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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?
In the case of a binding estimate, everything will be planned out ahead of time. From the weight of your shipment to the services that you will receive both at and before reaching the destination. Keep in mind that any additional weight can violate the terms of your contract, and the same goes for any additional services that you might request.
What’s a Non-Binding Estimate?
This can get a little confusing simply because you will go through the exact same process as you would for a binding estimate. Your shipment cost will be estimated and you will still have to sign paperwork. The difference however is that additional charges can be added on. This will be done as soon as you reach your destination address. This doesn’t always happen, but it is certainly not impossible.
Calculating Shipment Cost
In the event you are moving to a new state, your charges will be based on two things: weight and mileage. On the paperwork, these will be listed as transportation charges, though there are many different charges that could appear on your paperwork. If you find yourself a bit confused about any of the charges, make sure to speak with your relocation consultant.

Some of the extra charges could include:

  • Packing
  • Crating
  • Valuation
  • Oversized Items
  • Extra Labor
What Payment Methods are Available?
One of our base requirements is that all of your charges are paid before your shipment is unloaded at the destination. Karvin Van Lines accepts different forms of payment including:

  • Cash
  • Credit Card
  • Check
  • Certified Check
  • Money Order
What is the Order for Service Document?
No matter what mover you go with, you will be required to prepare the Order for Service document before the shipment can be transported. This document provides written confirmation of the services that you have requested and the list of dates for the requested actions. It also lists the telephone number where the mover can contact you during those dates in the event that you are not present.

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
For each shipment transported, the mover needs to prepare a Bill of Lading, which is essentially a receipt for all of the goods that you plan to transport. For example if you are moving your lawn mower, it would be listed on the Bill of Lading. The Bill also identifies the mover, specifies the time of transportation, lists the terms and conditions and also notes the maximum amount of money to be paid to the moving company. It will also list the valuation of your shipment along with the amount that the mover will ultimately be liable for.
Inventory
Though it is not required by law, the driver will often inventory the shipment. The inventory is a detailed listing of your items as well as the condition of each item. The inventory is mainly for you so that you can keep track of the condition of every item. If the condition of said item changes (becomes damaged) then you may be reimbursed for the damage. If there is an inventory, make sure to check it over prior to embarking on your trip to ensure that everything is correct. Sometimes this can be a bit difficult, especially with PBO (packaged by owner) items. If the item has in fact been packaged by the owner, it will be up to the owner to decide how the package arrives, and the moving company has no control over the condition.

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?
If you are moving a dresser or even a desk, it is strongly recommended that you empty the drawers and pack all of your items properly into moving boxes or crates. There is no rule stating that you must do this, but it could prevent damage. In the end, you must decide what makes the most sense to you and what will serve best to protect your belongings.
How do I go about moving my plants?
A majority of moving companies will not deal with moving plants and it’s not simply an aversion to botanicals. Plants inside the moving trailer will most likely die. In addition to that, most states have regulations in regards to moving plants across the border. However, some states do not have any such regulations. That being said, it is a good idea for you to investigate your state’s laws before you begin to move any plants. This is something that you will have to handle.
How do I prepare appliances for the big move?
Toasters, washers, dryers, and refrigerators are all examples of appliances that you might be dealing with for your move. All of these must be disconnected and emptied before they can be moved. If you are planning to move a washer, then it must have a stabilizer installed. Speak with your estimator for additional details.
Will you protect my upholstered furniture?
We use a procedure known as stretch-wrap to protect your furniture. This is a clear plastic wrap that is placed around your furniture to keep it from becoming torn or otherwise damaged.

Moving FAQs #3: The Big Move

What steps should I take to prepare my home?
When you are getting ready to move, your mover will likely ask you to select one or more days for which your goods will be loaded into the truck. The number of days that you choose will commonly be referred to as the ‘load spread’. This timeframe depends on the size of the shipment, as well as the time of year in which the shipment is being loaded onto the truck. Try to remember to remain flexible, especially if you are working on this move during the busy season. Allow for extra days on your load so that you will have a better chance of getting a truck and driver to get you loaded and ready to embark on your adventure.

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!

How can I keep track of my shipment?
You can call one of our representatives at any time and they will update you with the exact route as well as the location of your driver. With our company, you will never be left in the dark!
How can I keep track of delivery?
Twenty-four hours prior to your delivery, your driver will contact you. We will assign a customer service representative to your move, and they will be your primary contact throughout the move. Our drivers will do everything to ensure that your delivery is on time!