Boston Movers can store Your Household Goods between Home Sales

The purchase of a new home can be an exciting time. Unfortunately, it can also be a frustrating time; especially if the move in date does not coincide with the date that you need to move out of your old home or rental. Most people are worried about where they are going to stay while waiting to move into their new home and they totally forget that they also have plenty of household goods that need to be stored somewhere.

There are plenty of Massachusetts home sales every single month and the Boston moving companies have to make sure that they keep their customers happy. Therefore, they are going to do as much as they can to be an all-in-one stop; providing a safe storage facility is just one of the many services that they could provide. Even so, sometimes they just do not have the ability to store your household goods. When this happens, you may need to find a suitable home for your goods while you wait to move into your new home.

Now, if you have enlisted the service from one of the Boston moving companies, you can ask them what they might recommend. Some of the Boston movers actually have their own storage facilities in the event that you cannot move from one house to another immediately. Many may even have a discount or special offer on storage services. Even if they do not have their own storage facilities; they probably know where you can store your household goods during your transition period.

Moving Insurance for Your Household Goods

Be aware that you are technically involved in three events and most likely three contractual agreements; the move to storage, the storage itself and the move from storage. Movers, moving companies who provide storage and self-storage facilities usually do not provide insurance. What they normally allow is for you to increase their level of liability. This is done by choosing a specific level of declared valuation. Research your options thoroughly, and you will be able to choose the correct level of protection for your specific circumstance.

Boston Storage Companies and Facilities

A storage facility is generally the best approach when it comes to storing your household goods between home sales. Most facilities offer heated and cooled storage which is the best option, especially if you have furniture that could sweat, electronics that are heat sensitive or anything else that needs to be kept at a safe “room” temperature. Again, it is best to speak with several Boston moving companies to see if any offer storage facilities as part of their customer service. If not, make sure you have made arrangements ahead of your moving date so that you can inform the Boston movers where to deliver your goods.

Family or Friends

For some, all of their funds have been depleted after putting up a down payment and covering all the closing costs of the new home. If you find yourself in this situation, it is a good idea to start talking to your family and/or friends and see if they would be willing to hold your items for you. Most of the time, you will find out that you have plenty of resources available to you. Once you have secured a place to store your goods, make sure to inform the Boston movers so that they can deliver them for you. Otherwise, you may have to deal with the move without the help of anyone.

It is extremely important that you make sure you have somewhere to stay while you wait to move into your new home, but you should not forget all of your household goods either. Therefore, take the time to ask several Boston moving companies if they have on-site storage facilities or if they have any good recommendations. Doing this before you move can save you a lot of stress and headaches, especially as the moving out date approaches … don’t wait too long.

Are your household goods worth more than 60 cents per pound?

You are relocating soon. You have qualified several movers. You have received your estimates and chosen your professional mover. Congratulations, your due diligence should result in a stress free move.

There is at least one more important factor you need to evaluate and be prepared to make a final decision on. That factor is known as "Declaration of Value", "Declared Valuation" or "Limitation of Liability" in the moving industry and more specifically on the mover's bill of lading. (The bill of lading is the contractual agreement that you enter into with the mover.)

The moving company you have qualified and ultimately chosen is most certainly insured. But insured means he carries workers compensation, automobile liabily, general liability and cargo insurance. (These are are mandatory minimum policies that your mover should have in place.) However, none of these insurances protect the items a/k/a your possesions that the mover actually packs or moves for you.

When moving with a professional moving company you will be required to place a dollar value on your possessions. Free and included with most movers' pricing is a value of only 60 cents per pound per article. This by itself is usually grossly inadequate. I would equate this extremely limited valuation with no insurance or self insurance. (Please note: Declared Valuation is technically NOT insurance, but rather a limitation of the moving company's liability.) Most movers will offer a variety of increased declared valuation options, such as, depreciated and full replacement valuation.

The following information derives from The Massachusetts Movers Association Consumer Affairs Committee and is specifically relevent to all persons moving within the state of Massachusetts who utilize the services of a professional moving company that are members in good standing of the Massachusetts Movers Association. (Although this information is representative for a general understanding throughout the moving industry, please consult with your moving company directly to understand any differences that may affect your individual relocation situation.)

WHAT ARE MY CHOICES?

