Moving Resources for Moving to Columbus, OH

Loading Day Guide

You’ve made it through the planning and packing, now it’s time for the real work – loading and delivering your goods safely to your new home! It is important that you make yourself available for the entire day on both your scheduled load and delivery day. While your driver and their helpers will do the actual physical labor, your assistance will be required during several aspects of these days. Loading Day Prior to placing your household effects onto the moving van, your driver will prepare a detailed Inventory and Condition Report of the items you are moving. Every item in your shipment, whether it’s an individual carton or piece of furniture, will be inventoried with numbered and color-coded labels. Your driver will also ask you to sign the inventory, as your acknowledgment that the pieces indicated were loaded and as verification of their condition prior to moving. The driver will also sign the form and will present you with a copy. Be sure to keep this inventory with you for use at your new home. The driver will also require your signature on the bill of lading. This is the contract by which you authorize us to transport your possessions and agree to pay for those moving services.

The bill of lading serves to confirm the moving services performed, pickup and delivery schedules, and the valuation and protection plan that you’ve selected. If you cannot be present at the time of loading, you’ll need to arrange for a responsible person to act as your agent in signing both the bill of lading and the inventory list. Make sure you’ve provided both your driver and your relocation coordinator with phone numbers where you can be contacted during transit to your new residence. This will make scheduling delivery easier for everyone involved! Delivery Day Your driver will be in contact with you a minimum of 24 hours prior to the expected arrival time to confirm actual delivery arrangements.

When your shipment arrives, you can help expedite the unloading process by making sure the crew has clear access to the home and by having a room-by-room floor plan in mind. As items are unloaded you can let the driver and movers know where you want things placed in your home. You should check items off the Customer Check-Off Sheet as they’re brought in, noting their condition. If an item appears to have been damaged during transport or is missing, immediately make a note of this on the inventory including the driver’s copies, and notify your move coordinator. The driver and moving crew will also reassemble any items at this time that they may have disassembled at origin. Minimal unpacking (mattresses) is typically done at this time as well. Unpacking means taking the items out of their shipping boxes and placing them on the nearest flat surface, it does not mean putting them away. If you require to unpack and put away service, please let your relocation coordinator know prior to delivery so arrangements can be made. Extra charges do apply.

Moving Day Guide

Delivery Day Guide

Moving With Children

Moving Plants

Generally, we do not move household plants on the moving van. However, if it is absolutely necessary that you move them, here are some guidelines that should be followed:

• Some house plants are susceptible to shock when moving.
• In Fahrenheit, temperatures below 35 or above 95 for more than an hour can kill many plants.
• Most house plants can survive for seven to 10 days without water with little harm, but they should be moist when placed in cartons.
• House plants can tolerate darkness for up to a week if other conditions are favorable.
• When first exposing plants to light after prolonged darkness, do so gradually to avoid wilting and sun-scald.
• For convenience and space-saving, you can take cuttings of your favorite plant (if possible).
• Most cuttings can survive for several days if kept in a plastic bag containing damp vermiculite, peat moss, or perlite.

Moving Electronics and Appliances

Air Conditioners: Consult your authorized dealer or service man on your particular model. Some sealed units should be bolted down. Dryers (electric or gas): Check with your service man. Motors may need to be checked and secured. Freezers: These appliances must be completely defrosted one or two days prior to moving. They should be dried and aired to avoid a musty odor. Safety of contents cannot be guaranteed, so it is best to empty your freezer and plan a meal that will use up perishable contents. Check with your service man to be sure the motor is bolted, if necessary. Refrigerators: Defrost and thoroughly dry your refrigerator before moving. This is very important. The doors should be left open for several hours to air after defrosting. All pans, trays, crispers, shelves, or removable parts should be removed and wrapped individually. Has your refrigerator been serviced? The motor may have to be bolted down before moving. Do not plug it in at the new home until it has been unbolted. Sewing Machines: These do not need special servicing for local moving.

