Frequently asked questions | Links Moving

Are Your Moving Companies Registered with The Government?

Yes, all Links offices are properly registered and licensed with the appropriate local, state and national legal entities.

Once I've Hired You, What Am I Responsible For?

First, make sure you’re there for both the estimate, the packing of your belongings (if you’re hired the movers to pack) and on the day of the move when they’re loading the truck. This is the time to speak out if you notice anything you don’t agree with or that was not in your contract. Take full responsibility for any high-valued items such as jewelry, antiques and crystal. Make sure each is appropriately packed and marked. Check the items as they’re packed and loaded. You will be asked to sign an inventory sheet, so make sure you are aware of everything being moved. Only sign the inventory sheet when you’re sure everything has been loaded on the truck. It’s also your responsibility to make sure that you have not packed anything that is not allowed to be moved.

Do I Really Need An Estimate?

Yes. An estimate will allow the mover to see exactly what you’ll be moving, if there are any additional costs and how much room will be needed on the truck. Also, it will provide you with an idea of what you’ll be paying (or an exact amount, depending on the type of estimate), so there won’t be any surprises when it comes to being charged.

Arrange an appointment with one of our experienced relocation consultants now, by clicking here.

What Information Must The Moving Company Provide?

At Links Moving, we provide you with all the documentation required:

Before the Moving Day:

    • 1. A copy of the written estimate (binding or nonbinding)

 

    • 2. A copy of the U.S. DOT publication, “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”

 

    • 3. A copy of the order for service once it has been signed and dated by you and the mover

 

           4. Contact information for complaints

On the Moving Day:

    • 1. A copy of the Bill of Lading/Freight Bill upon pick-up

 

          2. A copy of the completed Bill of Lading/Freight Bill upon delivery
How Do I Know That The Estimate Is Reasonable?

One way to determine if you’ve been misquoted by the mover or not is to obtain at least five separate estimates. If you’re choosing reliable moving companies, than the prices should not be too far off each other. If you find one very low quote and the rest high, then you should question the low quote. Ask the company why their price is so much cheaper, and do some more background research.

How Do I Make A Complaint When I Receive Poor Service?

Proper communication is essential when trying to file a complaint for poor service. Talking with us directly may be the easiest way to resolve any issues that occurred during the moving process. Our Customer Service Department is always there to receive comments as well as our senior management, whose details and contact details can be found in this webpage in case you deem necessary to contact them.

Are My Goods Insured ? How Much Of It?

Insurance is an essential element of any international move and we strongly advise that you adequately insure your shipment. Insurance is an additional cost and so you should budget for this also. There is a minimum premium, but above that, the final premium is determined by you based on which value you declare on your belongings. There are 2 ways to value your shipment:

    • 1. Lump sum. This is the easiest option to choose as it means that you do not need to complete a valued inventory. A rateable value of USD 2,750 per cbm is applied to the shipment with items with a value above USD 1,500 noted separately.

 

           2. Valued inventory. You would need to detail, quantify and value all the effects you are moving. This value requires to          be the replacement cost to re-buy this item at your new destination location
How Do You Determine What My Move Will Cost?

At Links Moving, we estimates your move costs by figuring the size of your possessions. We have a volume estimator with a Table of Measurements, a copy of which should be provided to you when you get your estimate. Estimate the items you will need moved. When you’re done, your estimated move weight will be generated. We will then use that to determine what you might pay.

Am I Protected Against Loss Or Damage While My Goods Are In Transit?

Yes, but how much protection you have and its cost to you depend upon the valuation coverage you selected as mentioned above. The valuation option you choose determines the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and the maximum liability of the carrier. The liability of a carrier for loss or damage is based upon the carrier’s tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations that have certain limitations and exclusions. It is important to understand that valuation is not coverage. It is the liability of the moving company.

Can I Move Jewelry And Other Valuables?

Yes. Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry, money, antiques and stamp collections can be included in your shipment, provided that you notify your local moving representative of these items before packing and moving day. It is strongly recommended that you carry irreplaceable and expensive articles with you or make other arrangements for their transport.

When Is The Best Time To Move?

