JOHN PALMER MOVING & STORAGE

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

OUR FAQS

What should I consider when choosing a moving company?

When selecting a moving company, consider factors such as reputation, experience, services offered, pricing, insurance coverage, and customer reviews. Look for a company that is licensed, insured, and has a proven track record of delivering reliable and professional service.

What types of moving services do you offer?

Our moving services typically include local and long-distance moves, residential and commercial moves, packing and unpacking services, furniture disassembly and reassembly, specialty item handling, storage solutions, and more. We offer customizable packages to meet your specific needs and budget.

Is my belongings covered by insurance during the move?

Yes, your belongings are covered by basic valuation coverage provided by us, the moving company. However, it's essential to understand the extent of coverage and consider purchasing additional moving valuation protection for added peace of mind. Our team will walk you through your coverage options and help you choose the best selection for your needs.

How do I get started?

The first step is to arrange for a free, in-house estimate with one of our estimators. We recommend that you set up your appointment at least 30 days before your planned move date. You want to have time to review your estimate as well as secure the dates you need. Moves are booked on a first-come, first-serve basis. Dates that were available yesterday – may not be available next week.

How are employees hired and screened?

Our hiring process is very extensive. All applicants are screened and background checked, in addition to checking driving history and other related factors. For every 20+ interviews, we may accept 1 employee. This has allowed us to shape our team, and maintain a focus on quality.

How big are the trucks?

Most of our fleet consists of trucks that are 24’ and 26′ straight trucks. Our smaller trucks are either 16’ or 20’ box trucks. Please make sure that there is a place for us to park the moving truck(s) or let us know of any concerns ahead of time. We base the size of truck you need off of the number of items you will be moving.

Is there anything that you don't move?

We move most things, but there are certain things that we cannot move for you. These items include pets, plants, ammunition, medications, aerosols and fuel. It is critical that these items are not packed in with your other household belongings.

How do I pay for my move? When do I pay?

We require a $200 deposit upon booking your local move. On local moves, the balance is due upon completion of the delivery. For long distance moves, all charges are due prior to unloading at destination. If it is your company that is paying for your move, or you company moving…you’ll just need to provide us with that information so we can bill directly.

Can you provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?

Yes, we are fully insured and can provide a certificate of insurance to your building, based on their requirements.

Should I tip the movers or buy them lunch?

To ensure that your gratitude reaches the right hands, we recommend paying your tips directly to the moving team. If you decide to provide a tip to your movers, on moving day, have cash or a check ready, and hand it directly to the movers. By doing so, you eliminate any confusion or miscommunication about the distribution of tips within the moving company. For more information on tipping etiquette and how to calculate your movers’ tip, visit our article on Do I Need To Tip My Movers? We do remind our movers that they should not ask, hint, or in any way make you feel uncomfortable.

What if John Palmer Moving & Storage breaks something?

We have an extremely low rate of claims for our industry. About 2 – 3%. We have a professional claims process with experienced adjusters who follow state and federal claims guidelines. Please bear in mind that how much you are compensated for a lost or damaged item depends on the “valuation” that you put on your goods when you do your paperwork at the beginning of the move. The standard is $.60 / pound, as governed by the law.

How do items get damaged during moving?

Even the most careful, efficient movers may cause damage.  This can be a result of mishandling or accidentally dropping an item – Or also a result of the type of item itself.  The act of moving furniture and boxes, loading them into a truck, driving, unloading, and repositioning can be especially prone to damage for the items noted below:

  • Furniture made of particleboard, engineered wood or paper laminate finish.  Brands like IKEA, Bush, etc. are not meant to be moved once assembled and can be damaged with a simple movement.
  • Floor lamps (tall standing lamps) from brands like Target and Wal-mart are prone to damage if they are unable to be disassembled.
  • Boxes packed by owner (PBO’s) may be prone to damage – Adhere to packing best practices for weight and items!
  • Liquids packed into boxes – Take extra care to conceal liquids and keep separate from other items.
  • Electronics should be packed in original manufacturer packaging when possible.
  • Internal mechanical components of items. For example; Elliptical, Treadmills, Workout Equipment
  • Internal components of washers and dryers. Be sure to order transit bolts for front load washers!

Our priority is always our customer, and we have a clear process in place for handling and rectifying damage.  However, having the above information also allows for accurate expectations and careful planning!

I would like to save money on this move. What can I do to keep the price low?

Since local moves are charged by the hour, anything that you do, we don’t have to complete and translates into time and cost savings. We are happy to do a full-service move and complete them frequently. However, if you are trying to control costs;

  • Be completely packed before we get there.
  • Take apart your stereo and computer and pack them in boxes.
  • Take apart your bed frame.
  • Move boxes near the door.
  • Complete some moving of household items on your own.

We’re happy to complete everything required, but if you want to reduce costs we will work on a custom affordable plan for you!

How can I get in touch with you if I have any questions along the way?

We know that moving can be a stressful experience, so we pride ourselves on being there when you need us. Call us during regular business hours or email us anytime. We’re glad to help you with any questions or concerns that may arise during the process. Our fully-trained support staff provides you with answers to all of your moving questions. On the day of your move, you will have access to your moving teams as they are in transit.

How much will my move really cost?

Local moves are charged by the hour, and long-distance moves are charged by weight and distance. Determining the number of hours a local move will take is estimated based on the information you have provided over the phone or during the onsite survey.  While we do our best to estimate, actual times may vary.

Please understand it is in our best interest, and yours, to have accurate information to determine an accurate schedule. We do not “lowball” our estimate and then present you with an unexpectedly high bill on moving day. Our moving consultants will take you through the process, utilize their industry experience, quote a competitive hourly rate, try their best to earn your business.  Our movers will do a quick, efficient job.  Please be upfront and forthcoming about your inventory moving, all unique items, or any special circumstances during the planning phases of your move. Most of these factors do not increase the cost of your move with “extras” but may impact the time required.

Is John Palmer Moving & Storage privately owned?

Yes. Our business is privately owned and operated. Every representative and mover is an employee of John Palmer Moving & Storage. Mike Bavuso is the President & CEO and also owns and operates Big Foot Moving & Storage, Inc. of Acton, MA.

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