For long distances, the driver should stuff paper in and around the machine and place paper between the lid and base to prevent rubbing. Stoves: Stoves must be disconnected prior to pickup. Be sure gas lines are shut tightly and capped. For electric ranges, removable coils (and all other removable parts) must be packed separately. Television Sets: Some TV sets require that they be checked before moving. Some color TVs must be serviced both before and after moving. Television antennas should be removed from rooftops and disassembled (if necessary). Washers: Washers must be serviced by an authorized service man. Motors should be checked and secured, tumbler action protected, and fastened in place.

Electronics Care

If the original carton and packing materials are no longer available, you may need to create them prior to moving day. If the item can fit in another sturdy carton, line it with plenty of newsprint paper or styrofoam before packing. Seal securely and mark “Extremely Fragile” on the carton. When packing a personal computer, printer, scanner, or other equipment:

• Detach all connecting wires, removable paper feeders/holders from all hardware, and wrap monitors
• Remove all ink and toner cartridges
• Label all cables and wires for easy re-assembly
• Back up all computer files
• Pack speakers in well-cushioned dish pack boxes – any large or unusually heavy speakers will simply be padded and placed on the truck
• consult your user manuals for any additional instructions or file storage recommendations
• Label cords and cables so you’ll know which goes where, and pack them in the same box as the electronic equipment they go with.

Moving a CD Player

Before moving your CD player, there are certain procedures to follow which will protect your system from mechanical failure or damage due to normal physical shock which occurs during transport. If the following tips are used prior to moving, your CD Player should arrive safely at the destination.

• Remember to remove all CDs from your player before packing.
• Make sure all CDs are back in their cases.
• If you don’t have the owner’s manual, draw a diagram of the wiring PRIOR TO disconnection.
• Some CD players have a transport screw under the unit. Tighten it before packing.
• Remove any stacker or multi-play cartridges prior to packing and wrapping them individually.
• Close CD trays.
• The best way to move your CD player is in the original box with the original packing. In the event that you do not have the original box and/or packing, use a box big enough to cover the entire unit with enough room for packing material. The packing material should snugly fill the excess room in the box so that the unit will not move around. Plastic bubble sheets make ideal packing material. Try to stay away from using newspapers. Seal the box with reliable packing tape. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage can provide you with packing containers and materials if needed.
• If you have a remote control, be sure to wrap it separately, but pack it in the same box with your CD player. All wiring should also go in the box with the CD player.

Glossary of Terms

ACCESSORIAL (ADDITIONAL) SERVICES – services such as packing, appliance servicing, unpacking, or piano stair carry that you request to be performed (or are necessary because of landlord requirements or other special circumstances). Charges for these services are in addition to the transportation charges.

ADVANCED CHARGES – charges for services not performed by the mover but instead by a professional, craftsman, or other third parties at your request. The charges for these services are paid for by the mover and added to your bill of lading charges.

AGENT – a local moving company authorized to act on behalf of a larger, national company.

APPLIANCE SERVICE – preparation of major electrical appliances to make them safe for shipment.

BILL OF LADING – the receipt for your goods and the contract for their transportation. It is your responsibility to understand the bill of lading before you sign it. If you do not agree with something on the bill of lading, do not sign it until you are satisfied that it is correct. The bill of lading is an important document. Don’t lose or misplace your copy.

BINDING / NON-BINDING ESTIMATE – a binding estimate is an agreement made in advance with the mover that guarantees the total cost of the move based on the quantities and services shown on the estimate. A non-binding estimate is the carrier’s approximation of the cost based on the estimated weight of the shipment and the accessorial services requested. A non-binding estimate is not binding on the carrier and the final charges will be based on the actual weight and tariff provisions in effect.

CARRIER – the mover providing transportation of your household goods.

C.O.D. – transportation for an individual shipper for which payment is required at the time of delivery at the destination residence (or warehouse).

EXPEDITED SERVICE – an agreement with the mover to perform transportation by a set date in exchange for charges based on a higher minimum weight.

FLIGHT CHARGE – an extra charge for carrying items up or down flights of stairs.

GUARANTEED PICKUP AND DELIVERY SERVICE – an additional level of service whereby dates of service are guaranteed, with the mover proving reimbursement for delays. This premium service is often subject to minimum weight requirements.

