What Is a Certificate of Insurance for Moving

Posted on 08/22/201808/10/2023 by BigApple

To move to a different house, you need to gather a lot of paperwork. You might have heard of a certificate of insurance for moving, but you probably have no idea what it really is. Don’t worry, as you are not the only one!

A lot of people have misconceptions about this paper and think that it does not make a big difference whether or not you have it. Why this is not true, you are about to find out, because Big Apple Movers always have your back!

What Exactly Is a Certificate of Insurance for Moving?

Since there is a big probability you do not know what exactly a certificate of insurance is, we feel obligated to explain the significance of this piece of paper. Perhaps, after finding out everything about it, you might realize why it is so necessary and, dare we say, mandatory.

When moving to New York, your first task should be to hire reputable and, most importantly, insured movers. Insurance protects you and your furniture from any possible damage that may arise. Having that in mind, you should know that a lot of property managers will request to see a written proof that you have chosen an insured moving company before they let you move into the building.

At this juncture, the certificate of insurance assumes significance. Despite its perceived complexity, a certificate of insurance is a legal document issued by the insurance provider of the moving company. It is imperative that all parties involved in the moving process are adequately insured.

When Do You Need to Show a Certificate of Insurance?

To be fair, to have this certificate is not mandatory in all situations. However, if you do not have it when the property manager asks for it, you will not be able to move in. Moreover, a certificate of insurance is always needed when moving into an urban area, which all NYC boroughs are. Therefore, if you wish to avoid any delays when moving, it is wise to get this piece of paper in due time.

Furthermore, to ascertain whether the presentation of the aforementioned certificate is mandatory, there is a straightforward approach to determine this. You may inquire with the property manager of your prospective residence regarding their policy on the matter. This method is the most reliable and expeditious means of confirming the necessity of this documentation.

What Information Is On a Certificate of Insurance?

In order for a certificate to be valid, it needs to have some specific information written on it. The mentioned pieces of information are:

A certificate of insurance for moving should state that your movers have a license to operate in that area.
This certificate will state the address of your new home.
Finally, it should list all the different scenarios for which you might need to use the insurance coverage.

Slowly, you should be getting a grasp on how necessary this piece of paper is. When making all the moving estimates – related, make sure to include this certificate. Trust us, having it can save your life (and your relocation)!

Why Do Property Managers Ask to See a Certificate?

Even flies on the wall know that relocation is risky, and oftentimes, damaging. During a relocation, a lot of things could go wrong, which would result in the damage to your items. However, besides your items, a part of the building could also get damaged. Obviously, a building is not your property, so someone needs to be held accountable if the damage does arise.

A certificate of insurance effectively resolves this issue, absolving both yourself and the property manager of any liability. In the event of any mishap, only your movers will be held accountable for any associated expenses. It is important to note that minor damages such as scratches on walls are not uncommon during the moving process, given the challenging nature of the task at hand.

How to Get a Certificate of Insurance for Moving?

While obtaining some other NYC building permits may be a long process, getting a certificate of insurance is not! Cheer up, as this is good news! All you have to do is have a talk with your moving coordinator, and they will do all the necessary things for getting this paper. They will contact the building management for some pieces of information, however, this is none of your worries. All you have to do is sit back and relax.

To ensure a smooth and efficient moving process, we kindly request that you make your request for a certificate in a timely manner. Ideally, it would be greatly appreciated if you could inform our movers of your need for this certificate at the time of booking. However, we understand that circumstances may arise, and we are happy to accommodate requests made up to several days prior to the move. We kindly advise against waiting until the last minute to make this request, as it may cause unnecessary delays and complications.

How To File A Moving Insurance

Hiring reliable movers is one of the best things you can do for your relocation. Movers have the right skills, are efficient, and will save you time, energy, and even money when they take care of your belongings. However, accidents do happen even to the best movers, and you may end up with a few things stolen or damaged.

Hopefully, this won’t happen, but knowing the process of how to file a moving insurance claim will make it easier for you to do it just right.

Take Photos of Items

Prior to the relocation process and prior to securely packing items into moving boxes, it is recommended to capture photographic evidence of the items. This photographic documentation serves as compelling evidence of the items’ condition prior to the relocation and can greatly enhance the likelihood of a successful claim.

Make an Inventory List

Make a list of all the things you are moving. The movers will also make a list, but it’s a good idea to have your own to prevent errors. Make a few copies of the list, keep one for yourself, and give one to the movers.

Having an inventory list makes it easier to detect any lost items. So, make sure you know how to create a moving inventory list and keep it close just in case.

