The customer must be present during all phases of the move.

Any item that is screwed, nailed or bolted down (for example, affixed to the walls or ceiling) must be taken down by the customer if he/she wishes to ship it.

At time of delivery, check off all items from inventory. Note any visible damage to household goods or property on the inventory forms.

When loading is complete and prior to signing the papers, make a final inspection of your home inside and out to verify everything to go is loaded. Don't forget to look behind doors and in closets, the basement, storage buildings, garage and yard.

The customer needs to identify an area, such as a closet, where all items NOT to be packed or transported are to be placed one day prior to packer's arrival.

Trash cans should be cleaned out by the customer.

Customer must remove items from attics.

Make sure that you agree with inventory at origin and that all items have been inventoried.

Please let us know if your present home or new home cannot be accessed by large moving vans.

Payment/Pricing

The Department of Transportation requires strict compliance with provisions set forth in tariffs published by movers. The tariffs govern all costs of moving and services performed by all moving companies.

To keep down the cost, dispose of unnecessary or hard to move items before you move. Reconsider taking appliances, motor vehicles (boats, campers, motorcycles, etc.). If you have been wanting a new refrigerator, now may be the time to sell your old one.

When comparing estimates, remember the cheapest company won't necessarily do the best job. If one firm's estimate is lower than the others, then find out why. Are the services and the mover's experience equivalent?

Ask to see a copy of the mover's ICC (Interstate Commerce Commission) Annual Performance Report. Interstate movers are required to provide information about past performance and complaint handling procedures. They are also required to provide you with a copy of an ICC publication about your moving rights and responsibilities.

To receive a brochure on Answers to Questions About Moving or a copy of our ICC Annual Performance Report, e-mail us at info@fifemove.com.

If You Do The Packing

Fife Moving provides both packing and unpacking services. If you decide to do your own packing, you automatically assume a major portion of the responsibility for the success of the move. All packing must be completed by the evening before moving day...Only the things you will need that night and the next morning should be left for last minute packing.

Things you will need:

• Various sizes of sturdy cartons with lids (flaps) that can be completely closed
• White paper, tissue paper, or newsprint (unprinted newspaper)
• Old newspaper (ink can rub off, so be careful how you use newspaper when packing)
• Packing tape
• Scissors or a sharp knife
• Felt tip marker for marking the boxes
• Notebook and pencil for listing boxes as they are packed
• Labels or stickers

Cartons, unprinted newsprint, tissue paper, "bubble pack," and tape can be purchased from Fife Moving at a nominal charge as listed in the Household Goods Carriers' Tariff.

To receive a brochure on Doing Your Own Packing, e-mail us at info@fifemove.com.

Tips on Moving with Kids

It is best to prepare children in advance for the move so that they have time to adjust to the idea. Your child may have alot of questions. Explain the reason for the move and address the specific concerns that your child brings up. It is always a good idea to permit children to participate in the preparation for the move.

The most important factor that determines how well a child copes with a move is the parent's attitude. If Mom and Dad are excited about the move and treat it as a big adventure, then the children will be far more likely to accept the situation in a positive manner.

To receive a brochure on Moving With Children, e-mail us at info@fifemove.com.

Pets

If you think moving is stressful, imagine how your pet feels. Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, or any other kind of pet, preplanning is extremely important.

Pets can become nervous when faced with an unfamiliar situation. The better prepared you are, the more at ease your pet will be. Pets cannot be carried on the moving van. Dogs, cats, and other pets can usually be transported in the family vehicle. If this is not convenient, Fife will be glad to suggest alternate ways to ship your pet safely.

There are many state and local regulations when it comes to transporting your pet. You should contact your local or destination's government agency responsible for animal health and safety.

To receive a brochure on Moving With Pets, e-mail us at info@fifemove.com.

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