HIGH-VALUE ARTICLE – items included in a shipment that are valued at more than $100 per pound. INVENTORY – the detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the number and condition of each item. LINE HAUL CHARGES – charges for the vehicle transportation portion of your move. These charges apply in addition to the additional service charges.

LONG CARRY – an added charge for carrying articles at excessive distances between the mover’s vehicle and your residence.

ORDER FOR SERVICE – the document authorizing the mover to transport your household goods.

ORDER (BILL OF LADING)

NUMBER – the number used to identify and track your shipment.

PEAK SEASON RATES – higher linehaul charges that are applicable during the summer months.

PICKUP AND DELIVERY CHARGES – separate transportation charges applicable for transporting your shipment between the SIT warehouse and your residence.

SHUTTLE SERVICE – use of a smaller vehicle to provide service to residences that are not accessible to the mover’s normal, larger line haul equipment.

STORAGE-IN-TRANSIT (SIT) – temporary warehouse storage of your shipment pending further transportation, for example, if your new home isn’t quite ready to occupy. You must specifically request SIT service, which may not exceed a total of 90 days of storage, and you will be responsible for the added charges for SIT service, as well as the warehouse handling and final delivery charges.

TARIFF – the mover’s required, published price list of rules, regulations, rates, and charges for the performance of interstate moving services.

VALUATION – the degree of “worth” of the shipment. The valuation charge compensates the mover for assuming a greater degree of liability than that provided for in the base transportation charges.

WAREHOUSE HANDLING – an additional charge applicable each time SIT service is provided. This charge compensates the mover for the physical placement and removal of items within the warehouse.

Packing Tips

Careful packing is one of the most important aspects of your move. HOW TO PACK BOXESCushion. Use good wrapping and cushioning material. NEVER USE NEWSPAPERS! Newspaper ink has a tendency to rub off on everything it touches and can be almost impossible to remove from items like fine china. Use “newsprint” (unprinted newspaper) as cushioning material. You can purchase newsprint from E.E. Ward Moving & Storage or from many other local sources such as mini storage or office supply stores. The amount of newsprint you use depends on the items being packed. Assemble boxes. Invert the box, and fold in flaps. Place one or two long pieces of plastic packing tape across the center seam, and one piece along each side seam. Do not cover any printing. Make a bottom cushion. Put loosely crumpled unprinted newsprint in carton bottom to a depth of approximately four inches. Wrapping. Each item should be individually wrapped–with crushed paper between items as needed. Wrap all fragile, breakable items in paper. (Not necessary for soft items like bedding, etc.) This not only protects the item but protects other items from it. Wrapping also helps things fit snugly in the box and prevents them from shifting. Use unprinted newsprint for most items, and tissue paper for very fragile things. Pack large and heavy items first. Pack smaller items next. Use these to fill in spaces around larger items. Fill all empty spaces with small items or crumpled paper. Leave no gaps in the carton. This helps make it crush-proof. Periodically lift the carton to check the weight – the box should not be too heavy for one person to lift comfortably. Make a top cushion. Leave 1/4 to 1/2 inch of space at the top of the carton. Fill this space with crumpled paper. Sealing – Labeling. When closed, the carton’s top or sides should neither bulge nor sag. Tape top seams securely. Label boxes clearly. Write your name, northAmerican contract number, the room to which the box should go in your new home, and a general description/inventory of contents. Write “fragile” only if items within are truly fragile. (Otherwise, good loading decisions will be impossible.) Mark “unpack first” on boxes containing items you’ll need right away in your new home. You may want to pack a special ”unpack first” box with items such as toilet paper, paper plates, napkins, plastic ware, light bulbs, bar soap, towels, etc. We can also provide wardrobe cartons to hang your clothes in, so they don’t get wrinkled during your move. PACKING OF PARTICULAR ITEMS