Take Photos of the Damage

Just like you took photos of the items before the relocation, it is time to take photos once again. Having before and after photos will make your claim strong. Remember not to throw away the damaged items after you take photos, as the moving company might ask you for physical evidence. If the damage is done to your home, take photos of the damaged parts.

Keep Track of Every Conversation

This is a useful thing to do during your relocation. Keep track of each conversation you have with your movers. Write down the date, who you spoke to, and what was agreed. You will be able to create a timeline in this way, and your moving claim will take less to complete.

Also, you should save not only conversations, but also receipts, documents, and any paperwork you received from the movers. If you send originals when filing a moving claim, make a hard copy just in case you have everything with you.

How Moving Expenses Deduction Works

Posted on 08/13/201808/11/2023 by BigApple

The new Tax Law states that from 2018, moving expenses deduction will only be available to some military personnel. However, if you have relocated in the years prior to 2018, we have some good news for you! In some cases, Federal Tax Law allows you to get a refund on certain moving expenses if your relocation was business-related.

Therefore, if you have started a new job, relocated your office or started working for the same employer but on some other location, you are eligible for moving expenses deduction. Unfortunately, not all expenses are deductible, and they depend on a couple of criteria.

What Are Moving Expenses?

Moving expenses are defined as the costs incurred for packing and shipping personal belongings to a new location. These expenses also encompass storage fees and transportation costs, including fuel expenses. It is widely acknowledged that moving expenses can accumulate to a significant amount.

Hence, if the relocation is job-related, it is advisable to explore the possibility of obtaining reimbursement. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and ensure compliance with the necessary requirements to qualify for a deduction.

The Distance Requirements for Moving Expenses Deduction

Wouldn`t it be perfect if there were no limitations, and you could get a deduction for any and every relocation? Unfortunately, that is not the way life works. There are some criteria which must be met if you are to get a deduction. And, they start with the distance traveled.

If your knowledgeable office movers in NYC have relocated you in the same city, we are sorry to inform you that you will not be eligible for a deduction. The rule is that your new place of work must be 50 miles farther than your old house. Fifty miles is not a small distance, by no means. Therefore, if you think, or know, that there are 50 and more miles from your job and your last home, feel free to ask for a deduction.

Also, when measuring the mileage, the IRS will make sure you use the shortest route. They want to be sure you are doing everything by the book.

The Time Requirements

Beware, because there are a lot of small restrictions here. If you do not meet even one of them, you stop being a candidate for moving cost deduction.

To qualify for moving expenses deduction, you must be working for at least 12 months. There is no requirement for you to work for only one employer. Thus, if the need arises, you can divide your time between a couple of them.
You must be a full-time worker for at least 39 weeks during that first year.
Luckily, there are no requirements to how many days and hours you work, as long as you fulfill the norm of your industry.

Big Apple Movers advise you to check everything before you start thinking about moving cost deduction. These rules cannot be bent, and there is no way of getting around them.

Deductible Moving Expenses?

Luckily, there is not a shortage of moving expenses that can be deducted. However, there is a difference between short distance moving and moving interstate, or even abroad. If you had a DIY move and short distance move, and you have transported your furniture by yourself, you can get a deduction for gas, oil and even highway tolls. When accumulated, these expenses can produce a significant amount of money, so it would be good to get some of that money back. On the other hand, if you had a long distance move, you could get a reimbursement for the plane tickets, and the best thing is that this deduction applies to the whole family.

Moreover, if there was a need for you to rent cheap storage NYC, you should know that you can also be deducted for these expenses, as well. However, there is a limit, since this deduction only applies to periods of up to 30 days. Therefore, if you had to use a storage unit for more than a month, you will not be able to deduct it from your moving expense.

How and When Can You Claim a Deduction?

Moving expenses deduction is a unique one. Why is this the case? Namely, you can claim this deduction even before you are sure that you satisfy all of the requirements. However, it is not the most recommendable course of action. If at the end of those twelve months, you have failed to meet one or more requirements, you will have to return the deduction. Have in mind that most taxpayers usually fail to meet the criteria, and they have to return the money once the 12-month period ends.

To claim a deduction is easy. All you have to do is report your expenses on IRS Form 3903. Attach that form to the tax return for the year when you moved, and the process is over. If it turns out you have to return the deduction, you can do it in two ways.

For your next tax return, make sure to include the original amount of your moving expenses deduction.
Calculate your tax without including the moving cost deduction.

If you are not good with taxes, it is never a bad idea to seek professional help. The IRS will not be lenient if you make any mistakes with your taxes. Avoid trouble whenever you can!

