LET'S GET MOVING

Things to Know

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.

Appliances
Most refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other electrical or mechanical appliances require special servicing to assure a safe move. Any moving parts — such as motors, washer drums, icemakers, and the pick up arm on a record player should be secured for shipment. Gas appliances need to be serviced and disconnected by your local gas utility.

It's your responsibility to take care of these preparations yourself, to hire an appropriate technician, or request that Fife make the arrangements for you at an additional charge.

To receive a brochure on Moving Appliances & Other Home Furnishings, e-mail us at info@fifemove.com.

Packing Tips
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.

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.

Non-Allowable Items
It is best to make other arrangements for the transfer of certain negotiable items or articles of extraordinary value. Of course, one option is to take them with you.

Cash
Jewelry
Personal Papers
Documents pertaining to the move
Stamp or Coin Collection

Evidence of Debt
Deed, Wills or other such valuables
Family photographs
Securities
Furs

To guard against damage that can be caused by combustion, leakage, or explosion, dispose of these items:

Aerosol cans of all kinds
Ammunition
Bleach
Chemicals
Chemistry sets
Cleaning fluids
Cologne
Nail polish remover
Fire extinguisher
Fireworks
Flammable goods
Tanks of compressed gas
(for diving, gas grills)

Fertilizers with Ammonium Nitrate
Food in glass jars
Frozen food
Furniture polish
Gasoline
Kerosene
Lighter fluid
Matches
Oil based paints
Perfume
Starter fuel
Flares

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

Tips on Moving with Kids
Prepare them in advance for the move. Give them time to adjust to the idea.

Answer all their questions. Explain the reasons for the move and address specific concerns your children have about the move.

Permit children to participate in the preparations 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.

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