However, we believe that you should move
when it is most convenient for you. Factors involved in the decision
may include whether the move must be made immediately, transferring children
during the school term, or separation of the family while the move is underway.
If the move can be scheduled for a time
when vans and trained personnel are more readily available, we'll be better
able to meet your preferred delivery schedule.
FAQ:
How long does it take to move?
This depends on many factors, such as the
time of year, weather conditions, size of your shipment, time required
to load and unload, and the direction and distance your shipment is traveling.
Because the furnishings of the average
household will not fill a van, it is often necessary for two or more shipments
to be loaded on the same van. Each shipment is carefully sectioned
off from the others.
With the help of our computer assisted
dispatch system, pickup and delivery dates are scheduled according to the
origins and destinations of individuals shipments on the van, as well as
shipment weight.
FAQ:
When should I call a moving company?
The earlier the better. Although
the actual van assignment may not be made until a few days before your
move, it is wise to give your moving company from four to six weeks if
possible. The more lead time you can give, the more likely we will
be able to meet your delivery schedule.
All moving companies, for their usual type
of service, require alternate pickup and delivery dates. We'll do
our best, of course, to comply with the dates you prefer or the nearest
possible alternative. You will be notified in advance of the loading
date of your goods, and the estimated date of arrival.
If your pickup and delivery dates are critical
due to such factors as a lease expiration or a real estate closing, you
may choose an extra-cost service which will enable us to accommodate a
reasonable schedule. You should discuss your specific pickup and
delivery requirements with us, so we can advise you of the types and costs
of services available.
FAQ:
Is a moving company licensed?
An interstate moving company must be registered
with the U.S. Department of Transportation, the federal agency that regulates
movers. We hold such a registration and is subject to all of the
consumer and other regulations administered by the D.O.T.
We will conduct a pre-move survey of your
household goods to be transported. A pre-move survey is needed to
determine the approximate cost of a move and the amount of van space your
goods will occupy. We will compute the approximate cost, and
give you a written Estimate/Order for Service. An accurate estimate
cannot be given without a visual survey of the goods to be moved.
There is no charge for the estimate.
Keep in mind that estimates (household
goods surveys) are only guidelines. On interstate shipments, you
must pay the total charges as determined by the actually weight of your
shipment, the distance it travels, and the services which you authorize
or which become necessary to handle your shipment.
Charges for local shipments are generally
calculated on an hourly basis. There may be a minimum of number of
hours required.
FAQ:
What is a binding estimate?
A binding estimate, or binding cost of
services, specifies in advance the precise cost of the move based on the
services requested or deemed necessary at the time of the estimate.
If additional services are requested or required at either origin or destination
(such as a shuttle), the total cost will increase. Binding estimates
are valid for the time period specified, up to 60 days.
If you add items to be moved, or require
additional services, such as packing, between the time of the estimate
and the time of your move, there will be additional charges. An addendum
providing for these additional charges will be prepared for your signature.
FAQ:
How much will my move cost?
Unless you have been given a binding estimate,
the exact cost of your move cannot be determined until after your shipment
has been loaded on the van and weighed. If additional services are
requested, or become necessary after loading and weighing, additional charges
will be incurred. Basic transportation charges depend on the actual
weight of your goods, and the distance they will travel. The total
cost will include these transportation costs, any charges for Full-Value
Coverage or Depreciated Coverage, plus charges for any "accessorial" services
(such as packing and unpacking) performed by us at your request.
These charges are based on "Tariff" rate schedules.
This is the list of rules, regulations,
available services, terms and resulting charges used by all motor carriers
which provide interstate transportation of household goods. The tariffs
are published by each household goods motor carrier, and include its various
services. The tariffs are available for your inspection at our office,
or on request, we will furnish a copy of any tariff provision containing
our rates or charges governing the shipment. Such information is
also available for inspection at the offices of the Household Goods Carriers
Bureau Committee/American Movers Conference, 1611 Duke Street, Alexandria,
VA 22314.
FAQ:
How and when should I pay?
Tariff provisions require that all charges
be paid before your shipment is unloaded at destination (unless prior arrangements
have been made for later billing).
Payment for your shipment can be made by
one of the following methods:
Cash, Traveler's Check, Money Order or
Cashier's Check.
