Frequently Asked Questions before moving to Canada
Q: How To Select The Right Mover?
A: A reputable, good mover should have an established place of business, license and insurance. 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, staying one step ahead of the law. You want a mover who has been in business for a while, who 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. Read suggestions for questions to ask movers.
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, armoires …etc. This makes the furniture much lighter and easier to move. It also limits 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 forced into tipping movers if you feel it was not deserved.
Q: Do Movers Charge Extra For Moving Large Items Such As Pianos?
A: Some moving companies in Canada do and some moving companies don’t have additional charges for moving pianos. Piano moves and any other extraordinarily heavy furniture are all charged the same way that regular moves are charged.
Q: What Happens If It Rains, Snows Or The Weather Is Bad?
A: Any professional mover should commit regardless of weather. Unpredictable weather might slow down the job but weather is unavoidable. If your move occurs on a day where the weather is acting up 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 not free. Movers pay for them and will usually charge you a discounted rate should you decide to move with them. If you want to pack your stuff before the move, you can order some packing materials. We do not recommend getting boxes from your local grocery store. These boxes are often flimsy and many times carry insects because food has been around them. Always use double corrugated boxes, not single. 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 in Canada 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 readily available, the move will operate at an optimal performance level 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 Pet?
A: Pets cannot be carried on the moving van. Dogs, cats, canaries and parakeets can usually be transported in the family car.
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 the moving company in Canada 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, a credit card can be used too (with advance approval). Personal checks are not always 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 from 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 in Canada usually require alternate pickup and delivery dates. They will 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, Motor Oil.
