When is the best time to move?
For the average moving company in NYC, the moving calendar’s busiest time is between May and September. With the surge in demand comes a premium in price. If you have some flexibility, it is an excellent idea to try to avoid moving during these hectic summer months.
Offering flexibility in your move dates — and giving your moving company windows of opportunity to pack, ship, drive, and unload — can also help keep costs down. If you have no choice but to move in the summer, provide as much notice as possible. Try to get quotes around six weeks from the actual move date, as this is a useful time frame for estimators to complete a visual survey and provide a price.
What does a relocation specialist do?
A relocation specialist from the moving company will visit your home to complete the visual survey of your possessions. A survey can also be completed over the phone or by emailing us a list of what you are moving. Once this is completed, they will calculate the weight, packing cost, and any other charge related to your move. They must clearly see what you are moving in order to provide an accurate estimate.
What's a binding moving estimate?
A binding estimate is a contract that specifies, in advance of your move, the precise cost of moving based on the services you have requested at the time of the estimate. This cost will include any packing, unpacking, or custom crating you require. If additional moving services are requested later, on moving day, or at the destination beyond the scope of the initial estimate, the total charge will increase. Compare this with the details in understanding your moving quote.
What is a non-binding moving estimate?
A non-binding estimate charges you according to the actual weight of your shipment, as well as the cost of any local or long-distance moving services that are performed. You will still go through the estimation process to determine what your shipment may roughly cost.
What is inventory?
The inventory is a list of literally everything that is to be moved — from boxes, to furniture, to paintings. It is detailed and descriptive, including how each item looks as they are loaded. This is why it is often better for boxes to be packed by the moving company, so there is no later confusion. All of your boxes are tagged for tracking purposes, whether you are moving residentially, cross-country, or into storage.
Should I empty my dressers when moving?
In general, it is okay to leave the clothing in your dressers when moving. Remove anything from the drawers that may roll around or shift during transport, and remove anything that is exceptionally heavy, as this can cause damage. If the dresser is larger than average, such as a triple dresser or one that is part of an armoire, it is best to at least partially empty it.
Am I protected against loss or damage?
You are, but how much protection you have and its cost to you depends upon the valuation coverage you selected initially. Be sure to ask your customer service agent about the insurance options available to you before your move. Though movers endeavor to move everything safely, it is usually a good idea to protect yourself in the rare event of an accident.
What should I do with my jewelry and other valuable items?
Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry, money, antiques, and other valuable collections can be included in your shipment, provided that you notify your local moving company of these items before packing and moving day. It is advised that you purchase additional coverage for these items or, at the very least, carry them with you on moving day.
What do I do with the packing materials after my move?
After unpacking, there can be a lot of cardboard boxes, wrapping materials, and tape. If you did your own packing and bought your own supplies, recycle what you can. Most moving companies also offer packing and unpacking services where they provide the materials and handle the process. With Liffey, we offer this service on request, as the last thing you want to deal with on moving day is leftover debris.
Can the movers arrange the furniture to my liking in my new home?
Yes. When we arrive with your items at your new home, the movers will work closely with you to make sure all furniture and boxes arrive in the correct rooms. We are happy to arrange and rearrange the furniture exactly as you would like it — to save you the heavy lifting.
How should I pay and what are the payment methods?
Payments can be made using cash, certified check, or money order. Other payment options, such as a credit card, can be arranged with your professional moving service provider prior to your move.
When should you contact a moving company?
You should contact a local moving company as soon as you have decided when you are going to move. The earlier you can get in touch with a local mover such as Liffey Van Lines, the sooner you can get your price locked in. This will also relieve some of the stress of moving, as you will know when your movers will arrive, how long they will take, and how much your move will be. Get in touch through the contact page or by calling (212) 410-3500.