iMOVE Concierge
- Send an email: support@imove.com
- Call: +1 (855) 755-1220
Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm EST
Full Service Move
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How do I know if I can trust my mover?Reputable Moving companies are reputable moving organizations, such as the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA), and have certifications such as the ProMover designation. The ProMover certification is a consumer protection and certification program designed to provide consumers with an easy way to separate reputable, professional movers from con artists. The ProMover program takes the worry and the hassle out of the moving by helping consumers identify quality professional movers who subscribe to our goals and by providing them with information and assistance with everything from finding a mover, to getting an estimate and packing tips, to understanding valuation and insurance.
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Is it important I get a moving estimate prior to selecting a mover?It is recommended to get 3 in-home estimates prior to selecting a mover, to ensure you know your options and all parties are on the same page.
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When is the best time to hire a professional mover?The busiest times for moving companies are during the summer months, May 15 - September 15. At the end of these months, the volume of shipments is extremely heavy. This is the case for all professional moving companies.
Take all the factors into consideration when deciding on the best time for you to move. If you have some flexibility in your schedule, provide the moving company with a five-day window for loading your shipment. This will allow the individuals who schedule the drivers and crew members greater flexibility when scheduling your move. If possible, be flexible with your destination timeframe as well. Keep in mind that you most likely are not the only shipment on the truck. If you stay flexible, it should make a difference. -
When should I begin calling professional movers for estimates?Try to provide the moving companies with as much notice as possible, especially if you are moving during the busy season. Six weeks from the actual move date is not too early for estimators to come into your home to complete what they refer to as a "visual survey of your household goods shipment." Add even more time to make a decision if you are obligated by your employer to submit estimates for approval. Try to decide which mover you will use four weeks from your actual load day. Call the mover to confirm your booking and schedule your packing, loading and delivery dates. This timeframe can be shortened in the off-peak season which is September 15 through May 15.
Hire Professionals
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When is the best time to hire a professional mover?The busiest times for moving companies are during the summer months, May 15 - September 15. At the end of these months, the volume of shipments is extremely heavy. This is the case for all professional moving companies. Take all the factors into consideration when deciding on the best time for you to move. If you have some flexibility in your schedule, provide the moving company with a five-day window for loading your shipment. This will allow the individuals who schedule the drivers and crew members greater flexibility when scheduling your move. If possible, be flexible with your destination timeframe as well. Keep in mind that you most likely are not the only shipment on the truck. If you stay flexible, it should make a difference.
Housing
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Is it necessary to use a Real Estate Agent when considering to purchase a new home?It is highly suggested that you use a Real Estate Agent. Even though you can, one doesn't generally cut their own hair or do their own surgery... why should finding a home be any different? Regardless of rental or purchase... this is the single largest financial decision a person makes that year.
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What is included in an offer to purchase real estate?In an offer to purchase real estate, you include not only the price you are willing to pay but other details of the purchase as well. This includes how you intend to finance the home, your down payment, who pays what closing costs, what inspections are performed, timetables, whether personal property is included in the purchase, terms of cancellation, any repairs you want to be performed, which professional services will be used, when you get physical possession of the property, and how to settle disputes should they occur.
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What is the difference between a co-op and a condo?Co-ops are not considered real property. When you buy into a co-op, you are buying shares in a corporation, which allows you access to a unit on the property. Buying a condo means you own the real estate.
Inventory
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How is the cost of my shipment calculated?If you are moving to a new state, the charges are based on the weight of your shipment and mileage. These are referred to as the transportation charges. There are a variety of different charges that could appear on your estimate, so be sure to ask the moving company to explain each item charge for you. Some of the additional charges that may appear include packing, crating, valuation or coverage, bulky article charge for oversized items and extra labor. Again, be certain you understand these charges so that you can accurately compare the estimates you receive.
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What is a binding estimate?A binding estimate relates to moves to different states in the US. It is a type of estimate that specifies, in advance, the precise cost of the move based on the services requested or deemed necessary at the time of the estimate. If additional services are requested or required at either origin or destination, the total cost will increase.
