- What is the best time of year to move?
Summer months are the most popular time for moves, meaning there will be a higher
volume of demand for vans, equipment and staff between June and September. End of
the month and end-of-the year holidays are also busy. If you have some flexibility
with your schedule, booking your move during a non-peak time when more vans and
personnel are available will help ensure we can meet your preferred delivery schedule.
We will, however, work to meet whatever schedule is most convenient to you.
Factors to consider when planning your moving date:
•
Do you need to move immediately, or do you have some flexibility with dates?
•
Will you be moving children during the school term?
•
Will your family need to be separated during the move?
return to top
- How long will my move take?
Distance, weather conditions, time of year, shipment size, loading time, and the
direction your shipment will be traveling are all factors to consider when determining
the length of your move.
Due to the size of household shipments, two or more households are often loaded
onto the same van, with each shipment carefully partitioned from the others. Once
the van is loaded, pickup and delivery dates are scheduled according to both the
weight of the shipment, and the origins and destinations of each shipment, using
Mayflower’s computer-assisted dispatching system.
return to top
- How early should I contact moving companies for estimates and scheduling?
The more advance notice you can give, the more likely we will be able to accommodate
your preferred moving dates. We suggest four to six weeks notice, if possible, particularly
at peak moving times.
Van assignments are made days prior to the move. We will ask you to supply alternate
pickup and delivery dates for our standard service and do our best to accommodate
your preferred schedule or the closest alternative. You will be notified in advance
with your loading date and estimated date of arrival.
We can provide a more precise schedule if you have a critical need for certain pickup
or delivery dates, such as a property closing. There will be an additional charge
for this service, and your Scobey agent can work with you to determine what works
best for your situation, budget, and schedule.
return to top
- How does the moving company determine the estimate?
Your estimate will begin with a visual survey or inventory of your belongings, which
will allow your Scobey representative to determine the amount of space your goods
will occupy. To ensure a more accurate estimate, be sure your agent includes all
items to be moved, even those that are out of sight, such as items stored in basements,
garages, or crawlspaces. Following the survey, your Scobey representative will provide
a written estimate/order for service. This complimentary estimate is meant only
as a guideline.
Your estimate will also depend on if the move is local or across state lines:
|
Interstate Shipments:
Charges are determined by the actual weight of your shipment, the distance it travels,
and the services that you authorize or which become necessary to handle your shipment.
|
Local Shipments:
Charges are generally calculated by the hour, with a pre-determined minimum number
of hours required. [These shipments are handled by the local moving company, not
the interstate carrier.]
|
return to top
- Why should I go with a “registered” moving company?
While there are many moving companies from which to choose, both Scobey and Mayflower
have long histories and track records of delivering quality services. Mayflower
holds a certificate of authority by the federal government to move household goods
among any of the 50 states. Since September 27, 1988, Mayflower has maintained a
certificate of authority with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) as a motor
carrier.
Under Texas state law, anyone providing moving services in Texas must be registered
with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). Scobey’s registration number
is TxDMV No.5902557C, which is verifiable by contacting TxDMV at 1-800-368-4869.
return to top
- What is a “binding” estimate?
A binding estimate calculates, in advance, the precise cost of your move, based
on your load and the services your move requires. The total cost may increase if
additional services are added during the loading or unloading process —such as packing
services, or requiring a shuttle to and from a location where a full-size van is
unable to fit.
A binding estimate is valid for the specified time period, which is typically 30
to 60 days depending on seasonality, capacity, and your destination. Your Scobey
representative can discuss binding estimates with you as you plan your move.
return to top
A tariff is the list of rules and provisions that all motor carriers must obey when
transporting household goods. A list of published tariffs, including all available
services and charges, is available to the public upon request.
return to top
- How will you calculate the actual cost of my move?
Your overall cost will be based on:
• Transportation costs (see paragraph below)
• Charges for any additional
services—such as packing and unpacking—that you wish for us to perform.
• Additional charges for
Full-Value Coverage or Depreciated Coverage (see
"How can I be sure my goods are protected while in transit?”)
Unless you’ve received a binding estimate, actual transportation costs will be determined
once your shipment is loaded on the van. Transportation charges are based on the
actual weight of your shipment and the distance they will travel, plus any additional
services you may request or which become necessary once your goods are loaded.
[These charges are based on
"tariff" rate schedules.]
return to top
- When and how do I need to pay for my move?
All charges must be paid prior to the unloading of your shipment at its destination,
in accordance with tariff provisions. Discuss with your agent if you wish to request
later billing; all requests must be made in advance of the move.
