FAQs

Are estimates free?

Yes, almost all moving companies provide free estimates before a move. Ask for one if you are not sure. To obtain a free estimate from C&M Moving and Storage, call 1-713-839-7677 and we can set up an appointment for an on-site survey.

What is the difference between binding and non-binding estimates?

A non-binding estimate is one that requires you to pay the actual weight and shipment of your move. A binding estimate is a guaranteed estimate, in that you pay nothing additional beyond what you were quoted before the move. Only additional services not included in the estimate can be charged in addition to that binding estimate. For example, if you were not going to move anything out of the garage, but decided on the move day to have the entire garage added to the shipment, fees would be added to the binding estimate. Additionally, if fees related to unloading the truck are required upon arrival, they may be added as well.

Who should I call if there are questions or problems during the move?

During a move, if you have any problems or questions, you should contact your moving consultant. They will be able to answer any questions that arise during the process. There are professionals at most major moving companies who are trained to answer a variety of questions that may come up but having a single person to talk with is always better.

How early should I get my estimate before moving?

A good 4-6 week window is always best for moving. This will allow for a better delivery schedule and a more thorough walkthrough before the process. Even earlier than this is better too.

How long does an on-site survey take?

The survey time frame will depend largely on the size of the home, the distance and the parameters of your move and the questions you have for the surveyor. Usually, it will last between 1 and 2 ½ hours, so be sure to set aside a good amount of time for the process.

What time of year is best to move?

Regardless of when you move, allow at least 4-6 weeks before the move to contact a mover. However, if you are moving between May and September — the busiest months of the year for a move — allow yourself 6-8 weeks instead. The earlier you slot yourself in, the better chance you have to get the dates you are looking for.

What are moving charges based on?

Moving charges for interstate moves are based on the weight of your shipment and the mileage between the origin and the destination. When the moving consultant does your estimate, they will gladly provide you with a detailed breakdown of the estimate so you can see what is beings charged for each individual service. Other charges include packing, crating, transport, and valuation. The local moving charges are based more on time and the current rate for the movers you have hired. These charges will be quoted to you on an hourly basis and additional charges will include containers and packing labor.

What is the tariff?

The tariff is the list of rules and regulations, along with services and charges that all moving carriers who operate in interstate and local transport of household goods must abide by. Each carrier will publish their tariffs and the available services and they are always available for your inspection upon request.

Should I be at my home when the movers are?

You must be there when the move begins and at the destination when the movers arrive with your possessions. This is important so that you can ﬁle the paperwork and mark off the inventory sheet. You can appoint someone to be there in your stead, but it must be arranged before the move date.

What is the delivery spread?

This is the span of days that are provided for the loading and unloading of your items. There are always a range of days due to the presence of multiple shipments on long distance trucks. This will allow for adverse conditions, mechanical problems in transport, or issues at your destination. Delivery dates are never guaranteed for interstate moves.

How should I pay?

Most moves will require payment upon delivery in cash, certiﬁed check, money order or credit card. If your employer is going to be paying for your move, you should make arrangements for such well before the move date. Whatever form of payment you are using, you should make arrangements well before the move date to avoid any confusion.

How can a mover help me with my car?

If you have a car you’d like to add to your shipment, it is possible to add it to the shipment with the rest of your possessions. Additionally, it can be placed on a car carrier that is specialized for such things. Talk to your moving consultant before move day to discuss your options.

What do I do with my waterbed?

A waterbed should be drained fully before the move day. If it is a ﬁber ﬁlled water bed, it needs to be vacuum drained by a trained professional. You can often ﬁnd a good professional or specialist through your moving consultant before the move date.

How is upholstery protected?

All upholstery is protected with heavy weight clear wrap, stretched over the furniture to protect against any soiling or outside particles.

What cannot be moved by a mover?

Pets and plants are not loaded onto trucks, along with a number of household goods that are considered to contain hazardous materials. There is a list of prohibited items that your moving consultant can make available to you before move day so you know what you will need to handle on your own. It is also recommended that small valuables such as jewelry, as well as enough items for yourselves are brought along with you.

Do I need to empty my drawers?

It depends on what is in the drawers. Most items that can be damaged in transport need to be packed carefully and separately from the dressers and drawers. However, clothing that is light weight can be left in the drawers so long as the dresser is deemed sturdy to hold the items during transport. Nothing important or valuable should be left in any drawers.

What should I do with appliances?

Appliances including refrigerators, washers, dryers, and stoves must be completely disconnected before the move. The washer should have a stabilizer installed and stoves should be disconnected and capped by a professional. Talk to your moving consultant to ﬁnd a professional who can assist in ﬁnding professionals for these services.

Is there a storage option?

If your possessions cannot be taken to your new home right away, they can be stored at a local warehouse. There are storage warehouses in most cities that can provide short term or long term storage for your possessions for additional fees. Additionally, valuation fees may be increased due to storage. The storage is accessible, but you must contact an agent of the warehouse ahead of time to view your possessions while in storage.

Will the truck or van have only my items?

For local moves, the truck will usually contain only your items. For interstate moves, how many people’s stuff is packed onto the same vehicle depends on the number of items and the size of the truck.

Are my items ever moved between vehicles?

For the most part, items are loaded onto a vehicle and they stay there until they arrive at their destination. However, if the load date is inﬂexible and the delivery date is, the items may be held by the van line before picking and driving to the destination. Additionally, if your street is inaccessible by the larger truck, the items may be transferred to a shuttle.