Have a question about your upcoming move? You’re not alone. Below are some of the questions we are asked most often. If you still have questions or concerns, feel free to contact us, and one of our experienced representatives will gladly help you.
Yes, we can help you build a policy that is custom-suited to your company’s unique business needs using our years of knowledge and experience gained from servicing corporate clients. Having a relocation policy is key for ensuring a smooth transition for everyone in your company.
Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry, money, photographs, antiques and stamp collections can be included in your shipment, provided you notify us of these items before packing or moving day. However, we strongly recommend that you carry irreplaceable and expensive articles with you or make other arrangements for their transport.
In the moving industry, items worth more than $100 per pound are considered to be articles of extraordinary value. To be assured that a claim involving these articles is not limited to minimal liability, complete and sign the High-Value Inventory form and sign the “Extraordinary (Unusual) Value Article Declaration” box on the Bill of Lading. If no articles of extraordinary value are included in your shipment, simply write “none” on the High-Value Inventory form and sign it.
Most refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other electrical or mechanical appliances require special servicing to ensure safe transportation. Any moving parts, such as motors on major appliances, washer drums, and icemakers, should be securely fastened for shipment. Gas appliances need to be serviced and disconnected prior to your move.
It is the owner’s responsibility to see that appliances are serviced for shipment before they are loaded on the van. Upon request and for an additional charge, a moving company will perform this service, using either its own qualified personnel or an authorized service company.
You should only move your frozen foods under specific, limited conditions. Most times, we suggest making arrangements to ship frozen foods through local frozen food locker plants, especially for long distance moves. It may even be easier to just plan to use up the goods or donate them to someone before your move. If you do want to move frozen foods, be sure to discuss this with your moving agent.
Because plants may suffer from a lack of water, light, and probably temperature changes, we cannot take responsibility for transporting your plants. You may find it safer to take your plants with you in the car or ship them by plane.
Be sure to check the regulations of the state you’re moving to. Some states place restrictions on the entry of plants. Check to make sure yours will be admitted.
Pets cannot be carried on the moving van. Dogs, cats, birds and other small pets can usually be transported in the family car. If this isn’t convenient, w will be glad to suggest alternate ways to ship your pets safely.
Yes, to receive the most accurate cost quote, you will need to have an estimate. An accurate estimate cannot be calculated without a visual survey of the goods to be moved. There is no charge for the estimate. One of our agents will make a pre-move survey of your household goods to be transported in order to determine the approximate cost of your move and the amount of van space your goods will occupy. Your agent will then compute the approximate cost and give you a written Estimate/Order for Service.
Keep in mind that estimates (household goods surveys) are only guidelines. On interstate shipments, you must pay the total charges as determined by the actual weight of your shipment, the distance it travels, and the services that you authorize or which become necessary to handle your shipment.
Charges for local shipments are generally calculated on an hourly basis. There may be a minimum number of hours required.
Most people prefer to have their household possessions, especially fragile items, professionally packed by a moving company. However, if you decide to pack these items yourself, remember that the basic principles of good packing include wrapping the items individually, providing plenty of cushioning, and making sure of a firm pack.
Be sure to select a sturdy container with a lid. Place a two- or three-inch layer of crushed paper on the bottom of the carton as a cushion. Wrap each item individually with a soft material to provide a safe, protective, “padded nest.” Pack the heaviest items on the bottom and the lighter ones next, filling in empty spaces with crushed paper. Place plates on edge and glassware on rims for maximum protection. Mark the carton “Fragile,” and list the contents on the outside. Be sure to seal the carton with tape.
You can store your possessions temporarily in our local warehouse if you are delayed in being able to move into your new residence. You will be responsible for storage charges, warehouse valuation coverage, and final delivery charges from the warehouse if you choose to store your items.
The cost and type of valuation coverage depends on the type of storage you choose. We offer both Storage In Transit for short-term storage and long-term storage options.
Light clothes, such as shirts, blouses, and lingerie, can be left in drawers for transit. However, you should not pack heavy items, such as books and linens, so as not to damage the furniture. You should also remove any valuable items or items that may spill or leak from drawers before moving.
Yes, but the Mayflower “valuation” program you choose determines how much protection you have and the cost to you. You can choose between Full-Value Coverage or Released Rate Liability (60 cents per pound per article).
The valuation option you choose determines the maximum liability by Mayflower and the basis for which any claim will be adjusted. The liability of Mayflower for loss or damage is based upon Mayflower’s tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations, and has certain limitations and exclusions.
Valuation is not insurance; it is simply a tariff-based level of motor carrier liability. Because Mayflower does not offer insurance, you should consult your insurance company representative about available insurance coverages if you wish to apply for any.
Yes. Mayflower Transit is ISO 9001:2000 certified, adhering to the strict standards and commitment to quality associated with this certification.
Yes, you can. With our shipment tracking, you have the ability to check-in on any of your employees’ shipments to see exactly where they are at any time. Additionally, we provide your employee access with their last name and order number so he or she can also track their personal shipment.
Yes. We have a variety of solutions that can be customized in to a menu of services for your employees moving with a lump sum. Some of these options include: extending the terms of your transportation agreement to employees moving with a lump sum, assistance marketing an existing home or finding a new one through the CityPointe® program, destination information to help educate your employee about his or her new city, container solution options, etc. We encourage you to discuss the available options with your moving representative.
As one of the oldest, single-family owned moving and storage companies in the state, we understand how much moving can impact your life. Finding qualified movers you can trust with your most precious possessions and investments is time-consuming. Putting your life on hold to coordinate travel and packing for the move itself is frustrating — but it doesn’t have to be like this.
For over 85 years, Nilson Van and Storage has helped thousands of clients smoothly transition into their new destination, wherever that may be. We’d love to do the same for you. Request your free quote today and start setting your move up for success.
Whether your move is big or small, our skilled movers are dedicated to helping you every step of the way, no matter where life takes you.
