Here are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions by people who are moving or planning to move with Ward North American. Click on each category below to view the full list of questions and answers within each moving step.
- Choosing a Mover – This FAQ looks at various questions when you are in the step of selecting a mover. Topics include: estimates, charges, rates, offers, payments, prices, etc.
- Preparing to Move – This category discusses pre-moving topics including: delivery options, possible charges, insurance alternatives, as well as cost control.
- Packing for a Move – This FAQ focuses on the most common questions about packing for a move, including: boxes, items, stuff, appliances, clothes, cleaning, etc.
- Moving Day – This FAQ deals with typical issues that can arise during moving day, including: protective material, pets, weather and tipping.
- International Moving – International moving is a complicated and ever changing topic. We’ll try to answer the most common questions here.
- After Moving – What happens after moving? This FAQ will try to address these and other related issues including: unpacking, potential tax relief, as well as damages.
Choosing a mover
Can I negotiate moving costs or get discounts?
Yes, it is possible to take advantage of special moving rates. Some interstate movers offer discounted rates to seniors and students. Be sure to check out if you are eligible for promotional rates or special holiday prices.
Can you provide references and recommendations from local customers in my area?
Check out what satisfied local customers have to say about your shortlisted movers. Consider checking online review forums and sites. You can find local customer reviews by checking the reviews on Google My Business or Google Maps. Read Ward North American reviews on Google.
Do I need an estimate?
Yes. Try to get estimates from at least 3-4 movers for a local move, and 4-6 estimates when making an interstate move. It is advisable to actually have representatives come over to your place to see the items that need moving.
Do movers charge extra for packaging supplies?
Customers may be charged for boxes, tapes, or any stationery movers make use of for your items.
How can I check if a mover is genuine?
Check 3 things – ProMover (AMSA) designation, DOT (Department of Transport) number and MC (Motor Carrier) license. Every reliable mover will be equipped with these three. But don’t be convinced until you check out the DOT on https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CompanySnapshot.aspx
How can I find a good, reliable mover?
Word of mouth is the way to go. Ask family and friends who have availed of moving services and then check them out yourself. Besides, there are many online forums and review sites where you can read about the experiences and recommendations of real users.
How can I make the payment for my move?
Ask your mover if they accept credit card or cash payment or even checks. It is fair to remember that customers most likely have to pay the truck driver before their goods are unloaded at the delivery location.
How do movers calculate the weight of items to be moved?
Movers load the truck with your items and then the vehicle is weight on an officially verified weighing machine. This gives the weight of your stuff.
How long has your company been around in the industry?
As an agent for North American Van Lines, Ward North American has over 40 years of experience in the moving industry. When choosing a moving company, ask the mover if they have just started out or are an established brand. Companies which have spent a long time in the trade usually have more exposure to different moving jobs and are more likely to provide satisfactory services.
How much do movers charge for their services?
2 factors decide the moving cost – weight and number of items, and distance traveled. Today, most movers offer free estimates based on these factors before you book your things with them. They may send a representative to your home to see your items. The actual cost can only be determined on the move day itself. Any insurance you opt for will be added to the total cost. Customers will also need to pay extra for additional services. This applies to interstate moves as well.
Is it better to get estimates over the phone or schedule a home visit?
Be very suspicious of movers who insist on estimates over the phone or email without even taking a look at the stuff. The Better Business Bureau urges customers to ensure movers come for an in-home estimate to avoid getting scammed.
Is it better to pay in cash or by card?
If expert opinion is to be followed, paying in cash is not a good idea since you miss out on a transcript. Your credit card bills and checks are proofs of payment and can be used in case of any payment dispute. Customers are however encouraged to pay cash tips to movers.
Should I take the lowest estimate?
Before accepting any offer, it is usual to compare rates from several movers. Since their prices vary by a standard 15 percent, you will get competitive estimates. This is because they know what it takes to move. Experts say that it is best to avoid service that offer markedly low prices.
What are the important questions to ask a moving business?
Customers may ask a few key things about the business – Have they been in operation for several years or just started out? Who would be in charge of your move – company recruits or contractual staff?
What are the most important things to remember for an in-home estimate?
