NYC Moving Tips - NY Relocation Made Easy | Big Apple Movers NYC

Things That Can Go Wrong When Moving

Despite the best possible planning, relocation remains an unpredictable endeavor. Numerous remarkable anecdotes and unforeseen occurrences have been reported by individuals during the moving process. Given the complexity of moving, it is advisable to be aware of potential challenges.

While it is impossible to predict every eventuality, it is possible to identify the most common obstacles that may arise during relocation. This article will prove to be a valuable resource for those who are preparing to move in the near future.

Last-Minute Packing

People usually plan ahead to prevent problems when moving. However, we’ve all had to pack at the last minute for a trip. The same disorder and confusion can occur when packing for a move at the last minute.

Overpacking is the most common problem here. If you didn’t have enough time to pack (or you are trying to do it in the cheapest time to move) and you see the movers arriving at your place, you’ll forget to pack some items.

Besides, you can overpack the boxes or break something if you’re in a hurry. It often happens that people get oversentimental and refuse to leave some items behind despite previous arrangements. The consequence of packaging is the extra cost of the weight of your household.

Oversized Furniture

One of the most common and challenging issues that can arise during a move is furniture that does not fit through doorways. This problem often occurs when individuals fail to measure the available space in their home and create a floor plan in advance. When furniture cannot fit through doors, stairs, or hallways, it can cause significant inconvenience.

However, there are several options available to address this issue. One option is to remove the door from its hinges to create additional space. Another option is to disassemble the furniture and remove any detachable parts.

The most difficult solution involves using a rigging system to move items through a window, which requires specialized equipment and a team of individuals.

Additional Costs

What an unpleasant situation. Empty pockets are a big problem when it comes to relocating. Extra fees and additional costs are the things that can go wrong while moving and leave us with empty pockets. To avoid this, before you sign the moving contract, read all the details and ask for extra costs.

If you already have your estimates in writings, that’s good. But remember that the final moving cost is determined by the total weight of your household. If you run out of packing supplies or movers have to lift heavy furniture and take it downstairs that can lead to extra moving costs.

man with empty pockets

Parking and Traffic

Parking and traffic issues are terrible things that can go wrong when moving to a new home, especially if you’re moving to a metropolis like NYC. Despite the fact that you’re going to lose a couple of hours searching for a parking lot or waiting in a traffic jam, you can get extra fees.

If the moving truck has to drive around until you find a parking space, the moving company can charge you an extra fee. Make sure you reserve parking space ahead of time and explore all ways to your new home in case of traffic jams.

cars in the street

Property Damage

Whether you are relocating independently or have enlisted the services of a professional moving company, it is imperative to exercise caution, proper handling, and adequate protection of your furniture to prevent property damage. While minor mishaps may occur during the moving process, property damage should not be one of them.

Whether you intend to sell or rent your former residence, it is essential to ensure that it is left in good condition. Failure to protect heavy furniture, bulky items, and floors can result in accidents. For instance, movers may accidentally drop a heavy item, causing damage to the flooring.

Additionally, walls may be scratched or dented if the available space is not measured accurately. Banisters may also be broken, and corners chipped while moving your belongings. In addition to the cost of moving, you may also incur repair expenses.

Lost Items

Losing your valuables and seeing your fragile items damaged are among the worst things that can go wrong when moving. Unfortunately, accidents happen, but two main reasons for damaging items during a relocation are improper packing and loading. If you want to protect your belongings, ask your moving company about moving insurance and choose one.

But what if professional movers lose your item? You can file a complaint against your movers. And if they damage it? You can act according to moving insurance you chose. There is one thing to know, unexpected situations, car accidents and disasters like hurricane and flood are something movers are not responsible for. If protecting your valuables is something important that you inform yourself about the certificate of insurance moving.

things that can go when moving

Moving Truck Issues

This example is one of those things that can go wrong when moving on which you don’t have influence. The professional and reliable moving company has professional drivers and the moving truck in an excellent condition. But there are some things that can happen to your belongings if the moving truck gets in trouble. If it’s your fault, and you picked the wrong size of moving truck, your items will be stuffed inside and damaged.

The moving truck can get into traffic jam so you need to wait for hours. In case that moving truck breaks down on the road, your shipment will most probably have to be transferred into another vehicle. The worst scenario is when the moving truck gets into a traffic accident or catches fire.

Your Moving Rights and Responsibilities

If they are not moving by themselves and not using DIY tips, people consider hiring a professional moving company to deal with the relocation of their households. Moving for the first time, and moving generally if you’re not experienced, can be more difficult if you don’t know your rights and responsibilities when you move.