Scobey Moving & Storage accepts the following payment methods:
• Cash, traveler's check,
money order, or cashier's check.
•
American Express® Card, DiscoverSM Card, Visa®, or MasterCard®, with advance approval
required prior to loading.
return to top
- What if my actual moving cost ends up higher than my estimate?
If your moving costs exceed the amount of your non-binding estimate, you will be
required to pay no more than 110% of the estimate at the time of delivery. If the
costs exceed the estimate by over 10%, you will have 30 days after the delivery
to pay the remaining balance over the 110%.
If your belongings are being delivered to storage, you will be charged all transportation
charges at the time of delivery to the warehouse. Your storage charges will then
be assessed based on the rates established by our tariff.
return to top
- How can I be sure my goods are protected while in transit?
Scobey Moving & Storage does not offer insurance, but we do offer two levels of
protection through our “valuation” program: Released Rate Liability and Full-Value
Coverage.
Released Rate Liability – (Basic Coverage)
This is our basic liability level and is provided at no charge. At this level, the
maximum liability for loss or damage to any article in the shipment is $1.25 multiplied
by the weight of the article.
Full-Value Coverage This protection plan ensures that we will, in the case
of items becoming destroyed or damaged in the move, either (a) repair the item to
the same condition as it was when received by Scobey Moving & Storage, or cover
the cost of repair; or (b) replace the item with one of similar kind and quality
or compensate you for the cost of the item. [Mayflower to determine settlement method.]
An additional charge applies for this option.
The deductible options are as follows:
|
•
|
Option A -- Full-value protection with no deductible
|
|
•
|
Option B -- Full-value protection with a $250 deductible
|
|
•
|
Option C -- Full-value protection with a $500 deductible
|
Scobey Moving & Storage’s total liability for loss or damage will be the amount
you declare as the value of your shipment. The minimum declared total must be at
least equal to the weight of your shipment multiplied by $6.00.
The valuation option you select determines how your claim will be adjusted and establishes
the maximum liability of Scobey Moving & Storage, in accordance with the provisions
in our tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations. Certain limitations and
exclusions will apply.
Be sure to indicate the valuation program you have selected on your bill of lading
(see
“What is a bill of lading?”).
Your Scobey representative can discuss both valuation options with you in more detail
and help you decide which option is best for you.
Valuation is not insurance; it is simply a tariff-based level of motor carrier liability.
Scobey does not offer insurance, but you can consult an insurance company representative
if you wish to have your shipment covered.
return to top
- What are considered items of "extraordinary value"?
Items valued at more than $100 per pound are known as "articles of extraordinary
value" and must be listed on the “High-Value Inventory” form provided by your representative.
(An online copy is also available. [NEW LINK OR DELETE]) Items of extraordinary
value may include: jewelry, furs, art and coin collections, crystal, figurines,
antiques, Oriental rugs, precious stones or gems, china, and silverware.
Settlements involving articles of extraordinary value are limited to the value of
the article as indicated on the High-Value Inventory form, and can not exceed the
declared value of the shipment as determined by your valuation program. (See
“How can I be sure my goods are protected while in transit?”
If you have not indicated an article of extraordinary value on the form, Scobey
Moving & Storage accepts a maximum liability of $100 per pound per article. If you
are not shipping high value items, write the word “None” in the inventory list and
provide your signature.
Note: Shipments moved under the Released Rate Liability program are not covered
by the provisions applicable to articles of extraordinary value. When signing the
High-Value form, simply insert the phrase "Not Applicable.”
return to top
- How will you keep my belongings and furnishings clean?
We use clear plastic, stretch-wrap material to protect your upholstered furniture,
which is then carefully wrapped with furniture pads.
return to top
- How will you handle my major appliances?
Most electric or mechanical appliances—including refrigerators, dryers, and washers—need
to be specially serviced in order to ensure safe transport. You will be responsible
for having appliances serviced prior to loading, or you can request the moving company
to do it, for an additional charge. Discuss this with your move coordinator prior
to your move.
return to top
- Will you pack my glass, china, crystal, or other fragile items?
We recommend having fragile items packed by a professional moving company. Should
you choose to pack items yourself, we offer the following recommendations.
|
Basic principles of good packing:
|
|
1.
|
Wrap items individually. Use a soft material to wrap each item.
|
|
2.
|
Provide plenty of cushioning. Place a layer of soft material or crushed paper on
the bottom of the box, then pack heaviest items on the bottom and lighter items
on top.
|
|
3.
|
Make sure it’s a firm pack. Use crushed paper or bubble tape to fill in empty spaces.