Two things are absolutely essential – 1) an inventory list of all the items that need moving and 2) features of the delivery address. It is useful to show the estimator all your things around the house, in the basement and in the backyard. Another thing to inform the mover about is the condition of the final location – whether they have to move up stairs or whether the street is broad enough for a large truck and the like.
What cancellation policy do you follow for delayed or rescheduled moves?
It is best to ask your estimator about delays or rescheduling. If your move date changes, ask if they offer free cancellation or charge a fee beyond a certain date.
What do movers charge on an average?
Interstate moves typically cost more than in-state moves. As per the American Moving and Storage Association, the former runs to over $5000 while the latter sets you back by at least $1000. Talk to movers and get estimates from as many of them as possible. There will always be a mover who fits your budget and move requirement.
What does a binding estimate mean?
A binding estimate is the flat cost of moving as per your items, default services and mover charges. If you require special services, for example, packing, or additional small trucks, the total cost may increase. A binding estimate stays valid for 30 days.
What does a binding not-to-exceed estimate mean?
It is an estimate of your moving cost beyond which the mover cannot charge you. This is the cost limit on their service.
Will movers help me unpack at my new home?
It is best to ask the mover if they will assist you in unpacking your boxes. Often movers outsource this to subcontractors. If this is the case, it is a good idea to run a background check on the subcontractor company.
If you have only a few boxes, your items will be loaded onto a truck carrying similar smaller moves. In this case, your mover will give you a list of probable delivery dates instead of one. Be sure to be available on those days.
Preparing to move
What is the right time to book with a mover?
At least a month before your scheduled move. Some customers prefer calling movers 6 weeks ahead of the date to avoid last minute complications.
Can I claim homeowners insurance if my stuff is damaged in the move?
If you have insured any item against damages caused by fire or accidents, and the item does get damaged in transit, you can claim the cover. Experts say it is best to consult your insurance company for on the insurance terms for hassle-free claim settlement. Usually homeowners insurance covers damage caused in moving.
Can I make an estimate of the moving cost on my own?
You can always arrive at an approximation. Check out online sites. Many moving businesses offer free cost calculator tools. For detailed pricing reports, contact local movers and ask them for in-home estimations for interstate moves.
Can I save money if I pack myself?
Doing some or part of the packing yourself can cut down on costs
Do I need to make an advance payment to the mover?
You may be required to pay at least 20% of your moving cost as a deposit. Consider asking your mover if this is refundable in case the move gets rescheduled or even cancelled.
Do I really need to hire a mover?
Hiring professional movers reduces the chances you’ll get injured moving heavy and awkward items twice, once on the packing and once of the delivery end. Also, movers will have the right equipment to move your items. Hiring them also frees you up to finish all the last minute details of your move.
Do large items mean additional charges?
It differs from mover to mover. It is best to ask the mover during a face-to-face estimation. Make sure the mover clarifies the charges for big or heavy items; especially if those are things that you cherish and can’t leave behind.
Do movers deliver on an agreed-upon date or are there delays?
Usually interstate moves take more than a couple of days to finish. In such cases, your moving company will offer you a time frame of expected delivery. When you are finalizing terms, take a moment to see if the window is suitable for you. They must fulfill your moving needs.
Do movers offer storage facilities?
Most movers offer storage services either at their own facility or use a third party storage. They levy additional charges for storage and delivery. Ask them beforehand what the storage and deferred delivery charges are likely to be.
How can I keep packing within the budget?
Try to find cheap alternatives to packing paper. Clothes, sheets, old newspaper, plastic rolls, towels – use everything that fits.
How can I make my move cheaper?
If you are moving interstate, you will be charged by weight. Cut down on excesses and eliminate useless stuff. Lighter boxes attract lower charges.
How can I reduce wastage due to moving?
Ask your mover if they reuse or repurpose boxes for moving. Your local U-Haul centre can provide you with free used boxes to reduce wastage.
How long will it take to get my items delivered?
Your mover should be able to give you an approximate date and time of delivery. However, road conditions and other unforeseen factors may push back arrival. Stay in constant touch with your mover throughout the transit.
How soon will movers finish loading the truck?
It depends on the number of movers, the quantity of boxes and the area of the house. On an average, 3 movers will take almost the whole day to clean out a 2000 sq ft house. If more movers work together, you can expect roughly eight to ten hours.