OPTION A: 60 CENTS PER POUND PER ARTICLE

This is minimum coverage, and you pay no extra. If your goods are damaged or lost, the Mover's maximum liability to you under this option is 60 cents per pound per article. If your goods are damaged or lost, you will be entitled to recover the lesser of the decrease in value of the item lost or destroyed, or 60 cents multiplied by the weight of the lost or damaged article.

In any event, no matter what happens, if your goods are damaged or lost, the Mover's maximum liability to you under this option is 60 cents per pound per article. Example: 10 pound chair x 60 cents = $6.00. You would be allowed a maximum of $6.00 for that particular chair. To choose this option, you must, in your own handwriting, write the letter "A" in the box on the bill of lading, and sign and date below.

OPTION B:  DECLARED LUMP SUM VALUE

Under this option, you declare a lump sum value for your entire shipment, subject to a minimum of $1.25 per pound times the weight of your shipment (you may declare more, but not less). For example, if your shipment weighs 10,000 pounds, the lump sum value would be $12,500 (10,000 x 1.25). That amount will be the Mover's maximum liability to you. Ask the Mover about the charge for this coverage. If there is a claim, the Mover is not obligated to write out a check to you for the entire declared shipment value! Each damaged item will be repaired, replaced, or a cash settlement may be offered, according to its depreciated value, not to exceed the shipment's declared value (in this example the declared value is $12,500). The Mover will apply depreciation to any claim made under this option.

This is the option which will apply if you do not select any option. If your signature does not appear in the valuation section of the bill of lading, the Mover will automatically apply option "B," and the Mover will charge accordingly.

Example: 4,000 pound shipment @ $1.25 per pound = $5,000 of declared value.

Any damaged item will be reasonably repaired, replaced, or a cash settlement may be offered, at the option of the Mover. Remember, the Mover will charge for this option.

OPTION C:  FULL REPLACEMENT VALUE

Full "replacement" value protection is non-depreciated coverage. Not all Movers offer this option. This option provides for the repair or replacement of the item, whichever is less, to restore the piece to its condition immediately before the loss.

This option is based on a minimum declared value of $4.00 per pound (you may declare more but not less). The Mover will not apply depreciation under this option.

Example: 4,000 pound shipment @ $4.00 per pound = $16,000 of liability coverage.

Remember, ask the Mover about the charge for this option.

CERTIFICATE OF INSURANCE

Not all Movers offer this option. Your Mover can arrange for transit insurance coverage in the amount you specify. A Certificate of Insurance should be provided to you. You may be able to choose either depreciated or "full replacement" insurance; be sure to ask if there is a deductible. You may also want to check your own homeowner's policy to see if it provides coverage.

Not all Movers can give you a Certificate of Insurance. This is not Movers' liability, but an agreement between a licensed insurance company and you. There will be a charge for this coverage.

WHAT IF I DON'T CHOOSE ANYTHING?

If you don't make any notation on the bill of lading, the Mover's maximum liability to you under the tariff is $1.25 times the weight of the total shipment. Example: Your shipment weighs 10,000 pounds x $1.25 = $12,500 value. It works the same way as a declared value (see Option B). This is depreciated value, not replacement coverage. Unless the Movers' tariff provides otherwise, there will be a charge for this coverage.

WARNING:

The above information represents a summary of each option. It is not intended to address all of the issues or provisions of the movers' liability. Nor is an employee or sales representative authorized to make recommendations as to the type of coverage or the amount of coverage you may require. You should consult an appropriate insurance or other professional to assist you in this decision.

POINTS TO REMEMBER...

• Your Mover will do the best job possible and try to avoid any loss or damage. Accidents do happen, so remember:
• The "Bill of Lading" is your contract (receipt) with the Mover. Both parties should sign the "Bill of Lading" in the appropriate places and agree to its terms and conditions.
• In determining the value you declare, you should consult an appropriate insurance or other professional to assist you in this decision.
• The examples given in this brochure represent the minimum amount that must be declared; you can go higher but not lower.
• Be aware of the coverage option you chose at the time of the move and do not expect the Mover to change the coverage "after the fact." Your signature on the bill of lading and the option you select under Declaration of Value will determine your coverage.
• If your goods are going into storage at a licensed storage warehouse, different coverages and contract terms may apply.
• Be sure you have a copy of the bill of lading and (if applicable) inventory. Be sure any damage is noted on the bill of lading and (if applicable) inventory.
• At the time of delivery, you or your agent must make notations on the bill of lading (or inventory, if applicable) showing any exceptions regarding the condition of the goods.
• Keep the damaged article and packing material for inspection (it will help substantiate your claim). It may be possible to replace pieces (such as glassware or china).
• The burden of proof is on you, the customer, to show loss or damage to your property.
• All claims must be filed in writing within 15 days of the move. (Call your Mover's office if you need a claim form). Remember, the longer you wait to file your claim, the more difficulty you may have in recovering your losses.
• All of the movers' charges must be paid prior to the mover processing your claim.

