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From when you should reach out to a moving company to how long you should expect your move to take. There are many questions you may have before, during, and after your move. We have compiled the most common ones here.

When should I contact a moving company?

Ideally, four to six weeks in advance. Although the moving van may not be assigned to a move until a few days before the move, the earlier you book your move, the more likely Chipman will be to meet your preferred pickup and delivery dates.

It is our goal to meet your preferred dates, but if this is not possible we will provide additional options for moving. For this reason we require flexibility with alternate pickup and delivery dates. You will be notified in advance with a loading date and an estimated arrival date.

Do I need an estimate?

Yes, all moves require an estimate. Before scheduling any move, Chipman will estimate how many items you plan to move and their weight. A moving consultant will either visit your home or conduct a virtual move survey to determine the approximate cost and give you a written estimate for services.

The estimate in the pre-move phase of the relocation is simply an estimate of the total cost for the move. Prior to actual delivery of the shipment all charges must be paid in full, the Chipman team will ensure that all charges are agreed upon and approved by the customer.

What is a binding estimate?

A binding estimate specifies in advance, the 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 during the moving process, the total cost will increase. An addendum specifying these additional charges will be prepared for you to sign. Binding estimates are valid for the time period specified, up to 30 days.

When is the best time to move?

The best time to move is during the fall, winter and spring months, avoiding summer months if possible. During these months it is best to avoid the first and last week of each month. If it is possible, the best days for packing and loading are Mondays, Tuesday, Wednesday’s, these days can often offer the best move options as well.

However, Chipman believes you should move when it is most convenient for you. We understand there are many factors involved in this decision and we’ll do everything possible to accommodate all your needs.

How long does it take to move?

The length of time of time for a move depends on the size of the move and distance the move is being transported. Local moves are handled right away, other intrastate and interstate moves may take a couple of days to a couple of weeks depending on the size and distance of the relocation. Each Chipman Relocation Representative and dedicated move coordinator will be able to provide a relocation move plan including packing, loading and delivery dates to meet the needs of each move we handle.

What should I do if my move date changes?

We understand that the unexpected can happen at any time. If a change to move dates is needed, our move coordinator should be contacted immediately and we will try to accommodate the situation as best we can. During a change of specified dates during the move, the cost of services may change.

How is the cost of my move determined?

The cost of each move is determined by the exact services provided by Chipman. It is our goal and mission to provide fair, competitive and transparent costs to our customers. Our customers only pay for services that we perform. The cost for most relocations are based on packing, unpacking, transportation services, valuation, third party specialized services, automobile transportation, etc. All costs are disclosed on our estimate form and final charges are detailed to each customer prior to delivery.

How and when should I pay?

Unless prior arrangements have been made, you are required to pay all charges before your belongings are unloaded at their destination. Payment can be made in cash, traveler’s check, money order or cashier’s check. Interstate moves can be paid with credit/debit card, with advance approval obtained prior to loading day. We accept all mayor cards, American Express®, Discover®, Visa® and MasterCard®. Personal checks are not accepted.

If you were given a non-binding estimate and your actual moving costs exceed that estimate by more than 110%, you will only be required to pay 10% over your estimated cost at the time of delivery. You will have 30 days after delivery to pay the amount over 110%.

If you plan to store your belongings at your destination (storage-in-transit), all transportation charges must be paid at time of delivery of the shipment to the warehouse. Storage charges will be based on the applicable rates set forth in our tariff.

Am I protected against loss or damage while my goods are in-transit?

Yes. Chipman offers two protection plans for you to choose while items are in-transit. Full-Value Protection and Released Value Liability. The protection plan selected determines the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and establishes Chipman’s maximum liability. The Chipman Relocation Specialist will discuss these options with you and allow you to chose the option that best fits your needs and budget.

What are items of extraordinary value?

Items valued at more than $100 per pound are known as “articles of extraordinary value.” These items must be listed on the High-Value Inventory Form, which will be given to you by your moving consultant to complete. If an article of extraordinary value is not listed on the form, Chipman’s maximum liability is limited to $100 per pound per article.

In the event of a claim, any settlement involving an article of extraordinary value listed on the High-Value Inventory Form is limited to the value of the article, not to exceed the declared value of the shipment, based upon the Chipman valuation program applicable to your shipment.

Examples of articles of extraordinary value are: jewelry, furs, art and coin collections, crystal, figurines, antiques, Oriental rugs, precious stones or gems, china and silverware.

Can my possessions be stored temporarily?

Yes. If you are not ready to take possession of your belongings at your destination, they can be placed in temporary storage at a local Mayflower or United Van Lines warehouse. You’ll be responsible for the storage charges, warehouse valuation coverage and final delivery charges from the warehouse.

The cost and type of warehouse valuation coverage provided for your shipment is dependent upon whether the shipment is held in storage-in-transit (temporary) or in permanent storage (long-term).

What type of packing/unpacking services do you offer?

Chipman offers customized packing/unpacking services to fit all types of moves and budgets, customers can choose to pack as much or as little as they wish. We can pack the entire shipment, pack only a portion of the belongings or customers can pack everything on their own. Chipman is here to personalize your move process and make this transition as smooth as possible.

Packing options can be discussed with any Chipman Relocation Representative during the estimate process. Chipman move coordinators can also provide information on our packing services.

Will my furnishings stay clean?

Chipman’s air-ride trucks provide a clean, smooth move. Our team protects your upholstered furniture with protective wrap before it is covered with furniture pads.

Can Chipman give me some advice on how to pack my belongings?

If you decide to pack yourself, review our packing tips for advice on how to pack electronics, mirrors, dishes, and much more.

Can I move frozen foods?

We cannot move frozen food during the relocation process.

For a complete list of items that cannot be shipped, visit our Non-Allowable Checklist.

Can I move jewelry and other valuables?

Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry, money, photographs, antiques and stamp collections can be included in your shipment, provided you notify your moving consultant of these items prior to packing or moving day. However, we recommend that you take irreplaceable and expensive articles with you or make other arrangements for their transport.

Can I move my houseplants?

Chipman cannot accept responsibility for safely moving your plants, because they may suffer from a lack of water and light as well as probable temperature changes while in transit. You may prefer to transport your houseplants in the family car.

Prior to your move you should also consider that some states prohibit the entry of all plants, while other states will admit plants under certain conditions. Be sure to check the regulations of the state to which you’re moving.

For a complete list of items that cannot be shipped, visit our Non-Allowable Checklist.

Can I move my pet(s)?

Pets cannot be carried in the moving truck. Most family pets can be transported in the family car, if this isn’t the case or if it’s inconvenient, Chipman team members will be glad to suggest alternate ways to ship your pets safely. Check out our helpful article, “Moving with Pets.”

For a complete list of items that cannot be shipped, visit our Non-Allowable Checklist.

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