If you think you could qualify for moving expenses deduction, you should give it a try. However, be careful, as you might have to return everything at the end of the year.

What Is A Moving Broker

Posted on 07/23/201808/02/2023 by BigApple

When it comes to the relocation process, you need all the help you can get. No matter where this help is coming from, it is always more than welcome. One thing we all know can aid us greatly in the relocation process are reputable movers. Moreover, not only can they help us, but they are also necessary for any moving to go smoothly.

And, if you don’t have enough time to put in hours of research into finding reliable movers, you can always rely on a moving broker. In case this is the first time you hear of this term, stick with us. Let Big Apple Movers teach you what exactly a moving broker is, and why you should hire one the next time you move!

What Is a Moving Broker?

First things first, you need to be familiar with the term ‘moving broker’ before you decide you need one. A moving broker is a middleman between you and all the available moving companies on the market.

He or she is a professional, who can give you an estimate and find the best possible moving company for you. Whether you need residential or office moving experts, you can rest assured your broker will be able to find the best one for you.

Moreover, they work for a fee and are usually cheaper than moving companies. Don`t get us wrong. Moving brokers do not equal moving companies. A broker’s job is to find a suitable moving company for your needs.

However, as nothing in life is perfect, the same applies to these relocation professionals. There are certain things you should be wary about when looking for your broker.

What Are the Risks Associated with Moving Brokers?

Hiring a broker comes with a certain amount of risks. For starters, there is a chance that the broker`s estimate might not be suitable and that it will not be accepted by the moving companies. Usually, this is because the broker`s estimate is too low. In case this happens, you would be left without a moving company on your moving day. Can you imagine a worse scenario?

Furthermore, you need to check whether your moving brokers are licensed and insured! Just like a lot of moving scams and fraudulent companies have resurfaced lately, so have unlicensed moving brokers. So, how can you ensure that a moving broker you are interested in is indeed legit?

Look for a moving broker that is registered with the FMCSA.
Ask them to show you a list of the moving companies they usually work with.
Moreover, ask to see the written agreements they have with those movers.

Once you ensure that the coast is clear and that your moving brokers are who they advertise they are, you can proceed with hiring them.

Moving Broker vs Moving Company

While both options offer services related to moving, they have distinct roles and functions. Understanding the difference between a moving broker and a moving company can help you make an informed choice that suits your needs and preferences.

Moving Broker

A moving broker is an intermediary or middleman that acts as a link between you, the customer, and various moving companies. Instead of physically handling the moving process, a broker facilitates the connection between you and a moving company that can best accommodate your needs. Here’s how a moving broker works:

Estimates and Options: When you approach a moving broker, they gather information about your move, such as the distance, size of the move, and specific requirements. Based on this information, they provide you with estimates from different moving companies within their network.
Connections: The broker has established relationships with a network of moving companies. They match your requirements with a suitable mover from their pool of partners.
Negotiations: The broker negotiates the terms of the move on your behalf, including pricing and services. They aim to secure the best deal for you.
Coordination: Once you’ve chosen a moving company, the broker coordinates the details of the move, including scheduling and logistics.

Moving Company

A moving company is a business that specializes in providing moving services. When you hire a moving company, they handle various aspects of the move directly, from packing and loading to transportation and unloading. Here’s what to expect when working with a moving company:

Direct Service: A moving company is responsible for all aspects of the move. They have their own team of movers and equipment.
Customized Service: You work directly with the moving company to outline your requirements and preferences for the move.
Responsibility: The moving company is accountable for the entire process, ensuring that your belongings are handled safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

In case you weren’t paying close attention, let us sum it up for you. A moving broker is a person who conducts its business between two parties – a client and moving companies. They are a good way to save money in the Big Apple since their fees are affordable. However, even they don`t come without risks, which is why you should make sure they possess the necessary licenses.

How to evaluate a good local moving company?

Posted on 07/06/2018 by BigApple

A relocation process is an important event in everybody’s life. It is something you need to think through and plan carefully, however you are doing it. If you insist on doing it yourself, it is important to think about every small detail of the move, so you avoid mistakes and possible loss and damage. However, there is a safer option, that doesn’t have to be necessarily more expensive. If you think about it, hiring professional movers means paying seemingly more, but you can avoid all the stress and risks. There is only one thing – you need to choose reliable and efficient movers. How to find them? We prepared a guide on how to evaluate a good local moving company and have a stress-free move. Continue reading “How to evaluate a good local moving company?”