BEFORE YOU CHOOSE:

Before you choose an option for loss and damage protection, give some serious thought to the value of your possessions. The time to consider coverage is before the move. Your selection of a valuation option on the bill of lading is confirmed by your signature.

Mover's liability for loss or damage varies depending on how you release the shipment to the Mover. Generally, your goods are not automatically covered for loss or damage during the move; you must declare on the Bill of Lading the type of protection you desire.

You should make sure that the Mover clearly explains the options that you have and the cost of each type of protection that the Mover makes available before the day of packing or moving.

Your coverage can be either "valuation" (which is like self-insurance by the Mover) or "insurance" (in which case you should receive from the Mover a Certificate of Insurance issued by an insurance company). Unless you choose full replacement insurance, your coverage will be for depreciated value.

Packing of fragile items. Any item that is packed by owner (P.B.O.) is generally not covered for damage unless the box is physically damaged.

Under Massachusetts Movers Association tariff, you may choose one of the options described in this brochure; the extent of coverage is based on the option you select.

PROVISIONS OF MASSACHUSETTS

LAW GOVERNING LIMITATION OF

LIABILITY OF MOVERS AND WAREHOUSEMAN

(M.G.L.C. 106, §7-309). Duty of Care; Contractual Limitation of Carrier's Liability.

A carrier who issues a bill of lading whether negotiable or non-negotiable must exercise the degree of care in relation to the goods which a reasonably careful man would exercise under like circumstances. This subsection does not repeal or change any law or rule of law which imposes liability upon a common carrier for damages not caused by its negligence.

Damages may be limited by a provision that the carrier's liability shall not exceed a value stated in the document if the carrier's rates are dependent upon value and the consignor by the carrier's tariff is afforded an opportunity to declare a higher value or a value as lawfully provided in the tariff, or where no tariff is filed he is otherwise advised of such opportunity; but no such limitation is effective with respect to the carrier's liability for conversion to its own use.

Reasonable provisions as to the time and manner of presenting claims and instituting actions based on the shipment may be included in a bill of lading or tariff.

(M.G.L.C. 106, §7-204). Duty of Care; Contractual Limitation or Warehouseman's Liability.

A warehouseman is liable for damages for loss of or injury to the goods caused by his failure to exercise such care in regard to them as a reasonably careful man would exercise under like circumstances but unless otherwise agreed he is not liable for damages which could not have been avoided by the exercise of such care.

Damages may be limited by a term in the warehouse receipt or storage agreement limiting the amount of liability in case of loss or damage, and setting forth a specific liability per article or item, or value per unit of weight, beyond which the warehouseman shall not be liable; provided, however, that such liability may on written request of the bailor at the time of signing such storage agreement or within a reasonable time after receipt of the warehouse receipt be increased on part or all of the goods thereunder, in which event increased rates may be charged based on such increased valuation, but that no such increase shall be permitted contrary to a lawful limitation of liability contained in the warehouseman's tariff, if any. No such limitation is effective with respect to the warehouseman's liability for conversion to his own use.

Reasonable provisions as to the time and manner of presenting claims and instituting actions based on the bailment may be included in the warehouse receipt or tariff.

I'm Moving! That's great, I think.

The time has come! For one reason or another, you need to relocate your home or office. Hopefully, this is great and exciting news for you. However……Often anxiety may have over taken you. But fear not, this blog will help you deal with the situation at hand and the many questions you probably have:

• Is it better to move yourself or hire a professional mover?
• How does one choose a moving company?
• How does one get the best estimate for their true relocation costs?

Let’s look @ each of these questions, individually.

Is it better to move yourself or hire a professional mover?

