- When should I call Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage for a local move?
- When should I call Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage for a long distance move?
- How long does a free in-home estimate take?
- Why do I need Insurance?
- What do I need to do during the move?
- Is there anything you will not move?
- Can Dale J. Cook handle my vehicle?
- Can I pack myself?
- How long does it take to pack a home?
- Can I leave items in drawers?
- What are a binding, non-binding and not to exceed estimate?
When should I call Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage for a local move? If you need to move locally today or tomorrow, there is a chance that we could handle your move. However, if you require free moving quotes, you should call Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage about 7 days to 21 days in advance of your move. Please keep in mind that summer is traditionally the busy season for moving companies and that it is very helpful to give us as much notice as possible. We are one of Charleston's oldest moving companies and have a proven track record of working with our customers to accommodate their preferred moving date whenever possible.
When should I call Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage for a long distance move? If you need to move long distance or international, the more time you can allow the better. Normally a 7 to 21 day notice can be accommodated except in the busy season. From May 15th to September 15th the volume of moves is extremely heavy and this is the case for most professional moving companies. It is imperative that if you are moving during this time, you will need to contact a mover at least 21-30 days in advance when the volume of shipments is extremely heavy. Regardless, on any move, it is helpful for you to give us as much notice as possible.
How long does a free in-home estimate take? We try to accomplish our estimates as quickly as possible, but accuracy requires attention to detail while in your home, so it will take a little time to complete. We can normally complete the survey within an hour.
Why Do I need transit valuation? Should I purchase transit valuation for my property while being shipped? Isn’t Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage responsible (liable) for my property while in their possession? The answer to both of these questions is YES.
Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage is liable, but our liability is limited. We are accountable for 60 cents per lb. per article. Example: You ship a wardrobe of clothes valued at $1,300.00 and the carton weighs 55 lbs. If the carton is lost in transit and cannot be found, our Bill of Lading stipulates that the maximum liability is 60 cents per lb. per article. The maximum claim payment allotted is $33.00 for the lost clothing that is valued at $1,300.00.
Our professional staff strives to have an accident free move, but the fact remains, accidents do happen. Any time property is handled or moved, an unfortunate event can occur. Even the most professional, qualified movers encounter claims for lost and damaged items. Walk through you home and try to assess what it would cost you to replace everything you own and will be in our care. If the majority of your property is ruined in a vehicle accident, truck theft, warehouse flood or fire, could you replace it if your were reimbursed at 60 cents per lb. per article?
Please understand that Dale J. Cook ’s liability (as stipulated on the Bill of Lading) is just that. It is not and cannot be considered as valuation coverage and does not cover Acts of God. If a moving company’s representative states that you have transit valuation, be sure to ask that person for the details of the referenced coverage.
Transit valuation is needed and worth purchasing. The valuation charge compensates the mover for assuming a greater degree of liability than is provided for in the base transportation charges. When you buy valuation coverage be sure to read your policy. Know the type and amount of valuation you are purchasing, as well as the deductible.
What do I need to do during the move? You need to be present during the packing of your belongings, as well as take personal responsibility for jewelry and other high value items. Be sure to check and sign the inventory of your belongings and ensure that prohibited items are not packed.
Is there anything you will not move ? Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage cannot move drugs, alcohol, ammunition, liquids, corrosives or flammable items, Anything that can deteriorate should not be shipped, such as foods.
Can Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage handle my vehicle? In some instances Dale J. Cook Moving & Storage can move your vehicle with the shipment. If it determined this is not feasible, we can arrange for an alternate method and will provide you with the pricing for this service.. We do not transport cars as part of a regular local move.
Can I pack myself? A lot of people pack some or all of their shipment in an effort to save money. If you do pack yourself, the boxes will be marked as "PBO" (packed by owner). Valuation coverage will not pay on goods packed by owner, unless the exterior of the box is damaged.
How long does it take to pack a home? No two homes are alike, but the average to pack a home is 1-2 days.
Can I leave items in drawers? It is fine to leave items in the drawers, but you need to make sure that there is nothing liquid or breakable in the drawers that might damage the furniture. Also, weighty items should not be in the drawers, they might shift and compromise the structural integrity of the piece
What is a binding, non-binding, and not to exceed estimate ? A "Binding" estimate is a contract that specifies in advance, the precise cost of the move based on the services requested or deemed necessary at the time of the estimate.
A "Non-binding" estimate charges you according to the actual weight of your shipment and the actual cost of the services that are performed. The estimate process determines what your shipment should cost. To verify the weight of your shipment, the driver will weigh his trailer prior to loading and once again after loading. All other charges are calculated at your origin address. If you desire, you may meet the driver at the scale both before and after loading to witness the weighing.
A "Not to Exceed" estimate specifies the maximum charge to you. You will be responsible for either the estimate or a lesser amount if the actual is less than the estimate. | 
