Moving Information FAQ
Planning on moving? Worried about how you can go about the process as smoothly as possible? The following are some effective tips and answers to some of your questions on how to effectively go through the process.
Q: How do I Get an Estimate for my intended Move?
A: To estimate your move we encourage you to fill out our Online Estimate Form. The form is quite detailed ensuring that you do not fail to feel some minor detail about your move. Alternatively - and at any time of your communicating with us - you can give us a Call. If you live within proximate distance to our office (i.e. within the GTA), we will visit your place to evaluate the amount of inventory and packing work that will be needed.
This visit is FREE of charge and serves as part of our total service package.
If you are outside of Greater Toronto Area, we will speak with you in detail over the phone – and get all the information on your inventory and other important details to provide you with the quote.
Q: How do I Select the Right Mover?
A: A good moving service should have an established place of business from which they operates as well as a valid license and up-to-date insurance coverage. It is not wise to use a mover who is new to the business. They may not know what they're doing, or they may be a fly-by-night who were doing business under another name last month and will be doing business yet another name next month, always staying one step ahead of the law. You want a mover who has been in business for a while and knows the business. You should ask your mover to supply you with a few references. A satisfied customer is the best sales tool for a mover.
Q: Can Clothes And Other Items Be Left Inside The Furniture During The Move?
A: We recommend that all clothes and items be removed from inside the furniture. This includes all desks, dressers, armoire etc. This makes the furniture much lighter and easier to move. It also limits the possibility of wear and tear to your furniture during the move. Generally the only items of furniture that can be safely moved with items still in them are small light pieces of furniture containing very light belongings inside (sweaters, shirts, blouses, lingerie).
Be careful NOT to leave fragile items and anything that might spill or leak.
Q: Do I Tip The Movers?
A: Like all over service businesses, tipping is not required. A tip is a reward for a job well done. Do not feel obligated to give a tip if you feel it was not deserved.
Q: Do You Charge Extra For Moving Large Items Such As Pianos?
A: TSC has no additional charges for moving pianos. Piano moves and any other extraordinarily heavy furniture are all charged the same way that regular moves are charged. However we do have professional piano movers that have 5+ years of piano moving experience.
Q: What Happens If It Rains, Snows Or The Weather Is Bad?
A: We at Toronto Service Center will always honor our moving commitments regardless of the weather. Unpredictable weather might slow down the job but weather is unavoidable. If your move occurs on a day where the weather is especially unpleasant our movers will take precautions to protect floors and carpeting from excess dirt and soil.
Q: Do The Movers Supply Cartons?
A: Most if not all movers carry a large assortment of boxes and materials to pack the contents of your home. These boxes are however usually not free. Movers pay for them and will usually charge you a discounted rate should you decide to move with them.
At TSC, we provide you with boxes FREE of charge during your move to protect fragile items. However, if you want to pack your stuff before the move, you can order some packing materials here. We do not recommend getting boxes from your local grocery store. These boxes are often flimsy and sometimes carry insects because of foodstuff items that were packed in or around them. Always use double (not single) corrugated boxes. The stronger your boxes, the better chance your goods have surviving any mishaps, should they occur.
Q: When Is The Best Time To Move?
A: If there is a choice, most moving companies suggest you avoid the summer, beginning or end of the month or winter holidays. The heaviest demands are placed on vans, equipment and personnel during these periods.
However, you should move when it's most convenient for you. Factors involved in the decision may include:
* Whether the move must be made immediately.
* Transferring children during the school term.
* Separation of the family while the move is under way.
If the move can be scheduled for a time when vans and trained personnel are most readily available, we'll be better equipped to meet your preferred delivery schedule.
Q: Can I Pack My China, Glass & Crystal?
A: 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 2 or 3 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, empty 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 contents on the outside. Be sure to seal the carton with tape. Cartons, paper, tape and other packing materials may be purchased here for a very modest cost.
Q: Can I Move My Plants?
A: TSC 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 the van. You may prefer to transport your house plants in the family car.
Q: Can I Move My Pet?
A: Pets cannot be carried on the moving van. Dogs, cats, canaries and parakeets can usually be transported in the family car. If this isn't convenient, TSC will be glad to suggest alternate ways to ship your pets safely.
Q: Can I Move Jewelry And Other Valuables?
A: Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry, money, antiques and stamp collections can be included in your shipment, provided you notify TSC of these items before packing or moving day. However, we strongly recommend that you carry irreplaceable and expensive articles with you, or make other arrangements for their transport.
Q: How And When Should I Pay?
A: 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 move can be made by one of the following methods: cash or cashier's check. In addition, the Visa or MasterCard can be used too (with advance approval). Personal checks are not accepted.
Q: When Should I Call A Moving Company?
A: The earlier, the better. Although the actual van assignments may not be made until a few days before your move, it's wise to give your moving company a 4 to 6 weeks notice, if possible. The more lead time you can give, the more likely we will be able to meet your delivery schedule. All moving companies usually 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 of the estimated date of arrival. If your pickup and delivery dates are critical due to such factors as lease expiration or a real estate closing, you may choose a preferred service which will enable us to accommodate a reasonable schedule based on your specific needs. You should discuss your specific pickup and delivery requirements with your relocation counselor, who can advise you of the types and costs of services available.
Q: What Items Are Not Allowed To Move?
A: Before your possessions are packed and loaded, it is important that you understand which items cannot be shipped because they represent a hazard or are perishable. Listed below are some common non-allowable items that you will need to address prior to your pack and load dates:
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS - items that are flammable, corrosive or explosive.
Examples include: Aerosols, Fireworks, Nail Polish, Ammonia, Gasoline, Batteries, Paint, Kerosene, Lamp Oil, Pesticides, Lighter Fluid, Loaded Guns, and Motor Oil.
Q: Will You Charge Me the Estimate You Quoted or Will It Be More and will the deposit be refundable?
A: We will stand by our quote: provided the information received from you is accurate, the price we charge you will be within the quote (or lower if possible). Deposit is non refundable upon cancellation but may be applied to a future booking if more than 14 days notice is given. Deposit will only be applied to moves re-booked within 90 days.
Thank you for choosing us.
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