Full packing, partial packing and owner-packed goods
With full packing, ask whether the survey includes closets, garages and outdoor items. With partial packing, identify the exact rooms or items you want handled and label what you will pack yourself. If a mirror, artwork or instrument needs a crate, ask who supplies it, when it must be ready and what the quote includes. Confirm how the provider records owner-packed boxes and what its terms say about their contents and any later claim.
Ask about materials, pricing and restrictions
Have the provider explain whether cartons, paper, protective wrap, labor and crates are priced together or separately. Ask whether unused materials are charged and when packing must be complete. Identify any batteries, fuels, chemicals or other items subject to the carrier’s rules. Confirm what the carrier accepts and how any accepted items must be prepared. See what to ask for a ferry or barge move.
Prepare for loading and delivery
Photograph fragile or valuable items and note existing wear. Label boxes by their destination rooms and keep a separate inventory when the shipment has multiple handoffs. Keep your documents, medication and essentials available for personal travel. At the new address, reserve a place for boxes you want opened first.
Unpacking can mean emptying cartons, placing contents on a surface, arranging selected rooms or removing debris. Tell the company what you expect and ask whether furniture reassembly is a separate service. Decide who will inspect fragile pieces and when the crew will remove packing material.
Frequently asked questions
Can movers pack only my kitchen or fragile items?
Ask for a partial packing estimate. List the cabinets, fragile pieces and any other items you want covered. Confirm who brings materials and whether the crew can complete packing before pickup.
Are boxes and packing materials included?
Check the estimate. Materials may be included, billed by type or added based on actual use. Ask the provider to price cartons and custom crates separately if you want to compare proposals accurately.
Should I pack differently for a barge or container shipment?
Ask the provider what the handling and storage conditions will be and what packing and securement it requires. Confirm who is responsible for blocking, bracing and moisture protection. Tell the company about sensitive items before loading.
Can movers unpack boxes I packed myself?
Ask whether the company offers that service and how it records the condition of owner-packed items. Specify which boxes you want opened and whether debris removal and room setup are part of the job.
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