry sets, aerosol cans, ammunition, and poisons such as weed killer. Skyline Movers can provide you with a complete list of “non-allowables.” Drain fuel from your power mower and other machinery. Discard partly used cans of oil, paint, thinner, bleach, or any other substances that may be flammable or combustible or those stored in containers that may leak.

Refillable propane tanks must be purged\ and sealed by a local propane gas dealer. Discard non-refillable propane tanks which are used for barbecue grills.

Set an appointment with a service technician to prepare your appliances for shipment — or have your agent send someone out who is authorized to perform this service — at least one day prior to moving. Pre- as well as post-moving service may be needed for your washer, dryer, ice maker, grandfather clock, satellite dish, water bed, computer, etc. Third-party servicing will likely be needed before moving such items as hot tubs, large screen televisions and some exercise equipment. Think twice before dismantling your outside TV antenna for moving — a new one may cost less then moving the present one.

Set a date for having utilities disconnected. If possible, plan to keep utilities in service through moving day.

Have rugs and draperies cleaned. Leave both wrapped when they are returned from the cleaners.

Obtain a written appraisal of antique items to verify value. Avoid waxing or oiling wooden antiques (and fine wood furniture) before moving because some products might soften the wood, making it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.

Do not clean your upholstered furniture before moving. Moisture could cause mold if furniture must be placed in storage.

Good packing is essential to a good move. Unless your belongings are properly prepared before they are loaded on the van, the risk of damage is greatly increased. Our packers do a professional job of getting your household goods ready for moving. They have the know-how, experience, equipment and materials needed for maximum protection.

TIMELINES:  1-2 Weeks Prior to Date of Move

Pets and Plants:

Decide what to do with house plants. Skyline Movers cannot accept responsibility for safely moving your plants because they may suffer from lack of water and light as well as probable temperature changes while in the van. You may prefer to transport your house plants in the family car or ship them by plane. Other alternatives: Give them to friends or relatives, donate them to a hospital or other organization, or include them in a garage sale. Some states permit the entry of all house plants; others admit them in accordance with specific rules and regulations. Ask your Skyline Movers agent for a copy of our “Moving With House Plants” booklet.

Take pets to the veterinarian. Most states require health certificates and rabies inoculations. See that identification nd rabies tags are securely attached to the pet’s collar.

Arrange for transportation of pets. Take them in the car or send via air. Consider boarding pets either at destination or at a kennel near your present home until you are settled in the new city. Ask your Skyline Movers agent for a copy of our “Moving With Pets” booklet.

Other Important Details:

Collect any merchandise in layaway at local stores.

Collect all items that are being cleaned, stored or repaired (clothing, furs, shoes, watches, etc.). Empty your locker at the club, bowling alley or gym.

Return library books and anything borrowed from friends or neighbors, and collect things you may have loaned.

TIMELINES:  Day Before You Move

Working with the Packers:

Point out to the packers any extra-fragile items needing special attention. Mark appropriately any items you do not want packed or moved, as well as cartons you will want first when the van arrives at destination.

If you are doing your own packing, make sure everything is ready to go before moving day. Upon arrival, the van operator will check to see if boxes have been properly packed.

Collect things you definitely want packed together, such as children’s toys, and place in separate groups.

Unplug all electronic appliances 24 hours in advance of a move, if possible, so that they will be at room temperature on moving day. This includes TV sets, home computers and stereos.

Last Minute Details:

Check closets, cabinets, and storage lockers for any articles overlooked.

Be on hand when the service representative arrives to prepare your appliances for shipment.

It is the owner’s responsibility to see that all mechanical and electrical equipment is properly serviced for shipping prior to the arrival of the moving van. Servicing is at the owner’s expense. Most items such as washers, stereos, grandfather clocks. copiers and computers have components, which must be securely fastened prior to shipping. For safe moving of such articles, the units should be prepared by a licensed or properly trained service technician. Upon request, and for an additional charge, a moving company is permitted to perform this service with qualified personnel or arrange for it through an authorized service company. If the owner has failed to have an article serviced, the van operator may load and haul it but will mark the inventory sheet “Not Serviced.” Request a copy of our “Moving Appliances & Other Home Furnishings” booklet for more information from your Skyline Movers agent.

TIMELINES:  Moving Day

Working with the Mover:

It is your responsibility to see that all of your goods are loaded, so remain on the premises until loading is completed. After making a final tour of the house to be sure no items have been overlooked, check and sign the inventory. Get your copy from the van operator and keep it.

Approve and sign the combination Bill of Lading and Freight Bill. It states the terms and conditions under which your goods are moved and is also your receipt for the shipment. Be sure you have completed and signed the declared valuation statement in the space provided on the Bill of Lading, if applicable to your shipment.

Complete and sign the High-Value Inventory form, whether or not items of extraordinary value are included in the shipment. You also need to sign and date the “Extraordinary (Unusual) Value Article Declaration” box on the Bill of Lading, if applicable to your shipment.