How To Label Moving Boxes Like A Pro

Posted on 06/25/201808/01/2023 by BigApple

The act of labeling moving boxes is a pivotal component of a prosperous relocation. Appropriately labeled boxes enhance the overall organization and efficiency of the process, guaranteeing that your possessions are treated with care and arrive securely at your new residence.

How To Label Moving Boxes

This comprehensive guide will lead you through the step-by-step process of labeling moving boxes, offering valuable insights to simplify your move and circumvent undue stress.

Gather Supplies

Before you begin packing, ensure you have all the necessary supplies for labeling your moving boxes. High-quality markers or labels are essential to ensure that your labels don’t smudge or fade during transit. Packing tape will secure the labels in place, preventing them from getting lost or damaged during the move.

Additionally, consider using colored stickers or markers for your color-coding system, as they are easy to spot and help movers quickly identify the destination room for each box. A notebook or spreadsheet will help you create an inventory of your boxes, providing a detailed record of your belongings to facilitate unpacking and organization at your new home.

Create a Color-Coding System

The implementation of a color-coding system can greatly streamline the unpacking and setup process of a new home. To begin, designate a unique color for each room or category within the household. For example, blue may be assigned to the kitchen, red to the living room, and green to the bedroom.

This color-coding can be applied directly to the boxes through the use of colored stickers or markers indicating the corresponding room category. Prior to the move, it is recommended to communicate this system to the movers to facilitate the placement of boxes in their respective rooms, even if they are unfamiliar with the layout of the new home.

Label Clearly and Descriptively

When it comes to labeling moving boxes, it is imperative to prioritize clarity. It is recommended to inscribe a concise yet informative label on the top and at least one side of each box, specifying the room it is intended for and providing a general description of its contents.

To facilitate the unpacking process and locate crucial items with ease, it is advisable to provide detailed descriptions. Instead of using a broad label such as “Kitchen Items,” it is recommended to use more specific labels such as “Kitchen – Pots and Pans” or “Living Room – Books and DVDs.” It is best to avoid using labels that are vague, such as “Miscellaneous” or “Misc.,” as they can cause confusion during the unpacking process.

Prioritize Fragile Items

During a move, it is imperative to exercise special attention and care when handling fragile items. To ensure the protection of delicate belongings, it is recommended to utilize special labels that clearly indicate their fragile nature. Pre-made “Fragile” stickers are readily available, or alternatively, one may opt to create their own using bright-colored tape. Furthermore, it is advised to prominently display the word “Fragile” in large, bold letters on all sides of the box containing fragile items.

This visual cue serves to alert movers to handle these boxes with extra care, thereby reducing the risk of breakage during transit. Additionally, it is prudent to consider using arrows to indicate which side of the box should be kept upright to safeguard fragile items from potential damage.

Maintain an Inventory

Maintaining a comprehensive inventory of all labeled moving boxes is a valuable practice to facilitate the unpacking process. To this end, it is recommended to create a list in a notebook or digital spreadsheet while packing, which should include box numbers, corresponding room labels, and a brief description of the contents.

It may also be prudent to include an additional column for special notes or to indicate any high-value items in each box. This inventory will serve as a practical reference upon arrival at the new residence, enabling swift and efficient retrieval of specific items without the need to open every box.

General Rules For Labeling Moving Boxes

Label on Multiple Sides: To ensure visibility from any angle, place labels on at least two sides of each box. This will make it easier for movers to identify the contents even when boxes are stacked or placed in tight spaces.

Use Large Fonts: Write the labels in large, clear fonts to enhance readability. Avoid using cursive or elaborate handwriting, as it may be difficult to decipher quickly, especially in a fast-paced moving environment.

Seal Labels with Clear Tape: After writing your labels, secure them with clear packing tape to protect them from smudging or rubbing off during the move. This extra step will ensure that your labels remain legible throughout the entire journey.

Mark “Open First” Boxes: For boxes containing critical items like toiletries, a change of clothes, or important documents, write “Open First” on the label. This will help you quickly identify the boxes that require immediate access upon arrival.

Avoid Overpacking Boxes: While it may be tempting to cram as much as possible into each box, avoid overpacking them. Heavy boxes can be difficult to handle and increase the risk of items getting damaged. Instead, distribute the weight evenly among the boxes.

Label Dismantled Furniture Parts: If you’re disassembling furniture for the move, place small parts (screws, bolts, etc.) in sealable bags and label them clearly. Attach these bags to the furniture itself or place them in a designated “Hardware” box to prevent losing essential pieces.