In addition, the American Express Card,
Discover Card, Visa or Master Card, can be used to pay for interstate moves
only, with advance approval required prior to loading (unless other billing
arrangements have been made). Personal checks are not accepted.
All payment forms apply to both binding and non-binding estimates.
If you have received a non-binding estimate
and your actual moving costs exceed the estimate, you will be required
to pay no more than 110% of the estimated cost at delivery. Should
your actual costs exceed than more the 10%, you will be given 30 days after
delivery over 110%.
Payment of estimated charges plus 10% does
not apply if goods are delivered into storage. If storage-in-transit
at destination is necessary, all transportation charges must be paid at
time of deliver of the shipment to the warehouse. You will then be
assessed storage charged based on the applicable set forth in our tariff.
FAQ:
Are my goods protected against loss or damage while in transit?
Yes, but how much protection you have and
its cost to you depend upon the "valuation" program you choose (Full-Value
Coverage or Depreciated Coverage.) Please call us to learn more about
these programs.
The valuation option you choose determines
the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and our maximum liability.
Our liability for loss or damage is based upon our tariffs, as well as
federal laws and regulations, and has certain limitations and exclusions.
Valuation is not insurance; it is simply a tariff-based level of motor
carrier liability. If you desire protection afforded by an insurance
policy, you should your insurance company representative about available
coverages.
FAQ:
Can my possessions be stored temporarily?
If you are unable to take immediate possession
of your new residence, your belongings can be stored in our warehouse.
However, you are responsible for the storage charges, as well as warehouse
handling and final delivery charges from the warehouse.
If your goods are placed in storage, there
will also be an additional charge for the valuation or insurance coverage
provided for your shipment. The type of coverage and cost will depend
upon whether the shipment is held in storage-transit or in permanent (long-term)
storage. Please ask us for information regarding storage arrangements.
FAQ:
Will my furnishings remain clean?
Our exclusive Sanitized®-treated, air-ride
vans provide a clean, safe move. The Sanitized® feature, which inhibits
mildew growth and controls insects, is an extra measure of hygienic safety
for your belongings. In addition to this service, we protect your
upholstered furniture with ClearGuardsm,
a clear plastic material, before they are wrapped with furniture pads.
FAQ:
Do my appliances need special attention?
Most refrigerators, washers, dryers, and
other electrical or mechanical appliances require special servicing to
assure safe transportation. Any moving parts such as motor on major
appliances, washer drums, ice makers, and the pickup arm on a phonograph
should be securely fastened for shipment. Gas appliances need to
be serviced and disconnected by your local gas utility.
It is the owner's responsibility to see
that appliances are services for shipment before they are loaded on the
van. Upon request and for an additional charge we will perform this
service, using either our own qualifies personnel, or an authorized service
company. Call us for more details.
FAQ:
Can I pack my china, glass and crystal?
Most people prefer to have their household
possessions, especially fragile items, professionally packed by a moving
company. However, if you decide to pack these items yourself, remember
that the basic principles of good packing include wrapping the items individually,
providing plenty of cushioning and making sure of a firm pack.
Be sure to select a sturdy container with
a lid. Place a two- or three- inch layer of crushed paper on the
bottom of the carton as a cushion. Wrap each item individually with
a soft material to provide a safe, protective "padded nest." Pack
the heaviest items on the bottom, lighter ones next, filling in empty spaces
with crushed paper. Place plates on edge and glassware on rims for
maximum protection. Mark the carton "Fragile," and list the content
on the outside. Be sure to seal the carton with tape. Call
us to purchase any packing goods.
FAQ:
Can I pack my clothes in a chest or dresser drawers?
Light weight clothing - sweaters, shirts,
blouses, lingerie - may be left in the drawers. Do not fill drawers
with heavy items such as books, table linens or sheets, which can damage
the piece of furniture during transit. Be careful not to leave fragile
items, money, jewelry, watches or other valuables in the drawers, as well
as anything that might spill or leak.
FAQ:
Can I move my frozen foods?
Frozen foods can be moved, but only under
specific, limited conditions. Be sure to discuss with us. In
most instances, we suggest shipping arrangements be made through local
frozen food locker plants, especially for a long distance move.
FAQ:
Can I move jewelry and other valuables?
Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry,
money, antiques and stamp collections can be included in your shipment,
provided you notify us of these items before packing or moving day.