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What is a non-binding estimate?A non-binding estimate relates to moves to different states in the US. With this type of estimate, charges will be based on charges you according to the actual weight of your shipment and the actual cost of the services that are performed. You will still go though the estimating process to determine what your shipment may cost.
To verify the weight of your shipment, the driver will weigh his trailer prior to loading your shipment. Once your shipment is on board, the driver will weigh his trailer again. All other charges will be calculated at your origin address. If there are any additional charges that are incurred during the delivery process, the driver will provide you with the additional cost. This is a rare event, but it may occur. -
What is an inventory?The driver will usually inventory your shipment as he or she loads it (but it's not required by law). When completed, the inventory provides a detailed, descriptive listing of your household goods and the condition of each item when received by the mover.
Be sure that everything listed on the inventory is correct. This is not always the easiest task, as you will find things written on the inventory like PBO, which means packed by owner. The contents of this carton can't and won't be listed because the driver is not able to see inside each and every box. You will also find CP on a line item in the inventory. This means Carrier Packed container. These are two important listings.
Labor
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Are there any items that my movers won't move?Please refer to your mover's list of Prohibited or Restricted items to confirm. However, most prohibit the shipment of hazardous materials such as explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives, and radioactive materials are not allowed for transport. Examples include:
-Nail polish remover
-Paints and paint thinners
-Lighter fluid
-Gasoline
-Fireworks
-Oxygen bottles
-Propane cylinders
-Automotive repair and maintenance chemicals
-Radio-pharmaceuticals
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How can I protect my valuables on moving day?Things will happen very fast once packing and loading begins, make sure you take any valuables/important papers and things you don't want to end up in boxes and put them in a separate area out of the way the day before packing or the move. Transport items of personal importance or sentimental value with you, such as:
-Cash
-Collections (i.e., coins)
-Family photos
-Important personal papers (i.e., deeds, wills)
-Negotiable papers (i.e., bonds, stocks, certificates)
-Jewelry
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How do I ensure that the movers have accounted for all my belongings on moving day?Do a thorough walk-through with the driver before and after loading and unloading to make sure you are on the same page and that everything has been taken care of.
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What if there is a change in delivery schedule?It is important to be flexible during the moving process. To ensure communication during any unforeseen circumstances, make sure the driver has your mobile number and you have the driver's full name and truck number.
Moving Supplies
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Can I pack and move my plants?Most moving companies will not take your plants. The stress and heat of being inside of the moving trailer usually cause them to die. Many states do not allow the entry of plants while other states will admit plants under certain conditions. There are some states that have no regulations at all. Be sure to understand your state's regulations prior to moving the plants in your own vehicle.
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Can I pack anything in the drawers of my dresser or desk?All loose items must be packed in boxes to prevent loss or damage. It is recommended that you pack all the items and leave the drawers empty.
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How can I stay organized and on schedule if I am packing my belongings myself?-Use a calendar to plan what to pack and when. (It takes longer than you might think!)
-Begin with items in storage areas such as the attic -- these are often in storage boxes anyway and more or less ready to roll. Next, pack out of season items such as winter coats.
-Pack room by room to stay organized and get more done.
-Designate a work area in each room being packed so you always know where supplies are.
-Sort packed boxes not only by room, but by weight to make loading the truck easier.
-Packed cartons should weigh no more than 50 lbs. It's tempting to stuff more in to maximize space, but you still have to be able to safely lift the box!
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How do I prepare my appliances for moving?Appliances such as washers, dryers, and refrigerators must be disconnected, and the washer must have a stabilizer installed. Again, your estimator can help you understand how to these items are serviced. All local moving companies have business relationships with local service providers that handle this type of service. Be sure you know who your mover will be using as you will need to let these people into your home to provide the service.
Real Estate Agent
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How can I sell my home faster?-De-clutter. Cleaner apartments show better. Consider staging the apartment if it's vacant.
-Remove anything denominational or that could be perceived to have any sort of bias. Even family photos should be put away. Make the place look welcoming to everyone.
-Be realistic to the market and trust the comparative data with regards to pricing. People often over value their home for emotional reasons. The correct price, like with anything, is what one person is willing to pay for it.