Make sure you have the destination agent’s name, address and telephone number. Your local agent or the van operator can provide you with this information.

Make sure the van operator has the exact destination address. Be sure about where and how you can be reached, including telephone numbers, pending the arrival of your household goods. Contact the destination agent whose name appears on the Bill of Lading. Try to do this as soon as possible, and indicate where and how you can be reached while your shipment is in transit. Give the agent the phone number and make arrangements to accept delivery of your household goods. You may also want to notify us at origin of your whereabouts. If you are not sure of our contact information, you can provide us a name of a third party individual who you intend to communicate with while you are in transit.

Last-Minute Details:

Even if you own the telephone in your home, please leave it connected throughout moving day. After the van leaves and you finish last-minute calls, be sure to pack the phone in one of your suitcases.

Take a last look around:

• Water shut off?
• Furnace shut off?
• Light switches turned off?
• All utilities arranged for disconnection?
• Windows shut and locked?
• Old house keys surrendered?
• Have you left anything?

TIMELINES:  Delivery Day

Working with the Mover:

Be on hand to accept delivery. If you cannot be there personally, be sure you authorize an adult to be your representative to accept delivery and pay the charges for you.

On the day of delivery, the van operator will attempt to contact you by phone and/or will make an appearance at residence if he is unable to reach you. If you are unable to be contacted by phone, leave a note on your residence door indicating where you can be reached. If neither you nor your representative appears to receive the shipment within the free waiting time, your household goods will be placed in storage. You will be responsible for all additional charges related to the storage and re-delivery of your goods. One hour of free time is allowed at destination if the shipment is traveling less than 200 miles; two hours of free time are allowed if the shipment is traveling 200 miles or more. (No free waiting time is allowed at origin.)

Check your household goods as they are unloaded. If there is a change in the condition of the property from that noted on the inventory at the time of loading or if any items are missing, note any damage and/or missing items on the van operator’s copy of the inventory sheet. By signing the inventory sheet, you are acknowledging receipt of all items listed. Personally report any loss or damage to your Skyline Movers agent at destination immediately, they will assist you.

When unloading, each piece of furniture will be placed as you direct, including the laying of rugs and setting p of box springs, mattresses and bed frames. However, appliances and/or fixtures will NOT be installed. At your request and at an additional charge our agent will arrange for this service and for the refilling of water bed mattresses.

You may want to place a floor plan of your new home by the entrance which the movers will use. Show on it where each piece of furniture should go.

Keep all documents pertaining to your move in a safe place. You will need them for verification of moving expenses when you file your federal income tax returns.

To prevent possible damage, television sets, other electronic equipment and major appliances should not be used for 24 hours after delivery, allowing them time to adjust to room temperature.

TIMELINES:  1 Week After You Move

Settling In:

Check with the post office for any mail being held, and ask for delivery to start.

Check state (and local) requirements for auto registration and an operator’s license.

Once you’ve selected a family physician and dentist, you’ll need to have records transferred. Usually, dental records can be sent to your new dentist by simply making a phone call. Transferring medical records from your previous physician normally requires a written request and your signature. If you want to obtain any previous hospital records on your health history, write the medical records department at the hospital where you were a patient. You’ll need to include your previous physician’s name and the name of your new doctor.

You may want to select an attorney to discuss laws that pertain to your destination state, county, and/or city. Be sure to cover such matters as wills, transfers of property and investments, insurance regulations, inheritance laws, taxes, etc. Most laws affect a family as soon as residence in the new state and city is established.

TIPS ON PACKING:  Before You Begin

Pre-planning for the transfer of your pet, s well as for your household goods, should begin as soon as you know you are going to move. Consider the following…

Good packing is essential to a good move. If you choose to do some or all of your own packing in preparation for your relocation, it’s especially important that you be familiar with the techniques which will best protect your possessions. We’ve prepared this information to share with you those methods which professional packers use every day.

If your shipment includes delicate china, crystal, family heirlooms or other items which need special attention, we recommend that you discuss professional packing service with us. We’ll be glad to explain costs, materials and the unpacking services available at your new home.

You can depend on us for knowledge and experience in helping you prepare for your move. We are happy to assist you and ensure that your relocation is as effortless as possible.

Consider your responsibility for packing.

If you decide to do the packing yourself, you automatically assume a major portion of the responsibility for the success of the move – including that of having everything properly packed and ready for loading when the van arrives. All packing must be completed by the evening before moving day. Only the things you’ll need that night and the next morning should be left for last-minute packing.

In addition, your packing will be expected to meet specific standards. This means complying with the principles of good packing, as well as following the suggestions relative to items that should not be included in the shipment.

Skyline Movers will inspect the cartons you have packed prior to loading the van. If, after inspection, it is their opinion that the articles are improperly packed or that cartons are susceptible to damage, the company may refuse to load the cartons until the questionable items are re-packed by the moving company or removed from the shipment. There is, of course, a charge for any packing services performed by the moving company.

