Move Preparation
Working closely with your E.E. Ward Moving Representative is your first defense in keeping your move costs under control. Unexpected or inflated moving costs often result from a breakdown in communication between the customer and the moving company. Rushing through the initial "choosing a mover" process can be detrimental to the success of a move.
It is extremely important that you take the time up front to talk to your sales representative about all of your moving needs and expectations so that both parties will be fully aware of the specific circumstances they will find on moving day.
For example, if you have remodeled your house since moving in, some of the furniture that went in originally may not come out the same way, and may require additional labor or equipment. Similarly, if you have assembled furniture within your home since moving in, special considerations will need to be made to move it out.
There are many other situations that can also lead to extra charges such as truck access issues due to low hanging branches or wires, steep inclines or sharp turns, delicate cement or driveway pavers, weather, parking limitations, etc. Many times there are steps that can be taken, if done ahead of the actual move date, that can save you time and money on your move.
Some other ways to keep the cost of your relocation in check are:
Take Inventory!
The first way to save money on your move is to move less stuff!! Local moves are done on an hourly basis, so time is money. Did you know that it takes a crew about the same time to take that box of old magazines that you haven't looked through in years to the truck as it takes to move the sofa you sit on every day? Take a look around - are there just a few things you could live without?
Likewise, intrastate, interstate and international moves are charged based on weight and/or space - so lightening the load by either having a garage sale or donating to your favorite charity is the way to go!
Picking The Right Date
Most moving companies have a sliding scale of prices that reflect supply and demand on a particular day. Generally, the summer months are the busiest. Saturdays and the beginning and end of each month are busy year-round. Monday through Thursday, in the middle weeks of the month, tend to be less busy and therefore less expensive. Flexibility with your move date or an overlap between when you need to be out of your old home and are able to get into your new home can both allow you to get the best value.
Preparation
Doing your own packing can save you money. Your E.E. Ward representative can offer you plenty of literature outlining proper packing techniques, as well as sell you the paper, tape and sturdy boxes for all of your packing needs.
In addition, disassembling and disconnecting items prior to the crews arrival can also save you money.
Keep In Contact!
Did you know that if your driver can not locate you in order to confirm and coordinate your actual delivery date and time that your items may end up being put in storage until you can be located, costing you additional money?
Always keep in contact with your relocation coordinator to ensure prompt and efficient service.
Need more advice? Contact your E.E. Ward relocation representative today!