Frequently Asked Questions about moving from Texas:

1. When is the best time to move?
If there is a choice, most moving companies suggest you select a time other than summer, the end of the month or the end-of-year holidays. The heaviest demands are placed on vans, equipment and personnel during these periods however; we at My Interstate Mover believe you should move when it is most convenient for you. Factors involved in the decision may include:· Whether the move must be made immediately · Moving children during the school term · Separation of the family while the move is under way

2. Do I need an estimate?
We at My Interstate Mover will make a pre-move survey of your household goods to be transported. A pre-move estimate is needed to determine the approximate cost of a move and the amount of van space your goods will occupy (interstate move). Your estimator will compute the approximate cost and give you a written Estimate/Order for Service. Keep in mind that estimates are based on the inventory you provide the estimator. On interstate shipments, you must pay the total charges as determined by the actual weight or cubic feet of your shipment, 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 (3 hours).

3. What is a binding estimate?
A binding estimate or binding cost of service specifies in advance the precise cost of the 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 (such as a "shuttle" to or from a location to which a full-size van cannot operate directly or a "long carry" from the street to residence), the total cost will increase. Binding estimates are valid for the time period specified, up to 60 days. If you add items to be moved or require additional services, such as packing, between the time of the estimate and the time of your move, there will be additional charges. An addendum specifying these additional charges will be prepared for your signature. If you are interested in obtaining a binding estimate, please contact your moving consultant.

4. What is a "Tariff”?
This is the list of rules, regulations, available services and resulting charges used by all motor carriers, which provide interstate transportation of household goods. Each household goods motor carrier will include its various services and tariff rates.

5. What is a "License" to operate a moving company?
My Interstate Mover has authority by the federal government to arrange for household goods to be transported among any of the 48 states. My Interstate Mover is bonded and registered with The Better Business Bureau.

6. How does the moving process work?
For a step-by-step overview of your moving process, please click here.

7. What if the truck can't park up close to the house?
If we are not able to park the truck close to an entrance to your home at pick up or delivery, you may be charged for a "long carry". Often tree branches grow low over roadways not allowing for the height of a truck. Narrow streets and driveways can restrict accessibility to your home, making it necessary for the driver and helpers to carry your belongings a longer-than-normal distance. If the distance from your home to the truck is too great for the driver and helpers to carry your belongings, we may need to load your belongings on a smaller "shuttle" truck before placing them on the actual moving van. Use of a shuttle truck is also an additional charge.

8. Cost of moving: What are my moving charges based on?
For an interstate move, your charges are based on the weight of your shipment or the cubic feet, together with the additional charge for packing and packing materials. At the time of your estimate, your moving consultant will be happy to explain the itemized charges on your estimate, which would include any packing, crating, uncrating and transit protection. For a local move your moving charges are based on the hourly rate plus an additional charge for packing materials. For more information please contact your moving consultant. How can I obtain an estimate of moving costs? To receive an estimate, fill out the on-line form or simply contact one of our estimators via phone. What is the difference between a binding and non-binding estimate? A non-binding estimate requires you to pay based on the actual weight of your shipment and the additional services performed and the additional price for the packing materials use. There is no limit. A binding estimate is a price guaranteed not to exceed unless additional services are performed that are not specifically listed on your paper work. You must complete additional paperwork for any items to be added to your shipment or to have additional services provided. What payment options are available? We at My Interstate Mover require a deposit of 25% of the estimate by mail, preferably 7 days before your move date, 25% on the day of pick up and 50% on delivery by certified check, money order or cash. Please note that if paying with Visa or MasterCard the full amount will be charged on the day of pick up. Discuss these payment options with your moving consultant to select the one that works best for you. In the event that your employer is paying for the move, the employer may pre-arrange be billed via invoice. Whatever payment option best meets your needs, be sure that all the arrangements are made before your belongings are packed and loaded.

9. What if something is damaged while it is being moved (Transit Protection)?
Occasionally, in the event of a moving process some minor damage occurs. Review the insurance plan with your moving consultant to fully understand what valuation insurance is. A valuation of 60 cents per pound per article is provided at no charge, but we recommend that a higher valuation be declared to adequately cover your belongings in the event of damage. As an example, suppose your new china cabinet purchased for $1000.00, weighing 200 pounds, is damaged beyond repair. Minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound per article would entitle you to $120.00 maximum compensation. My Interstate Mover has an account with an insurance agency that specializes in the moving and storage industry, our account is based on a clean record for more than 2 years.

10. Can my possessions be stored temporarily?
Any state - to - state move is entitled up to 30 days of free storage. Beyond the 30 days the type of coverage and cost will depend upon whether the shipment is held in storage-in-transit (temporary) or in permanent (long-term) storage. Please contact us for more information.

11. Do my appliances need special attention?
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, icemakers and the pickup arm on a phonograph 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.

12. Can I pack anything in the drawers of my dresser or desk?
All loose items must be packed in boxes to prevent damage during the move. All items including Non-fragile, lightweight items such as clothing and linens must be packed in boxes. What should I do to prepare to move my waterbed? Waterbeds need to be drained completely. Fiber-filled waterbeds need to be professionally vacuum-drained in advance of your move date. Your estimator can refer you to a professional to perform these services. Should anything be done to my appliances to prepare them for the move? Appliances such as washers, dryers and refrigerators must be disconnected, and the washer must have a stabilizer installed.

13. Can I transport my car?
We do not transport vehicles. We highly recommend that you contact an auto transporter who has the proper licensing and insurances to transport vehicles.

14. Items We Cannot Move?
Can I move my frozen foods? Frozen foods can be moved, but only under specific, limited conditions. Be sure to discuss this matter with your moving consultant. Can I move jewelry and other valuables? Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry, money, photographs, antiques and stamp collections can be included in your shipment, please notify your estimator 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. Can I move my houseplants? My Interstate Mover cannot accept responsibility for safely moving your plants, because they may suffer from a lack of water and light as well as probable temperature changes while in the van. You may prefer to transport your houseplants in the family car or ship them by plane. Can I move my pet? Pets cannot be carried on the moving van. Dogs, cats, canaries and parakeets can usually be transported in the family car. If this isn't convenient, your moving consultant will be glad to suggest alternate ways to ship your pets safely.

15.When will my belongings be delivered?
Before your belongings are loaded on the truck, you and your estimator should have agreed on a delivery spread of 7-12 business days based on shipment size, distance to destination and time of year. You will receive notification of delivery by the dispatcher. You, or someone you have designated must be present to accept delivery and pay all charges. In the event that no one is available, your shipment could be placed in storage at an additional charge. Be sure that you give your estimator telephone numbers for you and your relatives and where you and they can be reached throughout the move.

16. Who can I call if I have questions while my belongings are being moved interstate?
Throughout your move, your primary contact is the estimator. Your estimator will give you the name and phone number for the designated dispatcher in charge of pick up and delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions about moving from Texas:

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