Although this may sound boring and unnecessary, accidents and bad situations often occur, and you know the famous statement: better safe than sorry! If you are curious to find out everything about this topic, you can read “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”, a booklet prepared by the Federal Motor Carrier and Safety Administration to explain to customers what are their rights and what they can expect from hiring professional movers.

Consider moving with your family soon? Take a look at Brooklyn moving quote and get to know your rights when you move.

 

The Most Important Information Summary

moving rights

Many people who move for the first time or do not have the experience, seek to know important information. If you want to know Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move, before we go to details, we’ll give you a short summary of the most important things, according to a booklet we mention in the beginning, stated by Federal Law. They are: 

  • Movers must give written estimates. 
  • Movers may give binding estimates. 
  • Non-binding estimates are not always accurate; actual charges may exceed the estimate. 
  • If your mover provides you (or someone representing you) with any partially complete document for your signature. You should verify the document is as complete as possible before signing it. Make sure the document contains all relevant shipping information, except the actual shipment weight. 
  • You have the right to request from your mover the availability of guaranteed pickup and delivery dates. 
  • You have the right to ask mover, and request an explanation of the difference between valuation and actual insurance. 

Choosing a professional moving company

The first to know among main rights and responsibilities when you move is to choose a reliable and licensed moving company. If you want to stay safe and don’t risk, don’t hire a company with day laborers or contract suspicious employees. They usually don’t have any insurance. In case some injury happens you need to pay for it.

Besides, they are not professionals and don’t know how to deal with equipment properly. Which can lead to damaging and losing your items? Before you choose one, have at least three moving companies evaluate the items being moved and provide a detailed estimate.

Check for their registration and license and make sure to read feedbacks from other users. If you’re looking for a reliable moving company to relocate your household check amazing services from Big Apple Movers and relocate without stress. 

Moving Rights and responsibilities

moving rights

Inventory

Prior to commencing the process of relocation, it is imperative that you acquaint yourself with your rights and responsibilities. Failure to do so may result in undesirable consequences. It is noteworthy that local movers typically do not conduct an inventory of your belongings. Conversely, full-service movers typically undertake the task of documenting the items to be transported prior to loading them onto the delivery vehicle.

This entails a joint inspection of your residence with the mover, during which a numbered sticker is affixed to each item to be moved, accompanied by a corresponding description. The description should include the current condition of the item, as well as any preexisting damage, if applicable. It is incumbent upon you to ensure that the mover has accurately and comprehensively recorded the relevant information pertaining to your belongings.

In the event that the descriptions provided are unclear or inaccurate, it is advisable to seek clarification prior to the commencement of the move. Additionally, it is recommended that you obtain a copy of the inventory list and contract for your personal records.

Estimates and Contract

Your rights and responsibilities when you move refer also to estimates. The licensed moving company need to provide a cost estimate to you based on several things. The first one is the type of relocation. Local movers are typically charged on an hourly basis. These charges are subject to the number of mover’s personnel provided and a minimum charge.

This means you should ask your movers about the price by the hour. Distance movers charge with a base on distance, and weight of the shipment. There are also some additional charges if the movers do services such as packing and unpacking if they move specific items such as piano or safes if they need to carry items upstairs and other.

Before you sign a contract you should know your mover must supply an estimate and contract, in writing. The contract must possess a signature by both parties. Also, be aware of the risks of hiring cheap movers.

Liability for Loss/Damage

moving estimate and contract

In regards to the rights and responsibilities associated with relocation, individuals typically express concern regarding the liability for loss or damage of their belongings. It is important to note that moving companies are obligated to assume a certain level of liability, which is typically established through legal liability valuation and insurance coverage.

As per legal requirements, professional movers are required to provide motor vehicle coverage, which includes combined bodily injury and property damage liability coverage. The law also stipulates a minimum limitation on the release of the mover’s liability for the value of a shipper’s goods, which is set at no less than 60 cents per pound, per article.

This constitutes the basic moving insurance coverage. However, if one desires additional protection for their belongings, they may opt for either full value protection or third-party options. In the event that a claim is filed under full value protection, the movers are presented with three options for fulfilling the claim.

Packing Your Household

It’s important to know your rights and responsibilities when you move, especially before you start to pack your household. Why is this important? It’s because most moving companies don’t allow you insurance if you pack things by yourself.

If you want to have moving insurance, you should let a moving company does the packing. Not to stay in doubt, ask your mover if a do-it-yourself packing guide is available. If it’s not and your movers have to pack your household, this will be done before the moving day, or on the last day, if it’s about last-minute moving.