The busiest times for moving companies are during the summer months. At the end of these months, the volume of shipments is extremely heavy. This is the case for all professional moving companies. Take all the factors into consideration when deciding on the best time for you to move. If you have some flexibility in your schedule, provide the moving company with a five day window for loading your shipment. This will allow the individuals who schedule the drivers and crew members greater flexibility when scheduling your move. If possible, be flexible with your destination timeframe as well. Keep in mind that you most likely are not the only shipment on the truck. If you stay flexible, it should make a difference.

When Should I Begin Contacting Moving Companies For Estimates?

The earlier the better. Especially if you plan to move during the summer months. It is recommended to give four to six weeks notice to ensure we have enough time to meet your delivery requirements. If your pack or delivery date are very specific due to factor such as a lease expiration, you should let us know in advance to ensure availability. This timeframe can be shortened from September to April when we are off peak season.

What Is A Binding Estimate?

A binding estimate is a contract that specifies, in advance, the precise cost for move based on the services requested or deemed necessary at the time of the estimate. If additional services are requested or required at either origin or destination, the total cost will increase. A binding estimate covers only the goods and services listed on the estimate and accompanying inventory. If you add items or additional services are required or requested, the mover may void his original binding price proposal by requiring you to sign an addendum to the original contract. Please read what you are signing very carefully.

What Is A Non-Binding Estimate?

Non-binding estimates are not guaranteed. Final costs are based on the actual weight of the shipment and actual services provided at the time of the move. You will still go though the estimating process to determine what your shipment may cost.

How Is The Cost Of My Shipment Calculated?

If you are moving to a new state, the charges are based on the weight of your shipment and mileage. These are referred to as the transportation charges. There are a variety of different charges that could appear on your estimate, so be sure to ask your relocation consultant to explain each item charge for you. Some of the additional charges that may appear include packing, crating, valuation or coverage, bulky article charge for oversized items and extra labor.

What Is A Bill Of Lading?

The bill of lading is the receipt for your goods and the contract with your mover for their transportation. Every mover is required to prepare a bill of lading for every shipment transported. The driver who loads your shipment must give you a copy of the bill of lading. It is your responsibility to read and understand the information on the bill of lading before you sign it. The bill of lading identifies the mover and specifies when the transportation is to be performed. It also specifies the terms and conditions for payment of the total charges and the maximum amount required to be paid at the time of delivery if you are moving under a non-binding estimate.

How Do I Prepare My Home And Myself For Move Day?

Your mover may ask you to select from one to several consecutive days during which your goods will be loaded. The amount of days in what is referred to as a load spread depends upon the size of your shipment and the time of the year when your shipment is loaded. Remember to try to remain flexible during the busy season by allowing for extra days on your load spread to have a better chance of securing a truck and driver to load your shipment. Make sure your home is ready for the crew. Move anything off the porch and walkways that may obstruct movement of your goods out of the home. Take doors of the hinges if you know certain items will not fit through. Remove all small throw rugs from traffic areas that could cause the driver or crew to trip or slip.

Check our moving checklist for a listed guide of things to prepare from months time to the moving day.

How Will I Know Where My Shipment Is Once It Leaves My Home?

Links Moving will allow you to trace the whereabouts of your shipment and driver over the internet. Please be certain to ask your relocation consultant for details.

How Will I Know When My Shipment Is Going To Be Delivered?

Your driver will contact you 24 hours prior to delivery. Links Moving will assign a customer service representative as your primary contact and they will be able to provide you with an update as to the date your goods will arrive. Be certain to provide the driver with all your contact information. The phone number at the new home is only good if there is a person their to take the call. If you can be reached at work, a hotel or temporary residence or by email let the driver know. If you will be impossible to reach, make arrangements with a friend or family member to serve as the liaison between you and the driver and provide the driver with that contact information.

How Do I File And Receive My Settlement On My Claim?

Claims are always unpleasant – no one wants to have to deal with the problem but damage does occur and claims are a result. The best advice is to understand the claims settlement procedure prior to moving. It is important that you understand your coverage and how to proceed through the claims process. You may download your claim form from our Doc Center. 

How Much Do I Tip The Movers?

Tipping is optional and should be reserved for movers who do their job right. Our movers always appreciate when they get a little something extra for a job well-done, but it is ultimately the customer’s decision. Our crew usually don’t expect a tip but is appreciated when given. More than anything, it’s a sign that you recognized their effort and thought it worthy.

Providing cold drinks, coffee or whatever is suitable to the weather and time of day is always appreciated.

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