NYC Moving Company

How Is Pricing Determined For A Move?

Time-Based Move

The pricing for a local move is calculated based on the duration taken by the movers to load and deliver your belongings. The hourly rate is determined by the number of movers and trucks designated for your move. Striking the right balance in crew size is crucial—having too many movers is inefficient, and having too few movers can lead to inefficiency. Our objective is to operate within standard business hours while ensuring the movers do not experience excessive fatigue.

Once we determine the appropriate crew size for your move, the timing commences upon the start of loading and concludes upon the completion of delivery. For multi-day moves, we aggregate the time over the working days. Additionally, a predetermined travel allowance is factored into account for the crew’s travel time from our location to your origin address and back at the end of the workday. 

Regarding packing a few cartons during a time-based move, the cost is based on the time taken to pack and the cost of materials used. However, for full packing, we do not charge based on time but instead utilize a per-box pricing structure. Typically, full packing is conducted the day prior to your move. Your Pristine Van Lines USA representative will collaborate with you closely to ensure the most efficient and cost-effective plan is implemented for a successful move and a positive experience overall.

Weight-Based

The cost for this particular type of move is calculated based on the precise weight of your furniture and boxes, as well as the distance to your new residence. Weight-based moving is the standard for moves exceeding 100 miles. The actual weight is ascertained by weighing the truck both before and after your belongings have been loaded onto it. The disparity between these two weights constitutes your shipping weight.

Your representative from Pristine Van Lines USA will evaluate and recommend the most cost-effective pricing method for your move. Rest assured, all furniture will be meticulously prepared for the move using quilted moving pads and paper/stretch wrapping on all upholstered furniture to ensure utmost care.

How Do I Choose Moving Companies for Free Estimates?

Choosing a moving company that offers free moving estimates requires careful consideration. Here are the steps to help you make the right choice:

• Determine Your Needs: The first step is to decide if you require a full-service moving company or just specific moving services.
• Research Options: Conduct thorough research on local, national, and long-distance moving companies. Seek recommendations from neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family members who may have had positive experiences with movers.
• Check with the Better Business Bureau: Verify the reputation and reliability of the moving companies you shortlist by checking their ratings and reviews with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). A good service history is a reliable indicator of a reputable mover.

Remember, exceptional service is the primary indicator of a reliable and proficient moving company.

What Do Binding & Non-Binding Estimates Entail?

Binding Estimates

A binding estimate is a formal agreement that outlines the exact moving cost determined in advance, considering the requested or necessary services during the estimation. Any additional moving services needed or requested at the origin or destination will lead to an increase in the overall cost.

Non-Binding Estimates

A non-binding estimate calculates your charges based on the actual weight of your shipment and the cost of any performed moving services. You will still undergo the estimation process to determine an approximate cost for your shipment.

To confirm the weight of your shipment, the driver will weigh their trailer before loading your items. After your shipment is loaded, the driver will reweigh the trailer. All other moving expenses will be computed at your initial location. If there are any additional charges incurred during the delivery, the driver will communicate the extra costs to you. Although such situations are rare, they can occur in specific circumstances.

What Takes Place When a Relocation Consultant Visits Your Home?

The relocation consultant will come to your residence to conduct a visual assessment of your belongings. Following this, they will determine the weight, packing expenses, and any additional charges associated with your move. The relocation consultant must have a clear view of all items you plan to move in order to provide an accurate estimate. Ensure your home is organized before the relocation consultant arrives, as concealed spaces like crawl spaces, attics, and cluttered closets can be misleading.

It’s normal for the relocation consultant to inspect all your cabinets and closets and even check under beds and on top of cabinets. This thorough examination is necessary to assess what requires packing and moving. If you’re aware of items that are not immediately visible, make sure to bring them to the attention of the relocation consultant. Similarly, if you intend to leave out certain items, inform the consultant accordingly.

A crucial tip to ensure a smooth loading day is to declutter and remove any items you don’t intend to move. Please do so to ensure adequate space for your shipment. While minor oversights won’t cause significant issues, removing larger items or entire bedroom sets is essential to avoid potential conflicts with the agreed-upon estimate and to ensure sufficient space for your belongings.

When is the Best Time to Move?

Moving companies experience their highest demand during the summer months, typically spanning from May 15th to September 15th. Towards the beginning and end of this period, the volume of shipments surges, which is a common trend for all professional relocation and moving service providers.

Choosing the ideal time for your move necessitates considering various factors. If your schedule permits, providing the moving company with a five-day window for loading your belongings can be highly advantageous. This flexibility empowers the team responsible for scheduling your drivers and moving crew, enhancing their ability to plan your move efficiently.

Additionally, if you can be flexible with your anticipated arrival timeframe, it’s worth noting that the moving truck might be transporting other shipments concurrently. Offering a flexible arrival window can significantly streamline your entire moving process.

How Do I Prepare My Home and Myself for Moving Day?

Your mover might request you to designate a range of consecutive days for the potential loading of your goods. The duration, known as a “load spread,” is contingent on your shipment’s size and the time of the year when it’s loaded. During the busy moving season, maintaining flexibility by allowing an additional three to five days on your load spread can increase the likelihood of securing a truck and driver for loading your shipment.

A customer service representative and/or the driver will reach out to you at least 24 hours before the load day to inform you of the estimated arrival time. Ensure you inform them of any changes that may affect the loading day. For instance, if the street in front of your home is under construction, hindering access for a large over-the-road truck, or if unexpected events have delayed your packing, notify your mover promptly. This way, they can dispatch professional packers to complete the job.

Prepare your home for the crew by removing any items that could obstruct the movement of your goods out of the home from the porch and walkways. If you know certain items won’t fit through, consider taking doors off the hinges. Additionally, remove small throw rugs from high-traffic areas to avoid any tripping or slipping hazards for the crew or driver.

Offering refreshments like water, Gatorade, or other soft drinks, especially on a hot day, is a thoughtful gesture appreciated by the driver and crew, despite them being prepared. The driver will take precautions to protect your home during the loading process by using runners, door jamb protectors, and railing protectors if applicable, minimizing potential knocks.

Do I Have Protection Against Loss or Damage During Transit?

Yes, your level of protection and its cost depends on the valuation coverage you have chosen. Understanding what is being provided to you is crucial, although this can be one of the most confusing aspects of moving.

The valuation coverage you select determines the basis for adjusting any claim and the carrier’s maximum liability. The carrier’s liability for loss or damage is in line with their tariffs, federal laws, and regulations, which have specific limitations and exclusions. It’s important to note that valuation is not coverage; rather, it signifies the moving company’s liability. Check with your homeowners’ coverage provider to determine if you have moving coverage, as you might already be covered.