Is it better to move on weekends or weekdays?
Odd days may make it easier to find more movers at lower costs. Wednesday, for example, is a better moving day than Saturday.
Is winter a good time to move?
If you are moving in winter, experts say that you keep indoor heat setting on low. Before the stuff arrives at your new home, it is a good idea to keep the HVAC system turned on. This way you can quickly move indoors and have a ready supply of warm water.
My new home is not ready. Will movers deliver my things to a temporary storage if I can arrange for it?
It varies. However, there is an increasing tendency of most movers to agree with the arrangement. This is quite beneficial since you can both access your stuff and pay less. Once your new destination is operational, you can connect with local movers to deliver to boxes to your new destination. Temporary moving storage is an attractive option – easy and affordable.
What do moving brokers do?
Moving brokers connect customers and moving companies. They may assist you in move estimation, find out the best mover for your needs and even get you a discount or flat rates. Brokers make the moving process easier. Finding and arranging a move on your own could be more expensive than when you do it through a broker. Just make sure your mover is properly licensed and that they have agreed to move for you.
What extra charges can I be billed for beside the moving cost?
It is a good idea to ask your estimator if they charge extra for fuel or parking. They might also have charges for going up and down the stairs at your residence or the delivery address.
What if my goods are going to storage, but I need a few items at destination for temporary housing?
Ward will gladly coordinate delivery to separate locations. It’s best to determine what items you want delivered to temporary housing before your shipment is packed and loaded. This will assure items are inventoried for delivery to the correct location.
What if my new house doesn’t have parking or the street is too narrow for the truck?
Inform your mover of the condition of the delivery location. Be specific about closed roads or restrictions, traffic and obstacles. Some movers do charge customers for every extra foot they cover to deliver your items.
What is the best time to notify an address change?
To avoid last-minute confusions, experts suggest notifying an address change at least a couple of weeks before the move date. Apart from family and friends, your doctor and dentist, your bank and insurance firm and schools need to be informed of this update.
What is the ideal moving date?
Assuming there is no rush, you may plan your move to coincide with school holidays. Summer is usually the peak season and the beginning and ending of the months see a high volume of moves. Winter and fall are the lean move seasons to consider. Additionally, movers are more easily available mid-month and the charges are lower.
What is the moving cost for local, across-the-town moves?
Local movers usually offer an hourly rate that covers labor, truck and packaging. However, many local movers will need to be booked for at least two or four hours for moving across the city.
What time is the best to move to keep moving costs down?
Summers see a steep rise in moves. Try to avoid June, July and August since companies struggle to fulfill orders and charges are high. A good time to move would be weekdays covering the middle of the month.
Where can I get help for smaller and shorter moves?
You may consider hiring additional help for a few hours. Online sites and apps like Taskrabbit and Dolly connect you with persons who can assist. Many of these businesses provide properly licensed and insured persons. The company pays for staff injuries or property damages.
Packing for a Move
Can I ask my mover to also pack my stuff?
Yes, movers generally offer packing services. You can discuss if the moving cost includes packing or whether they charge extra for it. They may do full or part packing for the customer, in which case they usually compensate for any damage to the items.
Can I move live plants?
Most movers going interstate do not move live plants. You will need to arrange plant transport on your own. However, shorter moves within the town usually allow for plant boxes.
Can I place household goods or boxes of personal effects inside of my car when it is transported?
To assure safe delivery and also for insurance purposes, cars can not be loaded with other items when transported by North American Van Lines. Your Customer Service Representative can offer solutions for safe transport of your boxes.
Do I need specialized movers for moving my piano?
It is highly recommended that you ask for trained movers for this purpose. Although the regular staff is usually experienced, specialized movers can minimize damage to the instrument.
Do movers provide clean and sanitized trucks?
Some professional movers routinely clean and sanitize their trucks. You should ask your moving company about the maintenance and upkeep of their trucks.
How can I pack my stuff easily?
Packing small items take longer. Hence experts suggest you pack them first. List out the things and organize your boxes. Another way to pack quickly is to box thing up by rooms. How would you like to unpack? Think along this line and get your stuff ready.
How can I safely pack fragile items like dishes?
