MOVING IS HARD ENOUGH
DON'T BRING EXTRA TROUBLE
by Asa Aarons
WHEN
IT COMES to the joy of moving, most consumers agree: There is no joy in
moving.
Those on a budget worry about the cost of the move.The
affluent worry that their property will be damaged.
It's hard to make a move pleasurable. But there are
ways you can make it less troublesome.
 Most
moves are made between June 1 and Sept. 30, according to the American Moving
and Storage Association www.moving.org,
an Alexandria , Va.based trade association. So expect to pay a summer premium
if you're planning to move in the next few months.
Obtain
at least three estimates. Interstate moves are priced according to the weight
of the household goods and the distance moved. Local moves are based on
hourly charges.
A
binding estimate is a guaranteed price. A nonbinding estimate can change.
Avoid
movers that give unrealistically low estimates. They usually "remember"
extra charges once your shipment has been loaded on the truck and the doors
have been padloked.
Make
sure the estimator is aware of unusual factors at your new home, including
steep stairs, narrow driveways and elevators.
Once
you narrow your choice of movers, check their complaint histories with the
Better Business Bureau. You can also see if a company is a member of the
AMSA by going to its Web site or calling (703) 683-7410.
Decide
if you want to pack everything yourself, have the moving company pack for
you or any combination of the two. Some movers will not accept liability
for damages on items you pack yourself.
Most
companies offer three types of loss or damage coverage: limited liability
at a rate of 60 cents per pound; added valuation - items are valued at their
replacement cost, less depreciation, and full value protection - covers
the full cost of repair or damage without deduction for depreciation.
Most
companies expect payment in full, usually in cash, before your goods are
unloaded at your destination.
Asa Aarons is a consumer
reporter on
WNBC-TV, Channel 4, News
Ask Asa, P.O. Box 3310, New York, N.Y. 10116
E-mail: DNconsumer@aol.com
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