Beware of The “Car Salesman” Approach to Contracted Moves
No offense to our friends in the auto industry. That laundry list of “extras” that you offer are valued and welcomed by some, abhorred by others. True professionals in all industries strictly limit goods and service offerings predicated upon a verified client need.One of the things you need to be aware of is that by law within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, moving companies MUST provide Basic Liability coverage for all goods moved. This coverage is insufficient for most move scenarios. But before you leap in and buy an expensive policy from your mover, you should know what you are covered for already. If your homeowner’s policy is in force for the entire period of your move, then you are most likely covered for catastrophic loss and you probably only need coverage for small damage. If you are going in and out of storage and have a gap with your homeowner’s, you will probably need full coverage from your storage provider or mover. Your coverage needs can only be determined after knowing your move scenario, your existing coverage, and your personal risk tolerance. If you do need coverage, then we offer a number of affordable insurance options.
If any moving company offers you insurance coverage plans without first assessing your need, then we offer this simple advice. RUN!
We Are Proud To Be Your Trusted Consultant
We take great pride, pleasure, and professional reward in our clients coming to us for advice on non-moving related vendors and craftsmen. Those moving out look to us to identify Landscapers, Handymen, Painters, Cleaners, and a host of others. Those moving in often look for the same services as well as Interior Designers, Flooring, Kitchen Cabinets/Counter Tops, and others professionals. These queries simply say that we've earned your trust, and that means everything to us.So we refer you to our list of recommended vendors. These are professionals that we know and trust to offer you both quality and value service offerings. As always please feel free to call and we'll be happy to personally discuss your requirements with you.
Hold Off On Disposing Your Moving Boxes and Paper
So you know for sure that you unpacked that item but for the life of you it is nowhere to be found. Accidental disposal of household goods during the unpacking process happens. In fact, it happens all too often. It’s really no big deal if the missing item is an inexpensive and easily replaced store-bought item, but that treasured photo or trinket is another story altogether.When unpacking, replace the packing paper in boxes labeled for the same room. Break down each room’s boxes that are not used to store the used packing paper. In the event you are forced to search for a missing items, at least you will have a targeted search. And for the same reason, don’t be quick to permanently dispose of your moving boxes and paper. It may take a day or two to even realize something is missing. You’ll be out of luck if your boxes have already been disposed of.
By the way…..Reader feedback confirms that you all appreciate the tips we cover in this blog. But we invite you to surf our website to gain full exposure to hundreds of tips and lessons learned gained from over ten years and over 12,000 total Boston moves.
Moving Pool Tables and Pianos
Those that know us and are website know that we are all about serving you whether you need full pack-out or simple delivery services. We filmed multiple “Packing and Moving Instructional Videos” for you as just one of many service offerings to make your move as smooth and affordable as possible. But when it comes to Pool Tables and Pianos…..we suggest that you leave the packing to us.Pool Tables require full dis-assembly with felt removal prior to moving. With our full network of specialty service providers, we can arrange for both dis-assembly and assembly in your new home nationwide. Pianos are often valuable “heirloom” pieces which require not only a strong back but also a lot of know how. Often times craning can be required for your piano and here too we can help. We also offer climate controlled storage for both pianos and pool tables if it is needed. We strongly recommend that you have these items professionally handled. With that said, if you still plan to go it alone, give us a call and we’ll be happy to assist and advise in any way possible.
Packing Tips for Children and Pets
No ... this is not a blog to address how to “pack” children and pets. But if only, right? Of course we jest. But the fact is, in a relatively short period of time, indeed you will be “packing up” this, your most precious cargo. There are things to consider in advance. Preparing your children: Very young children will not begin to grasp the reality of your household move until their toys are boxed up. It is then that confusion, fear, sadness, and anger set in. Your thinking that what will follow here is predictable advice from Captain Obvious……talk about the upcoming move, discuss the excitement of meeting new friends, etc, etc. Yes, this is fundamentally important. But the single most important thing you can do to prepare your child for the move is…….prepare yourself. Moving is stressful….no ifs, ands, or buts. If you fail to manage your own move-related stress and by doing so subject your children to YOUR anger, worry, and complaint, then how might your child interpret the move as anything other than something negative and something to fear? From the moment your decision to move is finalized, this critically important subject warrants personal reflection and the need to jointly discuss with your spouse. Preparing to move your pets: Although the preparatory list for pets is long, the best advice we can give is to schedule a visit with the best consultant available to you….your Veterinarian. Getting mandatory immunizations and necessary treatments done early is the most humane and loving thing you can do for your pet. Lessen travel stress on your pet by taking your pet out for short trips before the big move using the exact vehicle, carrier, and conditions that will be used on moving day.Moving From Low To High Altitude Can Be Dangerous
If you are moving to a high-altitude environment, altitude must be a pre-move consideration. Every person physically adjusts differently to altitude. Some will experience little to no discomfort other than possibly a slight instances of shortness of breath. Others can become quite ill. Internet resources such as FamilyDoctor.org are great educational resources that offer sound advice for limiting exposure to altitude sickness. Of course, your family doctor is always the best source.
You should be very careful when you personally transport the items that your professional moving team is prohibited from transporting for you. Things such as combustible gas, aerosols, gasoline, pesticides, paint, etc can pressurize thus presenting a potentially dangerous and/or damaging situation. Please take time to research how to safely transport and handle those dangerous household goods upon arrival at your new home. Also, if you have a plasma television a change in altitude can cause the gasses in it to become unstable.
Color Coordinate For A Smooth Move
Here’s a simple tip that will help both you and your moving team. Designate a color for each room in the new home, such as yellow for kitchen, orange for dining room, etc. Apply colored stickers on the box near the box number. Be sure to also label the boxes in case the sticker falls off. In your new home, post a matching sticker on the door to each room. The movers (Marathon) will know where to put everything when they arrive at the destination. It's also helpful to post a big sign on the wall in the room where you want boxes stacked, ("Boxes here please") to keep them out of furniture and traffic areas. This will help save time and $$ on your move.