However, we strongly recommend that you carry irreplaceable and expensive
articles with you, or make other arrangement for their transport.
In the moving industry, items worth more than $100 per pound are considered
to items of extraordinary value. You will need to specify these items
on your "Bill of Lading."
FAQ:
Can I move my house plants?
We cannot accept responsibility your plants
because they may suffer from a lack of water and light, as well as probable
temperature changes while in the van. You may prefer to transport
your house plants in the family car or ship them by plane.
Regulations vary from state to state regarding
entry of plants. Check with the state to which you are moving.
Pets cannot be carried on the moving van.
Dogs, cats, canaries and parakeets can usually be transported in the family
car. If this is inconvenient, call us to discuss alternate ways to
ship your pet safely.
TIMELINES:
6-8 Weeks Prior to Date of Move
Working with the Mover:
Call Skyline Movers. Specify a date for
the agent to visually survey your household goods and prepare an estimate.
Specify articles and be as accurate as possible. Have the estimator explain
the types of estimates available to you which will allow you to select
the best option for your needs.
If your company is paying for the move,
contact the individual responsible for your company's moving policy to
determine the services the mover will be authorized to perform. The total
charge will depend on the actual weight of your household goods after they
are loaded on the van, plus the cost of any extra services performed by
Skyline Movers.
Do you want to do any of the packing --
or will you have it done by our experienced personnel? Our agent will be
pleased to discuss packing services with you. However, if you prefer to
do it yourself, ask for our free "Doing Your Own Packing" booklet.
Show the agent everything that is going
to be moved. Specify articles that are to be packed so the estimate will
include these charges and be as accurate as possible. Any items you fail
to disclose or that are added later to the shipment will increase the cost,
even if you have been given a binding estimate.
Remember -- unless the estimate is binding,
it is not the final cost. The total charge will depend on the actual weight
of your household goods after they are loaded on the van, plus the cost
of any extra services performed by the Skyline Movers agent.
Make certain that you fully understand
the extent of the carrier's liability. The extent of the carrier's liability
is governed by the declared valuation statement on the Bill of Lading.
Sign the Estimate/Order for Service after
you are sure you have a clear understanding of each section. If you have
questions about any section, ask the agent to explain.
Keep handy our telephone number.
TIMELINES:
4-6 Weeks Prior to Date of Move
Places to Notify:
Let the post office know when you'll be
moving and what your new address will be; a temporary forwarding address
may be necessary if you do not have a permanent one before the time you
move. As an alternative, the post office will hold your mail and forward
it upon written instructions from you. Prepare a list of friends, relatives,
business firms and others who should be notified of your move. The following
checklist will be helpful:
Miscellaneous:
Consider having a "garage sale" to dispose
of unwanted items. If you donate clothing or household goods to charitable
organizations, obtain receipts showing the items' approximate value for
possible tax deductions.
Begin to use up supplies of canned goods,
frozen foods and other household items. Buy only what will be used before
moving. Consider making shipping arrangements for frozen foods with the
local frozen food locker plant.
TIMELINES:
2-3 Weeks Prior to Date of Move
Working with the Mover:
Notify your Skyline Movers agent if you
add or subtract items from your planned household goods shipment or if
there are any changes in dates of the move. Be sure to also supply the
destination location, contact address and phone numbers where you can be
reached.
Confirm with your agent any extra stops
required to pick up or deliver goods to a location other than the main
pickup or delivery points.
If your car is being moved on the van,
you are responsible for driving the car to a suitable site for the van
operator to load it. You are also responsible for picking up your car at
a suitable destination location.
Preparing the Family:
Take the family for a farewell visit to
some of the places that hold happy memories.
Have a going-away party for the children
and their friends. This gives the youngsters a chance to tell all about
the "wonderful new city we're moving to" and to invite their friends for
a visit later.
Have some fun for yourself...an open house
or an informal dinner or barbecue. Keep it simple, without elaborate preparations.
It's the guests who are important.
Make family travel plans. Reserve hotel
or motel rooms as needed. You may wish to guarantee them on a major credit
card in case of late arrival.
Have your car prepared for the trip. Check
tires, brakes and windshield wipers. If needed, have the car serviced.