Plan ahead

Normally, our packers can complete the packing for an average move on the day before the goods are loaded on the van. “Pack-it-yourselfers” should allow more time – several weeks, if possible. Since it’s unlikely you’ll be able to drop everything to devote an entire day to packing, plan to work at it between your other pre-move activities.

Preparing a convenient place to work and keeping your packing materials in one location are important in completing the packing job by moving day. If there’s a spare room available, consider setting it up as your packing headquarters.

A large table covered with a heavy blanket, quilt or mattress pad makes a good, firm work surface. It is helpful to have a second covered table nearby for soon-to-be-packed items.

Gather together everything you’ll need:

• Various sizes of sturdy cartons with flaps that can be properly closed;
• White paper, tissue paper, paper towels or newsprint – good for all purpose wrapping and cushioning;
• Newspapers for cushioning or use as outer wrapping only;
• Gummed tape and/or strong twine for sealing packed cartons;
• Scissors and/or sharp knife;
• Felt-tip marker for labeling cartons;
• Notebook and pencil for listing cartons as they are packed;
• Labels or stickers

Not recommended for the van

It’s best to make other arrangements for the transfer of certain negotiable items or articles of extraordinary value. Or, take them with you. However, if you decide to include such items in your shipment, be sure to list them on the high-value inventory form which will be provided to you.

• Cash
• Personal Papers
• Move Documents
• Deeds, wills or trusts
• Evidence of Debt
• Securities
• Jewelry
• Furs
• Stamp or Coin Collections
• Family Photographs

TIPS ON PACKING:  Loss and Damage Protection

You may choose from our Full-Value Coverage or Released Rate Liability. The option you choose determines our maximum liability to you. Valuation is not insurance; it is a tariff level of motor carrier liability. How much protection you have and it’s cost to you depend upon the option you choose.

Full-Value Coverage

If articles are lost or damaged while in our care, under Full-Value Coverage, at our option your goods will either be repaired, replaced with like items or a cash settlement made for the current marketplace value, regardless of the age of the item. Unlike other options, depreciation is not a factor in determining replacement value.

Full-Value and deductible options are available in increments to fit your needs at very attractive rates. Minimum total declared value under the Full-Value Coverage program must equal the weight of your shipment multiplied by $5.00.

Released Rate Liability

This no-additional cost plan provides the minimum tariff level of carrier liability for your shipment. Loss or damage claims will be repaired or settled based on the pound weight of the damaged or lost article multiplied by 60 cents.

TIPS ON PACKING:  Ready, Set, Pack!

Good packing means:

• Limiting cartons, when possible, to a maximum weight of 50 pounds to make handling easier.
• Wrapping items carefully.
• Providing plenty of cushioning to absorb shock.
• Using sturdy cartons that close.
• Making sure cartons are firmly packed and do not rattle, bulge outward, or bend inward.
• Not mixing items from different rooms in the same carton, when possible.

Checklist:

Start with out-of-season items. Next pack those things used infrequently. Leave until last the things you’ll need until moving day.

Empty drawers of breakables, spillables and anything that would puncture or damage other items.

Pack similar articles together. Do not pack a delicate china figurine in the same carton with cast iron frying pans, for example.

Keep all parts or pairs of things together. For example, curtain rod hangers, mirror bolts, and other small hardware items should be placed in plastic bags and taped or tied securely to the article to which they belong.

Wind electrical cords, fastening them so they will not dangle.

Wrap items individually in clean paper: use tissue paper, paper toweling or even facial tissues for fine china, crystal and delicate articles. Colored wrapping draws attention to very small things. Use a double layer of newspaper for a good outer wrapping.

Place a two or three-inch layer of crushed paper in the bottom of the carton to serve as a cushion.

As each layer is completed, fill in empty spaces firmly with crushed paper and add additional crushed paper to make a level base for the next layer or use sheets of cardboard cut from cartons as dividers. Towels and lightweight blankets may also be used for padding and cushioning. The more fragile the article the more cushioning needed. Be sure no sharp points, edges or rims are left uncovered.

Build up in layers, with heaviest things on the bottom, medium weight next and lightest ones on top.

Pack small, fragile, individually wrapped articles separately or a few together in small boxes, cushioning with crushed or shredded paper. Place the small boxes in a single large box, filling in spaces with crushed paper.

Avoid overloading the carton but strive for a firm pack which will prevent articles from shifting; the cover should close easily without forcing but should not bend inward.

Seal cartons tightly with tape.

As you finish with each carton, list it and an inventory of its contents in a special notebook. You may want to number and code the cartons as well.

Label cartons clearly by marking each carton on the upper right-hand top, side and end corners. When marked in this way, determining the contents of any carton in a stack is easier. Indicate YOUR NAME and the room to which the carton should be delivered at destination, e.g.: “Kitchen”, “Family Room,” “Master Bedroom.” Tape a sign on the door of each room at destination corresponding to the carton labels, so the movers can get the cartons into the proper rooms quickly.  Put a special mark on those cartons you want to unpack first upon arrival.

TIPS ON PACKING:  How To Pack