Frequently Asked Questions
Moving can be difficult, but Karvin Van Lines’ frequently asked questions page can give you that little push you need to get organized and out the door. Here are some questions that you may have before moving:
Moving FAQs #1: The Paperwork
What’s a Binding Estimate?
What’s a Non-Binding Estimate?
Calculating Shipment Cost
Some of the extra charges could include:
- Packing
- Crating
- Valuation
- Oversized Items
- Extra Labor
What Payment Methods are Available?
- Cash
- Credit Card
- Check
- Certified Check
- Money Order
What is the Order for Service Document?
Other items on the Order for Service included charges that will be made for your move. This will include the estimated amount of non-binding charges, method of payment, maximum amount of payment at TOD, and any other relevant information. Both you and your mover will need to sign the order for service.
The Bill of Lading
Inventory
To better identify the condition of the inventory items, there are many different letter and number associations that the driver might use, some of which look like this:
- SC – Scratched
- C – Chipped
- Etc…
Sometimes damage does occur during loading, so that must be taken into account. When you are in the process of unloading your items at the final destination, make sure you examine each piece of furniture and compare the condition at arrival to the condition listed on the inventory. However, while you are unloading said items, it is possible that your furniture or items were already damaged before being loaded. This does not mean you were missing something, but rather that you got used to looking at the furniture in question in a certain light, and when you bring your furniture to a new home, you may notice damage that you hadn’t noticed before. Regardless, our drivers are very careful when handling your items and safeguarding against damages.
The inventory that you create when you start to move is a tool for you to use. Make sure that you use it to your advantage and ensure that all of your items arrive in the same condition that they left in. If they do not, always double check before jumping to conclusions! There are many unknowns when it comes to moving.
Moving FAQs # 2: Getting Packed
Do I need to empty my dresser drawers?
How do I go about moving my plants?
How do I prepare appliances for the big move?
Will you protect my upholstered furniture?
Moving FAQs #3: The Big Move
What steps should I take to prepare my home?
Twenty-four hours before your load day, you will be contacted by a customer representative who will let you know when the truck will be arriving. Any changes that need to take place must be effected before loading day. What constitutes a change exactly? A good example might be construction outside your home that stops the truck from reaching the front door. This would be a major change that stops the project temporarily. If such a change occurs, make sure you contact your movers as quickly as possible.
Finally, make sure that your home is properly prepared for the moving crew. Any items that might obstruct their path should be removed. This includes items on the porch or in the walkways. If you can, make sure you take the doors off their hinges, especially if you know you have furniture or appliances that will not fit through with the doors in place.
Though it is not required by any means, having water or Gatorade ready for your driver and crew to drink is a nice gesture and helps to keep everyone happy and hydrated while they’re hard at work!