Preparing Household Items:
Federal law requires that you dispose of
flammables such as fireworks, cleaning fluids, matches, acids, chemistry
sets, aerosol cans, ammunition, and poisons such as weed killer. Skyline
Movers can provide you with a complete list of "non-allowables." Drain
fuel from your power mower and other machinery. Discard partly used cans
of oil, paint, thinner, bleach, or any other substances that may be flammable
or combustible or those stored in containers that may leak.
Refillable propane tanks must be purged
and sealed by a local propane gas dealer. Discard non-refillable propane
tanks which are used for barbecue grills.
Set an appointment with a service technician
to prepare your appliances for shipment -- or have your agent send someone
out who is authorized to perform this service -- at least one day prior
to moving. Pre- as well as post-moving service may be needed for your washer,
dryer, ice maker, grandfather clock, satellite dish, water bed, computer,
etc. Third-party servicing will likely be needed before moving such items
as hot tubs, large screen televisions and some exercise equipment. Think
twice before dismantling your outside TV antenna for moving -- a new one
may cost less then moving the present one.
Set a date for having utilities disconnected.
If possible, plan to keep utilities in service through moving day.
Have rugs and draperies cleaned. Leave
both wrapped when they are returned from the cleaners.
Obtain a written appraisal of antique items
to verify value. Avoid waxing or oiling wooden antiques (and fine wood
furniture) before moving because some products might soften the wood, making
it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.
Do not clean your upholstered furniture
before moving. Moisture could cause mold if furniture must be placed in
storage.
Good packing is essential to a good move.
Unless your belongings are properly prepared before they are loaded on
the van, the risk of damage is greatly increased. Our packers do a professional
job of getting your household goods ready for moving. They have the know-how,
experience, equipment and materials needed for maximum protection.
TIMELINES:
1-2 Weeks Prior to Date of Move
Pets and Plants:
Decide what to do with house plants. Skyline
Movers cannot accept responsibility for safely moving your plants because
they may suffer from lack of water and light as well as probable temperature
changes while in the van. You may prefer to transport your house plants
in the family car or ship them by plane. Other alternatives: Give them
to friends or relatives, donate them to a hospital or other organization,
or include them in a garage sale. Some states permit the entry of all house
plants; others admit them in accordance with specific rules and regulations.
Ask your Skyline Movers agent for a copy of our "Moving With House Plants"
booklet.
Take pets to the veterinarian. Most states
require health certificates and rabies inoculations. See that identification
and rabies tags are securely attached to the pet's collar.
Arrange for transportation of pets. Take
them in the car or send via air. Consider boarding pets either at destination
or at a kennel near your present home until you are settled in the new
city. Ask your Skyline Movers agent for a copy of our "Moving With Pets"
booklet.
Other Important Details:
Collect any merchandise in layaway at local
stores.
Collect all items that are being cleaned,
stored or repaired (clothing, furs, shoes, watches, etc.). Empty your locker
at the club, bowling alley or gym.
Return library books and anything borrowed
from friends or neighbors, and collect things you may have loaned.
TIMELINES:
Day Before You Move
Working with the Packers:
Point out to the packers any extra-fragile
items needing special attention. Mark appropriately any items you do not
want packed or moved, as well as cartons you will want first when the van
arrives at destination.
If you are doing your own packing, make
sure everything is ready to go before moving day. Upon arrival, the van
operator will check to see if boxes have been properly packed.
Collect things you definitely want packed
together, such as children's toys, and place in separate groups.
Unplug all electronic appliances 24 hours
in advance of a move, if possible, so that they will be at room temperature
on moving day. This includes TV sets, home computers and stereos.
Last Minute Details:
Check closets, cabinets, and storage lockers
for any articles overlooked.
Be on hand when the service representative
arrives to prepare your appliances for shipment.
It is the owner's responsibility to see
that all mechanical and electrical equipment is properly serviced for shipping
prior to the arrival of the moving van. Servicing is at the owner's expense.
Most items such as washers, stereos, grandfather clocks. copiers and computers
have components, which must be securely fastened prior to shipping. For
safe moving of such articles, the units should be prepared by a licensed
or properly trained service technician. Upon request, and for an additional
charge, a moving company is permitted to perform this service with qualified
personnel or arrange for it through an authorized service company. If the
owner has failed to have an article serviced, the van operator may load
and haul it but will mark the inventory sheet "Not Serviced." Request a
copy of our "Moving
Working with the Mover:
It is your responsibility to see that all
of your goods are loaded, so remain on the premises until loading is completed.