You have the right to know that delays can occur. Your responsibility is to, before you sign the packing order, check if all items you want to be move are ready for packing.  When looking to save more on your budget make sure to investigate properly. Investigate when is the cheapest time to relocate.

What Is a Valid Moving Contract

Deciding to move to the Big Apple is a big deal. If you had never moved before, you are in for a show. A bad one, that is. However, there are things you can do to make your move a bit easier. One of those things is learning what should a moving contract contain. What are the elements of a valid moving contract? Some companies may try to scam you and that is why you need to read your contract carefully.

Hence, it is of utmost significance to have a comprehensive understanding of each and every component of a legally binding agreement. It is imperative to ensure the safety of your possessions and to prevent any attempts by the movers to evade their obligation of providing satisfactory services. Consequently, we hereby introduce the constituents of a valid contract for moving services. Let us commence forthwith!

read and see if there are all elements of a valid moving contract before signing

What is a Moving Contract

What is a contract? A contract is a legally binding agreement between two entities that serves to formalize a particular transaction or arrangement. An example of such an agreement is a trade contract between a buyer and a seller. By entering into a contract, both parties are afforded the opportunity to seek legal recourse in the event of a dispute. The primary function of a contract is to ensure the safety and security of all parties involved.

Also, the contract must be in the written form if you want to use it as evidence. If you take the easy way out and make a deal with your moving company verbally you cannot use that in the court of law. So, before you hire cheap movers Brooklyn and make a contract, make sure everything is written down so you do not have any trouble during and after the move. With all that said, let’s see what are the elements of a valid moving contract.

  • The time and date of the moving day
  • All moving expenses and the final price
  • Estimated delivery date
  • Each and every service you require from the moving company
  • Your insurance policy
  • Any additional terms you and your moving company agree to

Elements of a Valid Moving Contract

Every individual moving contract is unique due to the various tasks that may be requested of the movers, as well as the specific terms and conditions outlined by the company. The presented terms and conditions are subject to acceptance or rejection by the client, with the alternative option of seeking alternative moving services.

It is imperative to approach the terms and conditions with utmost seriousness, as moving companies aim to safeguard themselves against fraudulent activities.

terms and conditions card

Additional Services

It is imperative that one exercises caution when signing any moving contract and thoroughly reads it prior to doing so. Additionally, it is advisable to inquire about any uncertainties with the movers before engaging in contract negotiations. Should one require supplementary services, it is recommended that they inquire about the feasibility of such services and the impact they may have on the overall cost of the move.

Trustworthy and dependable movers will provide transparent responses to all queries and may even furnish an immediate quote for additional services. It is prudent to take note of all information provided and compare it to the moving contract presented.

Canceling the Contract

It is imperative that your moving contract includes a cancellation policy. In the event that the move must be cancelled, there is likely a specific protocol that both you and your mover must follow. Such a cancellation may be initiated by either party. For instance, if you intend to transport flammable items, the mover may cancel the move. However, it is possible to dispose of such items and proceed with the move as planned.

Other questionable items are firearms. They are bound by different laws in each state. If you are moving to Brooklyn this should not be a problem. But moving interstate may be an issue. So, if you want to move guns, make sure to check all the laws and regulations of all the states the movers will pass through during the moving process.

handshake
A verbal contract is not the right way to go

Bill of Lading

A bill of lading is the most important document in your moving file. It is the actual confirmation that the movers are going to load your belongings on their truck, and drive them to the location of your new home. It is also the document that contains the total price of your move and all the services that the moving company will provide you.

The movers will give you your copy of the bill of lading on the day of your move. Another thing why the bill of lading is important is because it contains your insurance coverage. The movers conducting your long-distance move should explain each term and condition on the bill of lading and that should include your insurance coverage.

Make sure to put your bill of lading in the “most important moving documents” folder and keep it there until the moving process is finished. The movers themselves will have another copy of it just in case. The bill of lading will also contain your full inventory.

Inventory List

The inventory list will be featured along with your bill of lading. Your moving company will probably make an inventory of all the boxes you have. However, after getting moving boxes, you should make an inventory of what you put in each one. This is a big part of your moving organization. Proper organization is vital for everything in life, and that applies to moving as well.

The best way to make an inventory list is to write down each thing you put in the box, and then label them by room or by type. Mark the box with a colored sticker or just write down “kitchen utensils” or whatever else you put in it.

Conclusion

The moving contract is a very important document and you should not conduct your move if your moving company wishes to do the move without it. With all that said, good luck with your move!

Moving from Manhattan to Long Island City

Long Island City, also known as LIC, is a quickly growing city in the US. It used to be a place with lots of factories and bakeries, but it has changed a lot in the past ten years. LIC is on the west side of Queens, across from Manhattan. Now, there are many museums, art studios, restaurants, and bars in LIC. This is why lots of people are moving from Manhattan to Long Island City.