Keep an Unpacking Plan: Before moving, create a basic unpacking plan that outlines which rooms you want to tackle first. Include a color-coded legend for your boxes, so you know where each box should go immediately upon arrival at your new home.

Add “This Side Up” Arrows: For boxes with items that should remain upright during the move, draw “This Side Up” arrows to indicate the correct orientation. This will help prevent any spills or damage to delicate belongings.

Conclusion

Labeling boxes when you move is important. It can make things easier and less stressful. You can do this by getting the right supplies, using colors to help you, writing clear labels, being careful with fragile things, and keeping track of what you have. This will help you pack and unpack faster and keep your things safe while you move.

How to Pick the Right Size Storage Unit

Posted on 06/18/201808/07/2023 by BigApple

While some may assume that selecting an appropriate storage unit size is a straightforward task, the reality is that numerous individuals commit errors in the process. Given the diverse range of storage unit types and sizes available, it is crucial to identify the most suitable option for your specific requirements. As such, it is prudent to engage in careful planning and thoughtful consideration prior to making a final decision on the appropriate storage unit size.

That way you will avoid potential space and money issues and have a safe storage unit for your items. Check out our guide and learn how to choose a good size for your storage facility.

What Do You Need a Storage Unit For?

The optimal size of a warehouse is contingent upon its intended use. It is therefore imperative to establish the fundamental purpose of the prospective storage facility. One potential application is the storage of items within the unit, with infrequent access for an extended period, such as several months or until the next relocation.

In this case, you don’t need to think much about the size and how you are going to pack the things inside. In this case, you maybe need a short-term storage. The unit can be a smaller one, and not cost a lot. The other scenario is actually using the items inside the unit regularly.

In this case, you need to think about the size of the unit and the way you store the items inside. Also, you may need a long-term storage. All of that in order to make it easier for you to go through the unit if you need it and find the things you stored inside.

Count and Measure the Items

During the moving process, it would be useful on many levels to make the inventory list of your items. You can use this list while packing, to check the number of boxes after the move, and to see what items go to the storage unit. While making the list, make sure to label the boxes and measure both the boxes and items that are not stored in boxes.

This way you will know how much space you need and therefore choose the right size storage unit.

Pay Attention to Special Items

When selecting the appropriate storage unit size, it is important to consider any items that may require special accommodations. This includes irregularly-shaped items that cannot be boxed, as well as items that are oversized or fragile. It is imperative to handle these items with care and, if necessary, utilize specialized shelving to ensure their safekeeping.

Don’t Take a Unit Way to Small or Way Too Big

When choosing the right size storage unit, it is important not to go too big or too small. If you choose a unit that is too big, you will end up paying more money. Furthermore, you will store the things you need and create more and more clutter over time.

However, a storage unit that is way too small, will not allow air to go around the unit and therefore maybe damage your things. You can also damage your items if you put too many of them in a small place. That’s why choosing the right size storage unit is important. However, if you are not sure, it is always better to take a slightly bigger storage unit, just in case.

What Types of Storage Units Can You Find?

In terms of the size you can find three basic types of storage units:

Small units – these storage units are usually 5×5 or 5×10. They can replace a home closet for example. These storage units are ideal for storing some basic smaller thing like books, toys, some boxes, kitchen tools, maybe a ski equipment set or a bicycle. A 5×10 storage unit can even hold some furniture, like chairs, a mattress, a coffee table, etc.
Medium size units – these you can find in sizes 7×10, or 10×10. Along with all the smaller items, you can store a lot more. Furniture, boxes, mattresses, etc.
Large units – these units go 10×15, 10×20 or even 10×30. They can store your whole home if you need them to. Large units like this are not commonly used for home storage, but for commercial storage or some special equipment.

Who Can Help You When Choosing the Size of a Storage

As long as you have done this many times and you don’t need help, we advise contacting NYC storage professionals. This way you will be sure that you made the right decision when it comes to choosing the right size storage unit, packing and sorting things out. The people who work there are trained and have enough experience to give you the best advice.

They will show you the units and help you decide which one suits your needs the best and provide you with any other additional moving services. This way you will be sure that you get the best value for the money you pay.

Other Helpful Tips

Moving truck to measure the space. Beside just measuring the boxes and your items, a moving truck that you used to relocate can help you too. It can ba reference for the size of a unit you need. However, a moving truck is usually slightly bigger than the storage unit necessary for the same number of items stored inside.
Visit the unit before you choose. It is very important to see the unit yourself before you pay or sign anything. Go and check the condition of the exact unit a storage company offers you – not the ‘example’ one. This way you can check if there is any damage to the unit, if the electricity works, is it dry, etc.