According to experts, dishes should stand on their sides, not lie flat. You may put bubble wrap between two dishes to reduce breakage chances. Try to pack them tightly against other items so they don’t have room to move, bump or roll.
How do I move my appliances?
Clean your appliances before packing. Give away stored food items. Check if any appliance needs special safety wrapping. Your mover will assist you with additional services against a fee.
How do movers transport big furniture items like beds?
You can ask if your mover will dismantle bulky furniture part and later reassemble. Most movers will charge an additional fee. Entertainment consoles, bed frames as well as cabinets can be taken apart and put back together in your new home. Most movers will not, however, assemble stuff they did not dismantle.
How long does it realistically take to pack everything?
It is a good first step to start packing four to six weeks prior to the move date. Non essential items are the first to go inside boxes. It is strenuous job and sorting stuff takes a long time. Clear out space and use it to store packed boxes until the movers arrive.
How long will it take from the time my items are picked up until they are delivered?
Different factors such as weight, distance and time of the year will determine scheduling. North American has guidelines to assist you in this process.
How much weight can a small box hold?
These boxes are designed to hold heavy items. Experts say don’t worry about the weight of these boxes they will fill up before you are over weight
How to best pack and move liquids?
Boxes carrying liquids must be marked as such. Additionally they may carry tags like ‘this side up’ to keep them standing in transit. Mention it to your mover so they don’t accidentally lay it or pack it upside down. Make sure the liquid items do not fall in the prohibited category.
How to safely pack my cooking pots and pans?
Pots and pans don’t need to be packed individually unless they are glass or ceramic items. Cushion them between layers of packing material at the top and bottom to hold them in place.
I need to use a few items right until I move. How do I pack them?
You have to pack it last. However, to make it easier, stick a label on it that says what goes in. It is likely to be the first box to be opened in your new location and will contain essential items like home clothes, sheets, hygiene products and possibly ready-to-cook food packets.
Is there anything movers will not move?
It is illegal for movers to deliver a few items like inflammable material (gasoline) and toxic substances. Clean out these items before you move and dispose of them following safe disposal methods. Gardening tools like rakes, shovels and small tool boxes must be safely packed before moving.
Should I ask for professional assistance to move appliances?
If you mover does not offer appliance moving services, you may need professional help. Check our guide on how to prepare appliances for a move. Your gas stove, refrigerator or air conditioners need to be capped, corded and hooked safely. Movers may also charge extra if they provide these services.
Should I number the boxes that will move?
Making an inventory of all moving items saves you trouble later. You can use a simple numbering system and use a marker to write it on the boxes, e.g.: 1/25, 2/25, 3/25 etc. You can quickly see if anything is missing.
Should I photograph my items before packing them?
It’s a good idea. Not only will it help you check items as they are delivered, but also help you arrange things faster. Take photos of your rooms, your walls, the patio or the backyard, the kitchen and even how electronic items should look when installed.
Should I transport my appliances at all?
Expert opinion in divided. Some say that prospective buyers appreciate fully functioning appliances and this may make your property more coveted. Others state that appliances may suffer damages rendering them useless in your new home. Besides, they may not even fit your new kitchen or storage spaces.
What do I do with the stuff I don’t want to move?
Take out your inventory list and begin crossing out stuff you no longer need. Give away stuff and return borrowed items. If you still have piles of useless trash, consider recycling. Visit earth911.com for a list of recycling points in your locality.
What is the best tape for securing move boxes?
Packing tapes are different from regular tapes. They are made to hold move boxes and seal them against spillage. Large dispensers make it easy for you to wrap them around large boxes. Some packing tapes come with color codes and labels to make it quicker for you to sort boxes.
What is the best way to get ready for the move?
Discard, clean out, take stock and reject. Moving is the ideal excuse to lose those extra stuff- excess clothing, paper, broken china, rusty tools, stuff you no longer need and stuff that lies forgotten.
What is the best way to pack clothes for moving?
Clothes go best in suitcases. Wardrobe drawers too can serve as perfect clothes carrier when they are shrink-wrapped. This way clothes stay neatly packed and ready to wear.
What is the best way to pack lampshades?
Lampshades go in their own boxes and sit at the head of the pile. According to professional movers, labeling the boxes usually tell movers not to put anything on top of them.
What is the best way to tag boxes?
