Consumer Services

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If moving a long distance, always search the cost-of-living differential. What will it cost to live in the new area in comparison to your current location? If moving with a company, ask your employer if they offer a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

Just like a pre-approved mortgage, you should know what you can afford to spend on rent.

What is your rent budget per month after all expenses? (See our budget worksheet)

If you are moving for a new job above a certain distance, you can deduct some expenses. Search "tax deductions for moving expenses in Canada".

We try to make the service comparable with our comprehensive pricing model. Moving, however, is an intangible service, and some Movers are better than others. (See comprehensive pricing doc)

Pricing Based on Move Type:

1. • • Long-distance moves: Charged by weight.
     • International moves: Charged by volume.
     • Local moves: Charged by time.

For long-distance or international moves, show the estimator (moving consultant) everything you plan to move. This is necessary for determining the correct weight or volume, which affects the final price. Final charges are based on what is moving so if you do not show the mover something the charges will change.

Does the Mover explain everything to you in detail? Do they provide moving options? Do they have good coverage on both ends? Are they members of CAM, IAM or FIDI?

No, Movers offer a range of services. Packing services, storage, vehicle moving, special crating and disassembly of gym equipment or electronics, hot tubs and more. Movers have a large selection of services they can offer - just ask.

Yes, we can organize Pet relocations. Just reach out to us at info@customizedmoving.com and we will take care of Buster.

Yes, you can pack your own goods. It is called PBO "packed by owner", and may not be covered under insurance. Movers offer PBO, partial packing or full packing. Unpacking full packs or partial packed goods are covered by their protection programs replacement value protection (RVP). If they pack, they are responsible; if you pack, they are not responsible.

Everything that is not in a box is wrapped in large moving pads. If you are moving overseas, the Mover wraps everything in what is called international wrap - like big presents.

Transit Time Guide (TTG): Movers provide an estimated delivery window based on shipment size and distance. This window typically excludes weekends and holidays.​

Why a TTG?

• Shared Shipments: Long-haul moving trucks often carry multiple shipments, which can affect delivery timelines.​
• Driver Regulations: Truck drivers must adhere to strict safety regulations, including limits on driving hours, monitored by electronic logs.​
• Potential Delays: Factors like weather, mechanical issues, and additional pickups can impact delivery schedules.​

You can reduce your cost by reducing the goods you are shipping or by packing items yourself. For smaller moves, some Movers will allow you to bring the goods to their warehouse and pick it up at their warehouse at the destination (dock to dock). On local moves, the more organized you are, the better. You may also want to move small items on your own. Moving off season can help as well, avoiding peak season (June, July and August).

Moving can be a fun adventure, but it comes with some concerns:

• Do you have commitment from people to help you on both sides?
• Do you have pads and equipment to move the goods?
• Can you park a container at origin and destination?
• Can you load a container or truck properly?
• Can you lift heavy items?
• Can you drive a truck?

Make sure to shop and get all the prices upfront, including millage charges, insurance, drop-off fees, equipment rentals, etc. In some cases, there isn't a big difference between doing it yourself and using a Mover. Movers also have alternative shipping services like freight services and dock to dock services that may cost less than renting a truck or container.

Anything corrosive, explosive or flammable is not allowed. Ask your Mover for a list of non-admissible items. Be careful not to pack them or try to sneak them on the truck; in the event of an accident or fire, the insurance will not cover your goods if these items are found in the shipment.

On long distance moves, the driver does an inventory of all your goods and then gives you what is called a "bingo sheet" on the delivery end and you check off all the items.

For long distance moves, yes. The Movers will disassemble beds, put all the items in the proper rooms, and setup the beds. Movers will not place items back in pantries or shelves.

Tipping is at your discretion, but very much appreciated by the Movers.

It is important you take out replacement value protection (RVP) on long distance moves. If anything is damaged or lost, the Mover will repair or replace the item. If you do not take out the protection, your goods are “released” and only covered for a very small amount. Ask the Mover for a full explanation of your options. You must claim for the damages and go through a process, so don't throw anything out. Contact your move manager for help.