What should you know about the pick-up and delivery dates?

Relocation is a rather hectic undertake. Some of you might ponder the idea of opting for a DIY move. Luckily, we’re here to tell you not to waste your time, but rather pick up that phone and call a professional moving company. However, even if you hire the best movers in Hamilton Ontario, there are still things you need to familiarize yourself with. Things like pick-up and delivery dates of your furniture, for example. Well, the following few lines will be dedicated to explaining ins and outs of these intricacies.

How does one get pick-up and delivery dates?

Why, by asking for them, of course. When all is settled with your moving company, the mover ought to give you a date or spread of dates on your order for service and bill of lading. It is of the highest importance that you receive definite information regarding these dates. Failing to do so can and often does result in a delayed shipment. Furthermore, you must be open and upfront with your moving date. Just that date alone has many factors that affect it. Such are:

• the closing date for your home
• your travel time
• the date you want to receive possession of your new residence

Discuss these details with your moving company as soon as the early stages of your relocation. So, now that that’s clear, let’s see how big is your delivery window. It’s important noting that it can vary depending on circumstances, most prominent ones being:

• the distance between your old and your new place (more miles result in a long time spread)
• the time of the year you chose for delivery (moving peak season is during the summer months, so it would be wise to expect a longer time spread)
• the weight of your shipment (more items mean shorter time spread)
• if they have other pickups or deliveries along the way

What are your responsibilities?

Agreeing to the pick-up and delivery dates that are presented to you means that you are obligated to accept your shipment within that time frame. If it so happens that you are are not available, find someone you can trust to be there instead of you.

When it comes to the pick-up

1. pay special attention to the bill of lading, and not just the inventory sheet. On it, you should find information regarding the mover held accountable for the transport of your goods. Look for his full name, mover’s address, telephone number, and “MC” number.
2. you to be able to accept pick-up from the first date to the last one on your pick-up spread of dates.
3. make sure to be present and oversee the loading of your belongings.
4. take a good look at the mover’s description of your belongings on the inventory. It should contain damages that might have occurred during the transport. If you, however, do not agree with his description, make sure to have the items’ conditions listed on both his and your copy of the inventory sheet.
5. double check that all of your boxes, furniture and other goods that you intend on shipping are listed on the inventory sheet.
6. a copy of the bill of lading, inventory sheet, order for service/estimate, household goods booklet, numbers to call, and other important documents should be available to you at all times. It would be unwise to pack them along with your shipment.

When it comes to delivery

1. as with pick-up, the company expects you to be able to accept delivery of your shipment from the first to the last date of the delivery spread dates, you previously agreed upon.
2. know that only the date on the order for service and bill of lading are binding. So, if your driver gives you any specific date, don’t hold him to his word, since it’s not reliable.
3. Payment is usually required to be made by certified check, cash or money order unless prior credit card arrangements were made and approved by the mover.
4. do not be surprised at the driver asking for payment prior to the truck’s unloading or even opening.
5. if you haven’t previously made credit card arrangements, certified check, cash or money order are required as a mean of payment.
6. if your belongings take up more than one truck, the mover decides whether he wants to collect charges for each portion of the shipment, or rather wait until all parts have been delivered.
7. as mentioned with the pick-up, the driver will present you with a list of the condition of your shipment. Whether you agree or disagree with the driver, make sure to put it on paper. More specifically, make your list of the condition of your shipment. Make sure to mark any differences both on your and the driver’s report.

What company would suit you best?

Company’s flexibility regarding pick-up and delivery dates can depend on the distance of your move. Long-distance movers can sometimes move faster when presented with more shipments to work with. So, if you are moving to Hamilton from British Columbia, a major van line might be a better choice. However, it’s worth noting that movers can also wait until they have a full load going to a certain region or along a route before they decide to send a truck there.

A smaller moving company can be a better choice for a short-distance move. Having a lesser amount to work around enhances their flexibility. This means that they are able to accommodate your preferences for certain dates more easily.

Whatever company you go for, make sure to express your personal need for a particular delivery date as soon as possible. This will allow the company to offer a number of different dates, making your choice easier. Have in mind that most moving companies will make every effort to meet your needs. Nonetheless, be properly informed about their possibilities before you make the final decision.