The two oldest and easiest ways to tag your boxes are by color and number. Prepare your own color code and assign them to your items. For instance, the bedroom could be mint, the living room yellow, or the bedroom blue. Display the code in each room so movers can place the items correctly. Labeling by numbers is another way to keep track of your things. Tally the codes once the goods have been delivered to find out if anything is missing.
What is the best way to tape my boxes?
Box openings should be taped tightly. Consider wounding up the tape around the box to secure it. Mark glass items, mirrors or photo frame boxes with a unique symbol.
What is the ideal way to pack my things?
Prioritize your needs. According to move experts, put in things you will immediately use upon arriving at the destination. Items of personal use such as toothbrushes, sheets, towels, soaps, and slippers are best packed in a single, uniquely tagged box so you can open it without making a mess.
What items should I not pack with movers?
Pets and live plants, ornaments, medicines, firearms- it is best to handle the packing and moving of these items by yourself. This minimizes damage to such personal and intimate things. Experts state that many movers do not transport them.
What types of boxes do I need for the packing?
You will need boxes of various sizes. Experts say it is better to put heavier stuff in smaller boxes so that it is compact and easily stored in trucks. Bigger boxes are more suitable for lighter stuff like clothes or sheets. Sometimes these are used as shockproof layers around bulky or expensive stuff.
Where do I get moving boxes for free?
Craigslist, bookshops, departmental stores, and liquor shops may provide you with sturdy and free moving boxes. Consider checking out with U-Haul centers for free carton swap.
Will movers also transfer my light motor vehicle (car or motorcycle)?
Ask your mover if they move vehicles themselves or get a subcontractor to help them. Alternatively, you can directly hire a vehicle mover specifically for this.
Will movers help move my car?
Yes, movers do ship cars. However, if you have a very large vehicle or if it is no longer in operation, you may need to shell out more. Cars will usually be delivered on trailers. For covered trailers customers pay extra.
Moving Day
Do I offer refreshment to my movers?
That’s your discretion. You may buy them hotdogs or wraps or pizzas. Simpler things like a bottle of water or electrolyte-laced energy drinks are also useful.
How do movers protect walls, floors and fixtures while moving?
Most movers will cover the floor with paper, padding or some protective material. This will guard your flooring. However, ask your mover what their standard operating procedure says about protecting walls, electrical fixtures, shelves etc.
How should I get my pet ready on the move day?
Movers won’t allow pets to be transported. According to move experts, it is best to let your pet travel with you. While you are still packing or getting the boxes loaded there are 3 things that you can do – leave your pet at a boarding centre; ask family or friends to take them in for the day or let them play around. However, owners must see to it that the pet doesn’t get injured, scared or has a chance to escape.
How will my things be protected during my relocation?
Ward North American uses state of the art equipment and protective materials to secure the safe movement of all household goods. Our trained personnel will assure that the proper furniture and residence protection will be used at all times.
Is it a good idea to move if there is snowstorm?
While it’s counterintuitive to set out when a snowstorm is raging, you can still move after it has subsided. Protect your floors with some kind of lining like cardboard or fiberboard as movers go in and out of the house. Your mover may assist you in clearing the path ahead with a shovel or salt. Offer coffee or warm drinks to help movers work in the cold.
Should I tape my boxes or leave them open for the movers?
Sometimes movers compulsorily verify the items they move. So it’s best to avoid sealing them in boxes before they have taken a look. Ask your mover.
What details should I save from the mover on the moving day?
Usually 3 things – a signed copy of the list of items to be moved, contact information for the length of the move and directions to the delivery address.
What happens if it rains on my move date?
A short rainy spell shouldn’t be a deterrent if your boxes are sufficiently covered and protected from moisture. However, it is too much of a risk with wooden, leather or metal furniture and electronic appliances. Your mover may suggest shrink wrap. Rains also disrupt traffic and make roads slippery. Reconsider your move date or time if there is a thunderstorm.
What is the average tipping charge for movers?
On an average, customers usually pay between $20 and $40 as tipping charges to each mover.
Will movers use the same truck for the entire trip or change it?
It is safe to assume that the truck that gets loaded with your items is the same one that delivers it, if it is an in-town move. It simply means movers do not offload items from one truck and load it onto another for shorter distances. If you are moving interstate, your goods may be shifted to another vehicle. This may damage or misplace items.