Plates should be placed on the edge and glassware on rims for the the best protection.
|
|
4.
|
Label boxes and cartons. Write "Fragile" on boxes containing breakable items, and
list the contents on the outside. Seal the carton securely with packing tape.
|
Cartons, paper and tape may be purchased from Scobey at competitive prices.
Be sure to check out the series of
“How
to Pack” Videos on our
Resources
page. You may also request a copy of "The Do-It-Yourself Packing Guide" or visit
the Mayflower
Packing Tips page.
return to top
- How should I pack my clothes?
You can leave any lightweight clothing – sweaters, shirts, blouses, and lingerie
– in the drawers of your bureau or dresser. Note: Heavier items such as sheets,
linens, or books should not be left in drawers, as they can damage the furniture
during transit. Also be sure there are no valuables left in drawers or furniture.
For more information on how to pack clothing, check out the "How to Pack Your Bedroom"
video on our
Resources page.
return to top
- Are there any items that I can’t move?
Yes, there are some items that we can’t move, which we’ve described below.
|
•
|
Jewelry and Other Valuables
While we recommend that you carry items of extraordinary value such as jewelry,
money, photographs, antiques and stamp collections with you, we can include them
in your shipment, if necessary. Be sure to notify us of these items in advance.
See: “What are considered ‘items of extraordinary
value’?”
|
|
•
|
Pets
Pets may not travel in the moving van.
|
|
•
|
Houseplants
Due to lack of water and light in the van, as well as temperature changes, it is
not a good idea to ship houseplants. Scobey Moving & Storage cannot accept responsibility
for safe transport of plants, and we suggest transporting your houseplants in the
family car or shipping them by plane. Be advised, several states either prohibit
or regulate the transport of plants. Check your state’s regulations prior to planning
your move.
|
|
•
|
Frozen Foods
We suggest using a local frozen food locker plant if you need to ship frozen foods,
especially for a long-distance move. We can move frozen foods, but only under very
specific, limited conditions. Discuss this with your Scobey agent.
|
Click on the following link for a complete list of non-allowable items that cannot
be shipped and
Items Not to Pack.
return to top
- Can Scobey Moving & Storage store my belongings?
We offer temporary and long-term storage facilities for an additional charge, and
we offer climate-controlled storage at certain of our locations. Belongings will
be stored in local warehouses until you are ready for them. You have the option
of choosing either a temporary or long-term facility, and you will be responsible
for the storage charges, warehouse valuation coverage, and final delivery charges.
Discuss storage options with your Scobey representative for more details and cost
structures.
return to top
- What can I expect on the day of the move?
You will be asked to provide a window of dates for the loading day, which is referred
to as your “load spread.” Once your van assignment is made, an agent will contact
you within 24 hours of the load day to alert you to the arrival time. If any changes
have been made to your original order by this time, please notify your Scobey representative.
On loading day, you can help prepare your home for loading by moving items that
obstruct movement of goods, and clear heavy traffic areas so the movers can get
in and out carefully and efficiently. Our drivers will come prepared with runners
and other supplies designed to protect your walls and floors during the loading
process.
return to top
- What is a “Bill of Lading”?
A bill of lading, which will be prepared by your mover and provided to you by the
driver who loads your shipment, is basically the receipt for your goods and the
contract that you’ve agreed to for the move. It is your responsibility to review
this paperwork carefully, as it specifies the terms and conditions for the move
and the payment, and includes important protection liability details. If you have
any questions, please feel free to ask your Scobey representative.
return to top
- Can I track my belongings once they are in transit?
If you are moving interstate – between two states – you can track your shipment
online 24/7 at
Mayflower.com using your computer or web-enabled smartphone
or by using the “Track Your Shipment” feature on our
Resources page.
return to top
- How will I know when my belongings will be delivered?
A Scobey Personal Move Coordinator will be assigned to assist you every step of
the way throughout the move process. Your move coordinator will notify you regarding
the day and time of your delivery. If at any time during the transport period, you
have a question about the schedule, you can be confident that your Scobey move coordinator
will assist you. The highly personalized care and service of our personal move coordinators
is best exemplified by the fact that one of our team members is a two-time winner
of the Mayflower Heart of Quality service award.
return to top
- What do I do if I need to file a claim?
Occasionally, over the course of thousands of miles and despite everyone's best
efforts, an item can get lost or damaged. If that happens, you can conveniently
file a claim or check on the status of an existing claim by visiting our
Claims page, which can also be accessed directly from our
Resources page.
return to top