• Plates, Saucers, Flat China: Wrap individually and then bundle three or four together. Stand on end in a carton. Never lay flat. Use the larger items as the bottom layer and place crumpled paper as cushioning between each layer.
• Bowls: Odd-shaped items and bowls, individually wrapped, should constitute the upper layers. Place on edge in a carton with the bottom facing up.
• Cups and Glasses: Like bowls, cups and glasses should go on top, rim down, and individually wrapped.
• Glassware and Crystal: Always individually wrap as a top layer. Never put one piece inside another. If items are particularly fragile, pack first in a smaller carton, then in a large one with cushioning all around.
• Books: Pack upright with open edges and bound ends alternating. If any have fragile covers, wrap them in the paper.
• Clothing: Hanging items should go into wardrobe cartons. Clothing may stay in dressers if dressers are sturdy. All other folded clothing should be packed in medium (3.0 cu. ft.) cartons.
• Food: Boxed dry food should be packed in medium (3.0 cu. ft.) cartons with openings taped shut to prevent spillage. Jars or canned goods should be packed in book (1.5 cu. ft.) cartons with all jars wrapped and cushioned. Never pack or move perishable or frozen food.
• Hats: If in a hat box, pack in a larger carton. If not, loosely stuff with crushed paper and pack in the smallest carton either alone or with other hats.
• Lamps: Lamp bases should be wrapped, cushioned, and packed in Dish-Pack cartons. Lampshades should be packed singly in appropriate-sized cartons. Be careful not to put too much paper in the lampshade carton as they dent easily. Cushion loosely.
• Flowers: Dry flowers should be packed alone in an appropriate-sized carton loosely cushioned with paper. Live plants will probably not survive on a long-distance move and the mover cannot accept responsibility.
• Stereos, Radios, etc.: Components and small electronics should be well wrapped and cushioned in either medium (3.0 cu. ft.) or large (4.5 cu. ft.) cartons. Large console stereo and televisions should not be packed. They will be padded by the driver and moved as furniture.
• Mirrors, Marble Tops, Glass Tops, Pictures: All mirrors, pictures, marble, or glass tops should be packed in picture-mirror cartons unless they are very small. The small items may be wrapped and packed in dish-pack cartons on edge. Very large marble or glass tops should be created by professional packers. Their weight makes them impractical to be moved by the carton.

HIGH-VALUE ITEMS All stocks, bonds, currency, jewelry, furs, stamps, coins, securities, negotiables, insurance policies, and valuable papers should not be packed for transit in the van. Either transport these items yourself or make arrangements with your banker for their transfer. Some helpful hints:

• Begin by Following a Timetable! Make sure you allow yourself enough time to pack properly for your move – this is not a time to rush!
• If you decide to do your own packing or partial packing, remember that the moving company is not liable for damage to the contents of boxes packed by the customer. However, if there is obvious exterior damage on packing up your goods, make a note on the inventory sheet of your shipment, these items may be covered under an exception to the rule.
• If you decide to do your own packing, get packing supplies and start collecting strong boxes suitable for moving. Complete all packing by moving day. You will be busy enough on moving day to have to worry about packing. Packing room by room will help you stay organized and will make unpacking easier on the other end. Establish work areas in each room.
• First, pack items you won’t need right away. Start with your less-used serving dishes, seasonal items, and small appliances. Next, tackle your large serving bowls, tablecloths, and specialty pots and pans.
• Keep your everyday dishes for the last week before moving. You may even want to consider buying some disposable plates, cups, and utensils for those last few nights when everything is packed away. Wait and pack things you’ll use right up to moving day last.
• Items such as articles stored in the basement, garage, or attic are also ideal for packing first as garages and storage sheds typically take the longest to prepare for moving because they are often filled with odd-shaped, sharp, or heavy items that require special care to pack correctly. We recommend starting by safely disposing of items that cannot be shipped, like pesticides, fertilizers, oil, and gas – a complete list can be found in our list of Items That Cannot Be Shipped.
• As you move through your home packing and you complete each room, sort packed boxes by weight (light, medium, heavy). This makes loading the moving van easier and quicker.

If you require more detailed information about how to pack, please ask your E.E. Ward representative for a copy of north Americans Home to Home Better Move Planner as a guide, which is available for free just for asking!