Excellence In State to State Moving

As you prepare for your move, you probably have "a million things on your mind." To minimize your stress at this hectic time, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions, along with their answers. Some of the questions require more specific information, in which case your Blue Bird / Atlas moving counselor is the person to ask. Make sure that your moving counselor answers these and any other questions you may have.

LOADING/DELIVERY

What is a "load spread"?

When your move is first booked, it is difficult to estimate exactly when the driver will arrive at your home. We will give you a range of 1-4 days during which the driver will arrive. You will receive notification one day in advance of the day that the driver will arrive at your home to load your belongings.

Is there anything I should keep with me and NOT load on the truck?

Be sure to carry enough clothing, medications, toiletries, etc. to last from the load date until the last day of the delivery spread. We do suggest that you keep small valuables such as jewelry, family photographs and videos with you during the move. Atlas also recommends that you pack a survival box.

Can I transport my car?

It is possible to transport your automobile with the rest of your belongings. Please consult your moving counselor for more details.

Does Atlas provide motorcycle transportation?

Blue Bird / Atlas offers uncrated motorcycle transportation through strategic partners.  Contact our office for more information.

Is there anything that I can’t have moved?

Plants and pets, for obvious reasons, can’t be loaded on the truck. There are several household items that are considered hazardous materials and cannot be moved with your other belongings. These include aerosols, gas cans, paints, varnish, corrosives, batteries, matches, nail polish and remover, ammunition, explosives, cleaning fluids and detergents. Please consult your moving counselor if you think you have anything else that may not be safe to transport on the truck.

When will my belongings be delivered?

Before your belongings are loaded on the truck, you and your moving counselor should have agreed on a delivery spread of 2-17 days based on shipment size, distance to destination and time of year. You will receive notification of delivery one day prior to delivery. You, or someone you have designated on your Atlas paperwork to take your place, must be present to accept delivery and pay all charges. In the event that no one is available, your shipment could be placed in storage at an additional charge. Be sure that you give your moving counselor telephone numbers where you can be reached throughout the move.

Once I get to my new home, whom can I contact in the local area? Who do I call for unpacking services?

Your moving counselor will provide you with the name of the Atlas agent who has been assigned as your "destination agent". You should have the name of the agency and their phone number. However, we always suggest you call your customer service person at the agent you first spoke with.

PACKING/PREPARATION

Can I pack anything in the drawers of my dresser or desk?

Yes, but all loose items (like coins, jewelry, pictures or perfumes) should be packed in boxes to prevent damage during transport. Non-fragile, light-weight items such as clothing and linens can be left in dresser drawers.

What should I do to prepare to move my waterbed?

Waterbeds need to be drained completely. Fiber-filled waterbeds need to be professionally vacuum-drained in advance of your move date. Your moving counselor can arrange for a professional to perform these services.

Should anything be done to my appliances to prepare them for the move?

Appliances such as washers, dryers and refrigerators must be disconnected, and the washer must have a stabilizer installed. Again, your moving counselor can arrange for an appropriate professional to perform these services.

How will Atlas protect my upholstered furniture?

Atlas uses a special procedure called stretch-wrap. It is a heavy, clear plastic wrap that protects your furniture from being soiled.

COST

What are my charges based on?

For an interstate move, your charges are based on the weight of your shipment, together with the mileage between origin and destination. At the time of your estimate, your moving counselor will be happy to explain the itemized charges on your estimate, which would include any packing, crating, uncrating and transit protection.

How can I obtain an estimate of moving costs?

To receive an estimate, fill out the on-line inquiry form and Blue Bird Transfer will contact you to set up an appointment for your FREE consultation.

What is the difference between a binding and non-binding estimate?

A non-binding estimate requires you to pay based on the actual weight of your shipment and the actual services performed. There is no limit. A binding estimate is a price guaranteed not to be exceeded unless additional services are performed that are not specifically listed on your paperwork. You must complete additional paperwork for any items to be added to your shipment or to have additional services provided.

Where do "extra charges" come from?

Do you have an attic, crawl space or storage shed? Often these storage areas are forgotten when working up an estimate and remembered only when it is time to load the truck. The cost of moving additional items stored in these places would have to be added to the estimate. To avoid this situation, be sure you have shown all of these areas to your moving counselor at the time of the estimate.

What if the truck can’t park up close to the house?

If we are not able to park the truck close to an entrance to your home, you may be charged for a shuttle. Often tree branches grow low over roadways not allowing for the height of a truck. Narrow streets and driveways can restrict accessibility to your home, making it necessary for the driver and helpers to use another vehicle to deliver your goods. Use of a shuttle truck is an additional charge.

What payment options are available?

Most moves require payment in advance of the reservation date or upon delivery by either cash, certified check or money order. Other payment options such as credit card may be pre-arranged. Discuss these options with your moving counselor to select the one that works best for you. In the event that your employer is paying for the move, the employer may pre-arrange to be billed via invoice. Whatever payment option best meets your needs, be sure that all the arrangements are made before your belongings are packed and loaded.

TRANSIT PROTECTION

What if something is damaged while it is being shipped?

Occasionally, some minor damage occurs during shipping. We have several options to protect your belongings. Review the coverage plans with your moving counselor to select the plan that best fits your needs. A valuation of 60 cents per pound per article is provided at no charge, but we recommend that a higher valuation be declared to adequately cover your belongings in the event of damage. As an example, suppose your new television purchased for $500, weighing 50 pounds, is damaged beyond repair. Minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound per article would entitle you to $30 maximum compensation. Atlas does offer additional protection plans that will more adequately fit your needs. Ask your moving counselor about Extra Care Protection/Customer Transit Protection.

If you need to file a claim, you can do so on-line, or call our office.

What is Extra Care Protection/Customer Transit Protection?

Extra Care Protection (ECP), in the U.S., or Customer Transit Protection in Canada, provides for the full cost of repair, or the full cost of replacement of any household item that may be damaged or lost during your move, up to the amount that you declare to be the total value of your belongings. Minimum valuation under this plan is $5.00 times the weight of your shipment. Replacement, if necessary, is at today’s prices, not at depreciated cost. This full replacement protection includes many matched sets and pairs, such as candlesticks, lamps and chairs.