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  • Nilson Van

FAQ’S

Your Moving and Packing Questions Answered

Browse some of the questions we are asked most often about packing and preparing for a move. Have a question that’s not answered here? If you can’t find the answers you’re looking for on our site, contact us to speak to one of our experts directly.

Am I protected against loss and damage while my goods are on the move?

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.

Are you ISO certified?

Yes. Mayflower Transit is ISO 9001:2000 certified, adhering to the strict standards and commitment to quality associated with this certification.

Can I move frozen foods?

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.

Can I move jewelry and other valuables?

You can include items of extraordinary value, such as jewelry, money, photographs, and antiques, in your shipment. However, you must first notify your Mayflower agent of these items before packing or moving day. While we will ship these items for you, we strongly recommend you take any irreplaceable items with you, personally, on your move.

 

Items worth more than $100 per pound are considered articles of extraordinary value in the moving industry. Complete and sign the High-Value Inventory form and sign the “Extraordinary (Unusual) Value Article Declaration” box on the Bill of Lading to be assured that a claim involving these articles is not limited to minimal liability. If you aren’t including any articles of extraordinary value in your shipment, simply write “none” on the High-Value Inventory form and sign it.

Can I move my house plants?

Because plants may suffer from a lack of water, light, and probably temperature changes, Mayflower 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.

Can I move my pet?

Pets are not allowed on the moving van. Usually it’s best to take pets, such as birds, cats, and dogs, along with you in the family car. If this is an inconvenience, your moving agent will be happy to suggest other ways to move your pet safely.

Can I pack my china, glass, and crystal?

For special, fragile items, most people prefer to have professional movers pack these since they have years of experience. However, should you decide to pack these yourself, be sure to handle them with care, wrap each item individually, and pack them firmly within boxes using plenty of cushioning.

 

Pack the heaviest items on the bottom with lighter pieces on top. Fill the extra spaces with packing paper to prevent the pieces from moving while in transit.

 

If you need packing materials, you may purchase boxes, paper, and tape from our office for a small fee.

Can I pack my clothes in a chest or dresser drawers?

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.

Can I temporarily store my possessions?

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.

Can I track my employees’ shipments?

Yes, you have the ability to check to see exactly where any of your employees’ shipments are through our shipment tracking. We also provide your employee access to track their personal shipment using their last name and order number.

Can you assist in the development of a corporate relocation policy?

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.

Do I need an estimate?

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.

Do my appliances need special attention?

To ensure safe transportation, most large appliances, like washers, dryers, and refrigerators, require special servicing before your move. Any moving parts should be secured for shipment, including wash drums, motors, and icemakers. Special care should be given to gas appliances, which need to be serviced and disconnected prior to the move.

 

For an additional charge, we can handle ensuring the proper care has been given to appliances prior to being loaded on the moving truck. However, in most cases, the client takes on this responsibility them self.

Do you have a program for employees moving with a lump sum?

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 local moving representative.

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