To enjoy the lively neighborhood while keeping one eye on Manhattan. Because Long Island City is just across the river from Manhattan, it has some of the best views on Midtown Manhattan an Upper East Side. And if you decided to enjoy those scenic views too, hire Manhattan movers and start packing.

Moving from Manhattan to Long Island City requires some planning

To move from Manhattan to Long Island City, you need to plan. Firstly, you have to find an apartment. The prices are usually 30% lower than in Manhattan. This means you can get an extra bedroom for the same rent.

If you are planning to move from Manhattan for upsizing, Long Island City is a good choice. Next, you will need to find a moving company that will do your relocation. If you want to know how much do movers cost in NYC you can find enough information on the internet.

Calculating costs of moving from Manhattan to Long Island City

But one thing is for sure, they don’t come cheap. So before you decide on the moving company that will move your belongings do some research. You can find some good deals if you do your research well.

Know the LIC neighborhoods

Long Island City consists of several different neighborhoods. So before you start looking for an apartment you should learn about those neighborhoods. Long Island City is currently somewhere in the middle of its transformation from industrial to a residential area. And some parts have changed more than others. Real Estate prices also vary across different neighborhoods.

Hunters Point, Sunnyside, and Astoria, which is also considered a part of LIC, are neighborhoods that are more expensive. On the other side, Dutch Kills and Ravenswood are more affordable options. But, wherever you choose to move don’t do it without the help of professional moving companies. Here is a short review of LIC neighborhoods.

Long Island City Neighborhoods:

  • Hunters Point is the LIC neighborhood that is the prime target for people who are moving from Manhattan to Long Island City.
  • Astoria is one of the best neighborhoods in LIC. Sometimes the biggest Greek neighborhood in New York City has transformed into a multicultural and cosmopolitan area.
  • Sunnyside is a great small family neighborhood with great subway connection with Manhattan. And that is its biggest advantage.
  • Ravenswood is a LIC neighborhood close by the East River, which is home mostly to warehouses. Still, it is home for more than 4,000 people.
  • Dutch Kills is an old and still not totally transformed neighborhood. So today, it is a combination of an industrial and residential area.
  • Queensbridge neighborhood is home to the largest public housing unit in NYC. The 26 buildings are home to 7,000 people.
  • Queens Plaza sounds very nice, and today it really is. But until recently it was a neighborhood known for strip clubs and gyms.
  • Blissville is a small area next to Cavalry Cemetery. A little bit forgotten neighborhood, with auto repair shops, warehouses, and factories.

Moving from Manhattan to Long Island City, Hunters Point

Hunters Point is a great neighborhood in Long Island City. Many young people and families with kids live there. You can see moms with strollers, kids on bikes, and people walking dogs everywhere. It has an amazing view of Manhattan. If you have a car, you won’t have trouble finding a place to park.

Move from Manhattan to Long Island City and see many people walking dogs and pushing strollers

Compared to the rest of NYC people in LIC have no such problems. One of the reasons why there are no problems with parking is great transportation. Hunters Point is located only one subway stop from Grand Central Station in Manhattan. So you can be in Manhattan in 10 minutes. And reaching other boroughs from Hunters Point is also a piece of cake.

Moving from Manhattan to Long Island City, Astoria

Astoria is considered to be one of the best places to live in Queens. This neighborhood is home to many families that live here for two or three generations. But in recent years it is becoming a home to hipsters and young professionals. But they are not influencing the neighborhood too much.

They are not staring on new businesses; they are here because of the reasonable rents and a short commute to Manhattan. So the place remains quiet and suitable for families. With one of the best parks located on the East River, Astoria Park. Astoria was once the biggest Greek neighborhood in NYC. And a lot of that Greek influence can still be seen mostly through food. So, if you are into Greek cuisine, there is no better place in NYC than Astoria neighborhood.

Moving from Manhattan to Long Island City, Sunnyside

Sunnyside is a small middle-class LIC neighborhood with great transportation, and that is considered its biggest advantage. It has many great restaurants and pubs.

Transportation in Sunnyside

Although there are no real parks in this area of LIC, the place is very nice with lots of trees. There is a Spanish Theatre and the art collective Flux Factory organizes fun art events at their warehouse. The neighborhood is safe but some parts are best to be avoided during the night.

