FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Browse below to review the answers to some of the most common questions that we receive. We are here to help you with any additional questions you may have as well!
When should I call a moving company?
The earlier, the better. Although the actual truck assignment may not be made until a few days before your move, it’s a good idea to give your moving company four to six weeks notice, if possible. The more lead time you can give, the more likely we will be able to meet your preferred delivery schedule. All moving companies require flexibility with alternate pickup and delivery dates, for any standard delivery.
Anchors Aweigh aspires to meet your preferred dates or the nearest possible alternatives. You will be notified in advance of the loading date for your goods and of the estimated date of arrival.
If your pickup and delivery dates are critical, due to a lease expiration or real estate closing, you may choose an extra-cost service which will enable us to accommodate a more precise schedule. You should discuss your specific pickup and delivery requirements with Anchors Aweigh Managers who can advise you regarding the types and costs of services available.
When is the best time to move?
If you have a choice, most moving companies suggest you select a time other than summer, the end of the month or the end-of-year holidays. The heaviest demands are placed on trucks, equipment,and personnel during these periods.
However, Anchors Aweigh believes you should move when it is most convenient for you. Factors involving in the decision may include:
whether the move must be made immediately
moving children during the school term
separation of the family while the move is under way
Does Anchors Aweigh require a deposit to book a move?
We don’t require an upfront down payment or deposit to book in town moves. If you’re moving across state lines, we will produce a flat rate quote. Fifty percent of that quote must be paid upfront, and the second half must be paid at job completion.
How do I receive an estimate?
Anchors Aweigh will need to conduct a free visual survey of all of the items you plan to move, virtually or by visiting your space. We will determine the estimate based on the amount of time it will take us to complete the move. An accurate estimate cannot be calculated without a visual survey of the items to be moved.
Keep in mind that estimates (household goods surveys) are only guidelines.
How is the cost of my move determined?
If you’re moving in-town or an hour or so away, we estimate cost based on the time it will take our professional movers to complete your relocation. Our only extra cost beyond our hourly rate is a truck charge that is pro-rated based upon mileage.
Which Payment Methods Do We Accept?
Payment for your shipment can be made by one of the following methods:
cash, traveler’s check, money order or cashier’s check, and major credit cards (American Express® Card, Discover® Card, Visa®, and MasterCard®).
For some residential moves, we are required to ask for your planned form of payment at the time we prepare and/or present our quote.
When can I expect to be charged for my move?
All charges are required to be paid after your shipment is unloaded at its final destination. If you’re paying with a credit card, an authorization will be requested up to two days prior to your scheduled load date.
How long does it take to move?
Calculating how long a move will take depends on many factors, such as the time of year, weather conditions, size of your shipment, time required to load and unload, and the direction and distance your shipment is traveling.
We recommend that you reach out as soon as you have an estimate of when you would like the move to take place. We can then advise you as to how long we calculate the move will take in hours/days.
My move date changed. What should I do?
Contact Anchors Aweigh as soon as you can if your move date/s has/have changed. We can process any changes to your plan and discuss updates; Keep in mind your estimate may change depending on the dates you selected.
Can my possessions be stored temporarily?
If you are unable to take immediate possession of your new residence, your belongings can be stored in a local storage facility. We can organize drop off within the storage unit to make sure that your belongs are safe.
Am I protected against loss or damage while my goods are in transit?
Yes! Anchors Aweigh can provide our COI for a 1 Million dollar General Liability Policy and a 2 Million dollar umbrella policy in case you’re planning a commercial move.
What type of packing/unpacking services do you offer?
At the time of your move, you can choose to pack as much or as little as you want. We can pack the entire shipment, pack only a portion of your belongings or you can pack everything yourself. Anchors Aweigh is here to personalize your move process and make this transition as smooth as possible.
If you’re interested in packing services, you can discuss options with your salesperson during your in-home estimate.
Will my furnishings stay safe and clean?
Anchors Aweigh professional crews pre-pad wrap every piece of furniture before loading them in the trucks. We also band or shrink wrap items that require extra protection such as TV monitors and mirrors.
I need some advice on how to pack my belongings; can Anchors Aweigh Relocation Services help?
If you chose to delcine our packing services, you can certainly pack your belongings yourself. We ask that’s you pack boxes fully and leave as little empty space as possible to prevent box failure. Though the boxes should be full, they should not be heavy enough to stress the bottom of the box. Box failure may lead to belongings falling out of the bottom of the box.
*Three strips of tape (one lengthwise and two widthwise) on the bottom will ensure the box remains closed.