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How do you determine your offer price when selling a home?Determining your offer price is a three-step process. First, you look at recent sales of similar properties to come up with a price range. Then, you analyze additional data, such as the condition of the home, improvements made to the property, current market conditions, and the circumstances of the seller. This will help you settle on a price you think would be fair to pay for the home. Finally, depending on your negotiating style, you adjust your "fair" price and come up with what you want to put in your offer.
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Should I be home when my real estate agent is showing the house to potential buyers?Homebuyers will feel like intruders if you are home when they visit, and they might not be as receptive toward viewing your home. Visit the local coffee house, yogurt shop, or take the kids to the local park. If you absolutely cannot leave, try to remain in an out of the way area of the house and do not move from room to room. Do not volunteer any information, but answer any questions the agent may ask.
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Should I try to "time the market" when buying a home?One problem with attempting to time your purchase to the business cycle is that no one can accurately predict the future. Another challenge is that interest rates are generally higher during a depressed market and income may not be keeping up. For that reason, fewer people can qualify for a home purchase than in more prosperous times.
Rental Trucks
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Can I bring my pets into the rental truck?Please refer to the rental truck company's policy to confirm. Generally, pets are allowed in the front of rental units; but be sure they are properly secured. Dogs should be harnessed and leashed or in a crate. Cats should be crated as well.
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What sizes of rental trucks are available?Rental trucks are often available in many different sizes. Typically, you can rent anywhere from a standard size van to a 26 cubic-foot truck.
Schools
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How can make additional effort to ensure I am making the right decision?When you have narrowed your search down to 2-3 schools, bring your child to visit each one. This will allow you to get an overall feel first-hand.
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How does greatschools.org ratings work?According to greatschools.org, the GreatSchools Summary Rating appears at the top of a school's profile and provides an overall snapshot of school quality based on how well a school prepares all its students for postsecondary success‚ college or career. The Summary Rating calculation is based on five of the school's themed ratings (the Test Score Rating, Student or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating and Advanced Courses Rating) and flags for discipline and attendance disparities at a school.
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What are some questions to ask when choosing a school?1. Student/teacher ratio
2. Student culture
3. Safety and environment
4. Homework level
5. Does the school meet my basic needs?
6. What are the school's expectations for their students?
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Who can I ask for additional insight on school finding decisions?When moving with kids, you should first consult your real estate agent, who can provide insightful knowlege on potential neighborhoods and the schools you would have to choose from. Private schools offer more flexibility in the location of your home, but if you'd like your child to attend a public school, you may be limited to certain boundaries.
Temporary Housing
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Does the lease have to start at the beginning of the month?No, the lease start date can usually being any time during the month.
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How many people can stay in a corporate apartment?By law, the number of persons is determined by the number of bedrooms, and the count is based on 2 persons per room. For example for a 1 bedroom the limit would be 2 people for a two bedroom the limit would be 4 people. You are allowed to have guest to visit and stay over, this rule applies to residence who will be living in the apartment for the full lease term.
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Is there a minimum lease term?A furnished apartment requires a minimum 30 day stay.
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Should I need to extend, can I extend for a few days or do I have to extend for a full month?You can extend your housing for the number of days needed it does not require a full month.
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What is included in a furnished apartment?Furnishings, housewares (dishes, pots and pans, linen for the bedroom and baht room, etc.) utilities (some utility caps may apply), basic cable and wireless internet.
Lump Sum
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When will I receive my Lump Sum payment?Among the list of Menu items is a Claim Your Lump Sum option, which you can click and follow the steps to request your Lump Sum.
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How do I get my Lump Sum?Among the list of Menu items is a Claim Your Lump Sum option, which you can click and follow the steps to request your Lump Sum.
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What does tax assistance mean?A Lump Sum payment from your company is considered income to you, therefore income taxes will apply. If your policy includes tax assistance, then income taxes associated with the Lump Sum payment will be made on your behalf and you will receive the total dollar amount of your Lump Sum (a.k.a. grossed up). If your policy does not include tax assistance, then you will receive the Lump Sum less applicable taxes withheld, which means the actual amount you receive will be less than the stated Lump Sum amount.
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Do I need to keep my receipts?For the Lump Sum payment, you don't need to retain or submit receipts.