After making a final tour of the house to be sure no items have been overlooked,
check and sign the inventory. Get your copy from the van operator and keep
it.
Approve and sign the combination Bill of
Lading and Freight Bill. It states the terms and conditions under which
your goods are moved and is also your receipt for the shipment. Be sure
you have completed and signed the declared valuation statement in the space
provided on the Bill of Lading, if applicable to your shipment.
Complete and sign the High-Value Inventory
form, whether or not items of extraordinary value are included in the shipment.
You also need to sign and date the "Extraordinary (Unusual) Value Article
Declaration" box on the Bill of Lading, if applicable to your shipment.
Make sure you have the destination agent's
name, address and telephone number. Your local agent or the van operator
can provide you with this information.
Make sure the van operator has the exact
destination address. Be sure about where and how you can be reached, including
telephone numbers, pending the arrival of your household goods. Contact
the destination agent whose name appears on the Bill of Lading. Try to
do this as soon as possible, and indicate where and how you can be reached
while your shipment is in transit. Give the agent the phone number and
make arrangements to accept delivery of your household goods. You may also
want to notify us at origin of your whereabouts. If you are not sure of
your contact information, you can provide us a name of a third party individual
who you intend to
Last-Minute Details:
Even if you own the telephone in your home,
please leave it connected throughout moving day. After the van leaves and
you finish last-minute calls, be sure to pack the phone in one of your
suitcases.
Take a last look around:
Working with the Mover:
Be on hand to accept delivery. If you cannot
be there personally, be sure you authorize an adult to be your representative
to accept delivery and pay the charges for you.
On the day of delivery, the van operator
will attempt to contact you by phone and/or will make an appearance at
residence if he is unable to reach you. If you are unable to be contacted
by phone, leave a note on your residence door indicating where you can
be reached. If neither you nor your representative appears to receive the
shipment within the free waiting time, your household goods will be placed
in storage. You will be responsible for all additional charges related
to the storage and re-delivery of your goods. One hour of free time is
allowed at destination if the shipment is traveling less than 200 miles;
two hours of free time are allowed if the shipment is traveling 200 miles
or more. (No free waiting time is allowed at origin.)
Check your household goods as they are
unloaded. If there is a change in the condition of the property from that
noted on the inventory at the time of loading or if any items are missing,
note any damage and/or missing items on the van operator's copy of the
inventory sheet. By signing the inventory sheet, you are acknowledging
receipt of all items listed. Personally report any loss or damage to your
Skyline Movers agent at destination immediately, they will assist you.
When unloading, each piece of furniture
will be placed as you direct, including the laying of rugs and setting
up of box springs, mattresses and bed frames. However, appliances and/or
fixtures will NOT be installed. At your request and at an additional charge
our agent will arrange for this service and for the refilling of water
bed mattresses.
You may want to place a floor plan of your
new home by the entrance which the movers will use. Show on it where each
piece of furniture should go.
Keep all documents pertaining to your move
in a safe place. You will need them for verification of moving expenses
when you file your federal income tax returns.
To prevent possible damage, television
sets, other electronic equipment and major appliances should not be used
for 24 hours after delivery, allowing them time to adjust to room temperature.
TIMELINES:
1 Week After You Move
Settling In:
Check with the post office for any mail
being held, and ask for delivery to start.
Check state (and local) requirements for
auto registration and an operator's license.
Once you've selected a family physician
and dentist, you'll need to have records transferred. Usually, dental records
can be sent to your new dentist by simply making a phone call. Transferring
medical records from your previous physician normally requires a written
request and your signature. If you want to obtain any previous hospital
records on your health history, write the medical records department at
the hospital where you were a patient. You'll need to include your previous
physician's name and the name of your new doctor.
You may want to select an attorney to discuss
laws that pertain to your destination state, county, and/or city. Be sure
to cover such matters as wills, transfers of property and investments,
insurance regulations, inheritance laws, taxes, etc. Most laws affect a
family as soon as residence in the new state and city is established.
TIPS ON PACKING:
Before You Begin
Pre-planning for the transfer of your pet,
as well as for your household goods, should begin as soon as you know you
are going to move. Consider the following...
