Cost of Moving

When comparing estimates, remember the cheapest company won't necessarily do the best job. If one firm's estimate is lower than the others, then find out why. Are the services and the mover's experience equivalent?

Ask to see a copy of the mover's ICC (Interstate Commerce Commission) Annual Performance Report. Interstate movers are required to provide information about past performance and complaint handling procedures. They are also required to provide you with a copy of an ICC publication about your moving rights and responsibilities.

To keep down the cost of your move, dispose of unnecessary or hard-to-move items before you move. Reconsider taking appliances, motor vehicles (boats, campers, motorcycles, etc.). If you have been thinking about getting a new refrigerator, now may be the time to sell your old one!

Appliances

Most refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other electrical or mechanical appliances require special servicing to assure a safe move. Any moving parts - such as motors, washer drums, icemakers, and the pick up arm on a record player should be secured for shipment. Gas appliances need to be serviced and disconnected by your local gas utility.

It's your responsibility to take care of these preparations yourself, to hire an appropriate technician, or request that Parks make the arrangements for you at an additional charge.

Packing

ARPIN MOVING provides both packing and unpacking services. Remember, if you decide to do your own packing, you automatically assume a major portion of the responsibility for the success of the move. All packing must be completed by the evening before moving day...Only the things you'll need that night and the next morning should be left for last-minute packing.

Things you will need:

·  Various sizes of sturdy cartons with lids (flaps) that can be completely closed

·  White paper, tissue paper, or newsprint (unprinted newspaper)

·  Old newspaper (ink can rub off, so be careful how you use newspaper when packing)

·  Packing tape

·  Scissors or a sharp knife

·  Felt tip marker for marking the boxes

·  Notebook and pencil for listing boxes as they are packed

·  Labels or stickers

Cartons, unprinted newsprint, stretch wrap, and tape can be purchased from ARPIN  MOVING at a nominal charge.

Pets

If you think moving is stressful, imagine how your pet feels! Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, or any other kind of pet, preplanning is extremely important. Pets can become nervous when faced with an unfamiliar situation. The better prepared you are, the more at ease your pet will be.

Pets cannot be carried on the moving van. Dogs, cats, and other pets can usually be transported in the family vehicle. If this isn't convenient, Parks will be glad to suggest alternate ways to ship your pet safely.

There are many state and local regulations when it comes to transporting your pet. You should contact your local or destination's government agency responsible for animal health and safety.

Things You Cannot Move

It is best to make other arrangements for the transfer of certain negotiable items or articles of extraordinary value. Of course, one option is to take them with you.

To guard against damage that can be caused by combustion, leakage, or explosion, dispose of these items:

Moving With Children

Prepare them in advance for the move. Give them time to adjust to the idea.

Answer all their questions. Explain the reasons for the move and address specific concerns your children have about the move.

Permit children to participate in the preparations for the move.

The most important factor that determines how well a child copes with a move is the parent's attitude. If Mom and Dad are excited about the move and treat it as a big adventure, then the children will be far more likely to accept the situation in a positive manner.

Last modified: 09/12/2008