Call your movers and start packing

Moving from Manhattan to Long Island City is a great choice. Especially for people who are a little bit tired of Manhattan’s fast-paced life, but who are tied to Manhattan either by work or some other reason. LIC offers lower rents, easier life, short commute, and the best views on Manhattan. If you decided that Long Island City is the best place for you, call cheap movers NYC and start with packing. You will not regret it.

Risks Of Hiring Cheap Movers

Everyone is aware that if you want to get professional help on moving day, you need to pay some extra money. A crucial part of moving is defining a budget. If moving company fit into your budget, you can start looking for the company that suits you best.

If your budget constraints prevent you from allocating a substantial amount of funds towards a moving company, you may encounter a predicament. Given the multitude of expenses associated with moving, you may need to make some cost-cutting decisions.

However, it is important to exercise caution when considering hiring a cheap moving company, as doing so can pose significant risks. Prioritizing your needs and assessing the potential hazards of hiring inexpensive movers is crucial. The following are some of the risks associated with engaging the services of low-cost movers.

Low-Quality Service

A close-up of one dollar bills. One of the risks of hiring cheap movers is their low-quality.

Of course, paying a lot of money for something does not guarantee better quality. However, that doesn’t mean that the price and the quality of the services aren’t connected at all. Good moving services usually cost more than a low-quality service. If the movers are poorly paid, they might care less about relocating your things.

So, one of the risks of hiring cheap movers is the possibility of their services being of lower quality. Maybe you should research where to get moving boxes for moving, instead of saving your money by hiring cheap movers. After all, you want your things to stay secure and damage-free during the move, so you should really consider investing in a good quality moving company. If your priority is hiring movers who are professional and reliable, you should probably pay some extra money.

Lack Of Experience

Silver coins on a white surface

It’s pretty understandable that you want to lower your moving costs and save some money when you’re moving house. You probably have a long list of expenses and you want to reduce the amount of money you’re spending. However, hiring cheap movers is risky as they might be inexperienced. It could be a brand new moving company that isn’t charging a lot because they want to attract customers. However, you probably don’t want to be one of their first clients.

It is imperative that individuals entrusted with the transportation of personal belongings possess the necessary expertise and knowledge to handle the relocation process with utmost care. Opting for inexpensive movers may pose a significant risk to the safety of one’s possessions during transit.

In the event of any damage to furniture, walls, or doors, the cost of repair may be equivalent to that of a reputable moving company. While it is possible for low-cost movers to possess adequate experience, the potential for subpar service remains a valid concern.

Scam Possibilities

A pile of road signs that say ''SCAM''. Among the risks of hiring cheap movers is the possibility of getting scammed.

The biggest risk of hiring an inexpensive moving company is that it could be a fraudulent company. This is one of the worst things you could encounter during a move. If the company is charging way too little, research it thoroughly and make sure that it is indeed legitimate. Some moving companies do offer discounts or special deals sometimes, but their regular prices don’t really differ a lot from other companies.

After all, every company needs to pay the staff, insurance, the moving truck, and gas. So, if you run into a company whose prices are suspiciously low, maybe you should move on to a different one.

Do the Research Before Hiring

In order to make sure you don’t get scammed by a moving company, you should do your research. Learn everything you should know about a moving company and find out how to recognize fraudulent companies.

When you’re hiring movers, the price isn’t the only thing that matters. In fact, here are some of the things you should pay attention to.

  1. A legitimate moving company has to have a USDOT number. Find a moving company’s USDOT number in order to evaluate it better
  2. Read the reviews of a company you are researching. If the reviews are mainly good, you know that you’ll be in good hands with that company. However, if you stumble upon a company with horrible reviews, move on to a better one. Listen to what the customers have to say.
  3. See if there is enough information on their website and consider talking to the movers in person. If they seem professional and serious, that’s a good sign.

Avoid the risks of choosing cheap movers by being careful and informed. Don’t give them an opportunity to scam you because you’re uninformed.

Hiring Cheap Movers

In conclusion, the risks of hiring cheap movers could cost you a lot more than paying a regularly priced company. It is important that you think about the safety of your belongings. The low price might be a sign that the movers aren’t capable of executing the relocation as well as you hope. For that reason, your better option is saving your money on other things. After all, if you want the job done well, you need to pay for it. So, consider that when you’re thinking of hiring a cheap moving company. Don’t let the low price trick you, be careful and do your research.

How to handle moving delays in NYC?

How to handle moving delays in NYC, one of the busiest cities in the world? If you like to be well prepared surely you thought about all unpredictable situations that may occur during your move. Moving to your new living space is a very complicated matter and a moving delay is maybe the worst thing that can happen. With so many factors involved in one moving operation, when it comes to moving delays in NYC, there are many things you should do. Continue reading “How to handle moving delays in NYC?”

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