To me this is a NO BRAINER! Unless you are a college kid that picked your belongings out of the trash, under NO circumstance should you ever move yourself. First of all, try finding a friend who IS available to help you move. Guaranteed every one of your friends will have some commitment that they just can’t break, otherwise they would just love to help you. Secondly, financially it can be a disaster as well. By the time you pay for the rental truck, the mileage, the fuel, the insurance, the rental equipment, the pizza, the beer, etc. you probably spent as much as the professional moving company would have cost. But even if you did save a small amount of cash, you did so only after your wasted time, definite sore back (and muscles you never knew you had), possibly damaged homes and possessions, and maybe even a strained relationship or two. Think about it I am right, this is a NO BRAINER, hire a professional its truly worth the expense.

How does one choose a moving company?

Finding movers is easy. But choosing the right one requires a little more effort than just Googling “Movers” or calling the biggest ad in the phone book. The key and the most important thing to do is to QUALIFY the moving company.

The best way to find a professional mover is through a referral from a trusted friend or business colleague who has used the moving company recently and or has a long term relationship with the company. If a positive referral is not possible, (some of your friends and colleagues may have had only negative experiences, this will tell you who NOT to hire), then you must qualify the moving companies on your own.

Ask specific questions;

• How long has the company been in business? Look for companies that have been around for a substantial amount of time, 10+ years; longevity in business in a positive attribute.
• What is their physical address? Legitimate companies have at least one real address where they have an office, park their trucks, possibly have a storage warehouse and would be more than happy to allow you to visit.
• Do they own their own trucks? If not, eliminate them. Some quality companies do utilize rental trucks when extra busy or to handle overflow, but, NONE run exclusively with rental trucks.
• Are they licensed? They should be or disqualify them. Most states require movers to be licensed to work within the state and the federal government requires movers to be licensed to perform moves across state lines.
• Are they insured? If not, eliminate them. Any company you hire must be insured. They need worker’s compensation, automobile, general liability and cargo insurance in place at a bare minimum
• Can they provide references? Not canned ones from their friends, but real ones from recent customers who had relocation needs similar to yours.
• Are they members of any industry organizations? Most states will have moving organizations like The Massachusetts Moving Association, there are National Associations like The American Moving and Storage Association. Membership in these organizations is just one more positive attribute to factor in when qualifying your potential moving company.
• Are they members of any consumer advocate groups? Many professional moving companies are members of groups like the Better Business Bureau. This alone does not qualify the company but is yet another positive attribute and most likely an insight to the company.

Getting all the right answers to the above questions will allow you to be comfortable in knowing that the professional moving companies you are considering are truly qualified and eligible for your consideration.

How does one get the best estimate for their true relocation costs?

Over the phone and email estimates do serve a purpose. They allow you to see how a company calculates their charges and what a company’s rates are. But these are general estimates, usually based on industry averages for number of rooms, weight of shipment, etc. If you have qualified the mover, find their rates and cost calculations reasonable, then you can stop here if you want. You will NOT know what your final cost will be but you should still be happy with the services of a true professional company that you qualified.

For the MOST ACCURATE COST ESTIMATE, you should ask for an on-site COST ANALYSIS. Then follow these simple guidelines:

• Schedule your favorite three of the moving companies that you have already qualified.
• Do NOT schedule them at the same time and do NOT disclose the names of the other movers to the estimator.
  • You want the estimator to have his/her own ample time to answer your questions and evaluate your relocation needs AND to not have his estimate influenced by his/her competitor’s presence.
• Provide each estimator with the same exact description of your relocation needs and you will receive “apples to apples” estimates
• If you need to make changes, notify all 3 estimators of your changes AFTER the initial cost analysis.

What type of estimate do you want?

There are several options, and which is best varies by individual circumstance. After choosing the type of estimate you want, request the same type of estimate from all 3 estimators. Back to the “apples to apples” thing again.

The most common types of estimates are as follows:

• OPEN ENDED
  • Final cost is NOT KNOWN, cost is subject to fluctuate based on circumstance, such as actual time or actual weight. Most experienced estimators will be able to pin point your cost with their cost analysis, but leave it open ended when there are unknown variables, (information that you can not provide), involved
• NOT TO EXCEED
  • Final cost is NOT KNOWN, but there is a MAXIMUM COST set in writing. Cost can be lower than, but can not exceed, the written maximum cost provided.
• FLAT RATE
  • Final cost is a specific dollar amount that is known in advance and will not fluctuate. This type of estimate is also known as a GUARANTEED BINDING ESTIMATE.

Hopefully this blog will have reduced any anxieties you may have had concerning your relocation needs. I truly hope that your relocation is great and exciting news for you. Best of luck at your new home or office!