Good packing is essential to a good move.
If you choose to do some or all of your own packing in preparation for
your relocation, it's especially important that you be familiar with the
techniques which will best protect your possessions. We've prepared this
information to share with you those methods which professional packers
use every day.
If your shipment includes delicate china,
crystal, family heirlooms or other items which need special attention,
we recommend that you discuss professional packing service with us. We'll
be glad to explain costs, materials and the unpacking services available
at your new home.
You can depend on us for knowledge and
experience in helping you prepare for your move. We are happy to assist
you and ensure that your relocation is as effortless as possible.
Consider your responsibility for packing.
If you decide to do the packing yourself,
you automatically assume a major portion of the responsibility for the
success of the move - including that of having everything properly packed
and ready for loading when the van arrives. 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.
In addition, your packing will be expected
to meet specific standards. This means complying with the principles of
good packing as outlined in this booklet, as well as following the suggestions
relative to items that should not be included in the shipment.
Skyline Movers will inspect the cartons
you have packed prior to loading the van. If, after inspection, it is their
opinion that the articles are improperly packed or that cartons are susceptible
to damage, the company may refuse to load the cartons until the questionable
items are re-packed by the moving company or removed from the shipment.
There is, of course, a charge for any packing services performed by the
moving company.
Plan ahead
Normally, our packers can complete the
packing for an average move on the day before the goods are loaded on the
van. "Pack-it-yourselfers" should allow more time - several weeks, if possible.
Since it's unlikely you'll be able to drop everything to devote an entire
day to packing, plan to work at it between your other pre-move activities.
Preparing a convenient place to work and
keeping your packing materials in one location are important in completing
the packing job by moving day. If there's a spare room available, consider
setting it up as your packing headquarters.
A large table covered with a heavy blanket,
quilt or mattress pad makes a good, firm work surface. It is helpful to
have a second covered table nearby for soon-to-be-packed items.
Gather together everything you'll need:
It's best to make other arrangements for
the transfer of certain negotiable items or articles of extraordinary value.
Or, take them with you. However, if you decide to include such items in
your shipment, be sure to list them on the high-value inventory form which
will be provided to you.
You may choose from our Full-Value Coverage
or Released Rate Liability. The option you choose determines our maximum
liability to you. Valuation is not insurance; it is a tariff level of motor
carrier liability. How much protection you have and it's cost to you depend
upon the option you choose.
Full-Value Coverage
If articles are lost or damaged while in
our care, under Full-Value Coverage, at our option your goods will either
be repaired, replaced with like items or a cash settlement made for the
current marketplace value, regardless of the age of the item. Unlike other
options, depreciation is not a factor in determining replacement value.
Full-Value and deductible options are available
in increments to fit your needs at very attractive rates. Minimum total
declared value under the Full-Value Coverage program must equal the weight
of your shipment multiplied by $5.00.
Released Rate Liability
This no-additional cost plan provides the
minimum tariff level of carrier liability for your shipment. Loss or damage
claims will be repaired or settled based on the pound weight of the damaged
or lost article multiplied by 60 cents.
TIPS ON PACKING:
Ready, Set, Pack!
Good packing means...
Start with out-of-season items. Next pack
those things used infrequently. Leave until last the things you'll need
until moving day.
Empty drawers of breakables, spillables
and anything that would puncture or damage other items.
Pack similar articles together. Do not
pack a delicate china figurine in the same carton with cast iron frying
pans, for example.
Keep all parts or pairs of things together.
For example, curtain rod hangers, mirror bolts, and other small hardware
items should be placed in plastic bags and taped or tied securely to the
article to which they belong.
Wind electrical cords, fastening them so
they will not dangle.
Wrap items individually in clean paper:
use tissue paper, paper toweling or even facial tissues for fine china,
crystal and delicate articles. Colored wrapping draws attention to very
small things. Use a double layer of newspaper for a good outer wrapping.
Place a two or three-inch layer of crushed
paper in the bottom of the carton to serve as a cushion.
As each layer is completed, fill in empty
spaces firmly with crushed paper and add additional crushed paper to make
a level base for the next layer or use sheets of cardboard cut from cartons
as dividers. Towels and lightweight blankets may also be used for padding
and
Build up in layers, with heaviest things
on the bottom, medium weight next and lightest ones on top.