International Moving
Do I need to pay extra for international moves?
Moving costs are calculated on moving services opted for. Regular moving charges cover all transportation fees. Default services provided by the company are also included. For international move, customers will need to pay customs and allied duties for shipment clearance. For accurate details, get in touch with northAmerican International representatives. They can clarify the terms the quotations provided by the movers you have shortlisted.
Do international movers offer storage facilities?
Most international movers offer 2 types of storage – temporary (in-transit storage) and permanent (more than a few weeks). If you do not move into your new residence immediately upon arriving, you can ask your moving company to store your items at an additional cost. They may offer their own facility or connect you with local agents whose warehouse you can use to store your stuff. This is chargeable. As soon as you are ready to receive your goods, you release the payment and the local agent delivers your items. You might have to buy some kind of insurance for your things. Ask your moving company about extra payments to be made at all stages of shipping.
How far ahead of my scheduled departure should I contact international movers?
10 weeks is the standard. You should contact your overseas mover at least 7 weeks in advance to take care of all shipping related matters. Before your scheduled move date, it is useful to confirm travel documents, international shipment services, and inform your overseas moving agent of the impending cargo.
What are some of the things to remember for overseas move?
Contact your overseas mover as soon as your move gets finalized. Prepare for the move by sorting your stuff. This is the best time to discard or give away stuff you no longer need. Organize your belongings into categories like ‘for sale’, ‘for air transport’, ‘send by sea’, ‘send to family’ and so on. This will help you bypass last minute mistakes in packing. In another box, put in essential items that you would need immediately upon your arrival – fresh clothes, travel papers like passport, work permits, family documents, medication, school papers, jewelry and other valuable items.
What items are prohibited and should not be sent by international shipment?
The following items are not allowed on international shipments – inflammable material like gasoline, aerosols spray cans, matches, paint, cleaning solutions and gas canisters; construction material like cement, bricks, stones, rocks and soil; firearms; explosives and toxic substances; live plants. Customers must make sure that their items will not spill over, leak or damage other packages. Prohibited items may attract hefty penalties or may be rejected by moving companies.
What services are available for international moves?
Overseas moving costs depend on the following factors: price, move time, containerization method, route options, freight, port duties, and temporary accommodation expenses. Customers also pay additional shipping fees Experts advise that the shortest route is often the most cost-effective as it saves on time and labor. Customers often overlook expenses incurred on hotel stays as shipment get delayed. Some opt for the slowest move options due to the cheapest prices and end up waiting for essential items for weeks. So basically what you save in cost, you lose in time. Hence international move charges are differently estimated since a lot of factors have to be accounted for, unlike an interstate move. Get in touch with northAmerican International representatives to get a clear picture of what it all involves.
What should I ask my international transport representative?
Your international moving representative must be able to give you a clear picture of what all is involved in moving overseas. The list includes details of containers and methods of packing, unpacking, freight charges, waiting time for delivery, insurance, temporary shipment storage, and additional services applicable. Ask them about shipping options and how charges vary by weight. You may also want to know about the paperwork needed, the details about the moving company and the most effective ways to prepare for an international move.
After moving
Does my moving cost come with tax relief?
Your reasons for moving affect your taxes more than the cost of moving. If you go interstate for a job change or business, you may get substantial tax relief. For more accurate information and criteria of time and distance, you can check IRS Form 3903.
How do I unpack fast?
Pack things with the unpacking in mind. Use labels or numbers to line up boxes while unpacking. If you wear out, head to the ‘bedroom’ box – pillows, blankets and sheets- so you can hit the bed fast.
What if I can’t take possession of my things right away?
Ward North American offers nationwide short and long term storage.
What happens if my things are damaged in transit?
Most movers offer liability coverage for the goods they carry. It is paid by weight, not price or type of item. The terms are different for every business. On an average, the coverage stays between 30 and 60 cents a pound. Some movers offer value protection. It means movers are liable to compensate the value of an item lost or damaged in transport.
When the movers unpack my boxes, will they put everything away for me?
Unpacking consists of placing the carton contents on countertops and other flat surfaces in the home, and removing the empty boxes from your residence.
