Full service or self service moving. How to decide.
Moving across the country or across the street involves a lot of planning, packing and unpacking. Luckily moving companies have the option of a full service move or a self service move. But how do you decide on which option? Both have its pro’s and con’s.
A full service move is where the moving company takes care of all the details. They pack, unpack and drive all your stuff to your new place. Since these people are highly trained professionals, you can be sure that all your items are carefully packed, labeled and stacked accordingly. This gives the client a hassle free and stress-less move.
However convenient they may be, some people are hesitant about having strangers pack their belongings. This alternative is also very expensive. Plus there is always a possibility that these companies are fly-by night operations, so you will have to thoroughly research the moving company you plan to use.
A self service move is easier on the wallet and gives you more control of the move. You get to follow your own schedule and personally see to it that your belongings are where you want them to be. However, this is usually stress-full especially for first timers. The task will seem daunting and overwhelming, plus you will have to face the drive to your new location, and this could mean possible breakdowns or flat tires.
Moving companies have lots of options to offer their clients. So choose carefully.
Defining valuation and insurance, what’s really covered when you move?
Valuation and insurance can be very confusing terms for ordinary people. They are even more bothersome to people who want to move. These are usually the very last items on a very long list of details that need to be taken cared of. They are terms intended for the protection of the client.
Valuation simply means the value of the goods you are asking the moving company to ship for you. This is the “how much is your stuff worth to the movers incase something happens to it”? Most movers follow the standard practice of charging you with the minimum amount of valuation required by law which is around $.60 per pound. Most clients find this charge low since this won’t cover the cost of replacing valuable items like antiques or plasma TVs. But the client has the option of adding additional valuation charges based on the weight of the shipment in order to have full replacement coverage incase you need it. So for more expensive items that you need shipped it is better to get additional valuation on it.
Insurance is simply protection for the goods you are going to ship. Moving companies are required by law to assume liability of the goods. These liabilities vary so you need to be aware which areas the insurance covers. A good idea would to check with your local Better Business Bureau to find out how your Moving Company settled past claims.
Movers are required to advise clients with the information they need to make an informed choice but it is still the client’s responsibility to arm yourself with the necessary knowledge needed to decision.
What are Mover’s tariffs?
A mover’s tariff is a schedule of the breakdown of services or fees a moving company offers its clients. A moving company is required by law to file their tariff with the Federal Government’s Surface Transportation Board.
A mover’s tariff is required to contain three things. It should state clearly the services a moving company offers the public. It should define rules, regulations and other provisions related to the moving company. Next, it should contain a breakdown of fees or payment for each specific service it provides. And lastly, it should also have a clear format that allows the client to follow the rates and services the moving company offers.
For example, a tariff must have specific charges for services like full service moving or self-service moving. It should state how much each packaging material will cost the client. A tariff also contains expected delivery dates, the cost of packing and unpacking a carton, storage fees, insurance, liability and other necessary details
A good tip to those relocating would be to inspect the whole tariff of the moving company you choose. A good moving company will happily supply you and explain to you the necessary facts you need to know.
What every first time home buyer should know.
A first home is a big decision. You are entering into the world of “mortgage”, “HUD Homes”, “Federal House Counseling” and other confusing terms and terminologies.
But thanks to technology, all you need to know when buying a home for the first time is just a few clicks away. So before buying a new home, surf the net. There are many moving tips, advice and useful terms that you need to know, which will make your research easier.
For first time home buyers, a mortgage calculator is a very useful tool. It calculates not only your monthly mortgage payments; it can also give you a price range of homes you can afford. Another cost to consider would be home maintenance, since the home owner is always responsible for repairs and maintenance, unlike when renting a home. Always consider the entire cost of home ownership before buying a home.
Hire a reputable and trustworthy real estate agent. Find somebody you are comfortable with. These people can give you good advice about the market, have access to good homes and know the real estate up and downs of the area.
Shop for a loan. Talk to banks, lenders and lending institutions. A good bargain is always just a phone call or mouse click away, so find, compare and study as many programs as you can.
Remember that you are not only buying your home, but you are also putting up an investment, so research, study, inquire and explore every nook and cranny.
John U. Lloyd State Park, Florida
Florida is known for its beaches and Fort Lauderdale boasts of its seven-mile sparkling coastline beaches that attracts majority of its tourists every year.
The John U. Lloyd State Park may appear to be an ordinary park at the heart of Fort Lauderdale, but it is really not. It is more like a water park that boasts of its Whiskey Creek, a manatee sanctuary.
A visit at this state park is perfect for family and friends bonding. Recreational activities here in John U. Lloyd state park are endless. One can go fishing, surf casting, canoeing, and kayaking, as well as swimming, boating, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
If you are interested with South Florida’s underwater beauty then the Lloyd beach is one of the beaches with the most breathtaking and interesting shore drives in the area. The park is equipped with two boat ramps that provide easy access to the ocean through the Port Everglades Inlet.
It also has a mangrove-lined waterway is a scenic place to canoe, observe bird life, and take photographs.
Other amenities include seven picnic pavilions and the infamous Loggerhead Café where visitors can have a leisurely lunch or grab a quick snack. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, sailboats, pontoon boats, gazebos, barbecue grills, and volleyballs are available for rental.
Relocating to Fort Lauderdale, Florida be sure to check out John U. Lloyd State Park which is open from 8:00 am till sundown year round and it is located at 6503 N. Ocean Drive Dania, Florida 33004.
