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.