Pack small, fragile, individually wrapped
articles separately or a few together in small boxes, cushioning with crushed
or shredded paper. Place the small boxes in a single large box, filling
in spaces with crushed paper.
Avoid overloading the carton but strive
for a firm pack which will prevent articles from shifting; the cover should
close easily without forcing but should not bend inward.
Seal cartons tightly with tape.
As you finish with each carton, list it
and an inventory of its contents in a special notebook. You may want to
number and code the cartons as well.
Label cartons clearly by marking each carton
on the upper right-hand top, side and end corners. When marked in this
way, determining the contents of any carton in a stack is easier. Indicate
YOUR NAME and the room to which the carton should be delivered at destination,
e.g.: “Kitchen”, “Family Room,” “Master Bedroom.” Tape a sign on the door
of each room at destination corresponding to the carton labels, so the
movers can get the cartons into the proper rooms quickly. Put a special
mark on those cartons you want to unpack first upon arrival.
Flat China and Glassware: Stand shallow bowls on edge in a carton
and deep ones (such as mixing bowls) nested two or three together upside
down on their rims. Wrap bowl lids in tissue paper or half a sheet
of newsprint and turn upside down on top of the bowl, then wrap both pieces
together in a double layer of wrapping paper. Wrap cream pitchers in clean
paper then a double layer of outer paper. Place pitchers, bowls and similar
items upright in the carton being careful to cushion carefully. Complete
the layer as for plates. Depending on their weight these items may be used
as either the bottom or the middle layer of a dish pack.
Cups and Stemware:
Wrap cups and stemware in a double layer
of wrapping paper and place them upside down on rims in a row on the upper
layer of a dish pack.
Figurines, Bric-a-brac, other delicate
Items:
Small mirrors plaques and pictures should
be wrapped individually in tissue paper or newsprint. A bath towel also
makes excellent wrapping for large glass. Place flat items on edge in a
carton. Figurines and other small fragile items should be wrapped in tissue
paper and packed in the top layer of a dish pack or in a dish pack cell
divider.
Lamp Bases and Shades:
After removing the light bulb and harp,
wrap the base separately in newsprint or a bath towel and place together
in a carton, filling spaces with crushed paper. Never wrap a lamp base
or shades in printed newspaper. Wrap the shade in two or three sheets of
plain newsprint or a pillowcase and place separate from the lamp base in
a medium or large carton. Only add enough packing paper around the shade
to keep it from shifting. Too much paper can cause the sides of a shade
to bow inward.
It is best to have a professional packer
crate large Tiffany type or other glass type shades and chandeliers.
Glass Table Tops, Marble Slabs, Extra
Large Mirrors, Paintings:
All items are very fragile. They should
either be professionally crated into a wooden crate or carried separately
in your personal vehicle if possible.
Dresser Mirrors and Pictures:
Mirrors and pictures up to 30" x 50" can
be packed into a 2 piece mirror carton. Wrap each item in a paper pad or
light blanket. Place a two to three inch layer of wadded up paper into
the bottom of both the inner and outer sections of the mirror carton. Place
the item to be packed into the inner section of the mirror carton. Place
enough wadded up paper on both sides of the item to keep it from shifting
sideways. You can also pinch the box on both sides of the item and tape
it together. Slide the outer section of the mirror carton over the inner
section until it is secure against the item being packed. The two sections
must overlap by at least 4 inches. Tape the two sections together using
an ample amount of packing tape.
There is also available
a 4 piece mirror carton. Build the mirror carton by folding in the flaps
on all four pieces and taping in place. Place the first two sections of
the carton together and slide together until they are the size of the item
you will be placing in the carton. Place a two to three inch layer of wadded
up paper into the bottom of the sections of the mirror carton. Place enough
wadded up paper on both sides of the item to keep it form shifting sideways.
You can also pinch the box on both sides of the item and tape it together.
Slide the outer sections of the mirror carton over the inner sections until
is secure against the item being packed. The four sections must overlap
by at least 4 inches. Tape the four sections together using an ample amount
of packing tape.
Books:
We recommend using a 1.5 cubic ft." Book
Carton" although any box of a similar size should suffice, because they
are heavy. They should be packed on edge, alternating bound edge to open
edge. Expensively-bound or books of sentimental value should be individually
wrapped with clean paper before packing.
Clothing:
Clothes on hangers may be placed in wardrobe
containers and arrive ready to wear with no need for pressing. We also
stock a "Laydown wardrobe" the clothes are packed flat instead of hanging.
If wardrobes are not used, you may remove clothing from hanger and fold
into box lined with clean paper. Footwear may be left in shoeboxes and
then placed into a larger box. You may also layer into a box with clean
paper dividing the layers. Shoes with spike heels or ornamentation should
be individually wrapped with clean paper and cushioned.
Linens and Bedding:
Linens and bedding may be used to cushion
other items. They may also be packed in large boxes lined with clean paper.
Mattresses should be covered with a mattress bag for sanitary purposes.
Draperies and Curtains:
Draperies and curtains may be secured on
hangers and hung in a wardrobe for wrinkle-free delivery. If pressing is
not a concern they may be folded and placed into a large box.
Tools:
Hand tools may be left in toolboxes securing
the compartments with paper. Loose tools should be packed in a small book
size box due to weight. Long handled tools should be bundled together securely
with tape.
Food:
Open boxes of dried goods should be taped
closed. Dried goods should be placed in a medium sized box. However, due
to weight canned goods should be packed in small book sized boxes. Do not
pack any items that are perishable or liquids. No food items should be
packed if your goods are to be stored. The popularity of home electronic items
has added a new dimension for the do-it-yourself packer. Home computers,
microwave ovens and stereo systems require special care to ensure they
arrive at a destination safely.
If you saved the original cartons and packing
materials in which these items arrived, it is best to repack using those
materials. Should you not have these materials, you might want to
contact a store selling your particular items and ask if discarded packing
materials are available.
Skyline Movers is familiar with current
techniques for properly packing electronic items and can assist you with
advice or pack the items for you. It is your responsibility to disconnect
electronic items prior to packers' arrival.
Utilities
Professional
Services
Insurance
Agencies
Business
Accounts
Gov.
& Public Offices
Publications
Electric
Doctor
Life
Drug
Store
Veterans
Admin.
Newspapers
Gas
Dentist
Fire
Dry
Cleaner
Library
Magazines
Water
C.P.A.
Auto
Diaper
Service
Refuse
Service
Newsletters
Telephone
Lawyer
Home
Lawn
Service
State
Motor Vehicle Bureau
Professional
Fuel
Broker
Health
Banks/Finance
Companies
Social
Security Admin.
Fraternal
Sewer
District
Accident
Credit
Card Companies
State/Federal
Tax Bureaus
Trash
Hospital
Laundry
Service
City/County
Tax Assessor
Cable/Satellite
Dairy
Auto
Agency
Appliances & Other Home Furnishings"
booklet for more information from your Skyline Movers agent.
communicate with while you are in transit.
Not recommended for the van
TIPS
ON PACKING: Loss and Damage Protection
Checklist:
cushioning. The more fragile the article
the more cushioning needed. Be sure no sharp points, edges or rims are
left uncovered.
Glassware, China Silverware:
We recommend using a dish pack carton,
an extremely sturdy carton of double wall construction designed especially
for china, glassware, clocks and other fragile items less than 18" in size.
Place a two or three-inch layer of wadded up paper in the bottom of the
carton to serve as a cushion. Wrap items individually in clean paper. Using
several sheets of paper start from the corner, wrapping diagonally, continuously
tucking in overlapping edges. A generous amount of paper and cushioning
is required for all china and glassware. Pack the largest and heaviest
items in the bottom of the carton, medium weight and most fragile items
on top. As each layer is completed, fill in empty spaces with wadded up
paper and add additional paper to make a level base for the next layer.
You may want to use our dish pack cell dividers to protect the most fragile
items such as stemware, figurines and model cars.
Place cushioning material in bottom of
the box. Then wrap each piece individually; then wrap four to six like
sized items into a bundle with a double layer of newsprint. Place these
bundled items in a dish pack carton on edge. Fill an entire layer of a
box with bundles and surround each layer with wadded up paper to prevent
shifting. Add two or three inches of wadded up paper on top of each layer
to protect rims and edges and to make a level surface to pack the next
layer on top of. Dish pack cell dividers can also be helpful in keeping
layers level.TIPS
ON PACKING: Special Household
Items