Shipping FAQ

Do I Need An Estimate?

A pre-move survey is needed to determine the approximate cost of a move and the amount of space your goods will occupy. An accurate estimate cannot be given without a visual survey of the goods to be moved. There is no charge for the estimate. Keep in mind that estimates (household goods surveys) are only guidelines and total charges will be determined by the actual weight and size of your shipment, the distance it travels, and the services which you authorize or which become necessary to handle your shipment. Charges for local shipments are generally calculated on an hourly basis. There may be a minimum number of hours required.

How Much Will My Move Cost?

The exact cost of your move cannot be determined until after your shipment has been loaded into van packs/lift vans for consolidated shipments. If additional services are requested or become necessary after loading and weighing, additional charges will be incurred. Basic transportation charges depend on the actual weight and size of your shipment and the distance they will travel as well as the specific services you request.

How And When Should I Pay?

DeWitt Moving & Storage requires that all charges be paid before your shipment departs from the origin agent (unless prior arrangements have been made for later billing.) Payment for your shipment can be made by one of the following methods: cash, traveler's check, money order or cashier's check. In addition, MasterCard® or Visa® can be used to pay for moving services as well.

Am I Protected Against Loss Or Damage While My Goods Are In Transit?

Yes, but how much protection you have and its cost to you depend upon the insurance option you choose. Insurance options will be addressed in writing in our written estimate for proposed services.

Can My Possessions Be Stored Temporarily?

If your are unable to take immediate possession of your new residence, your belongings can usually be stored in an agent's warehouse. Advising our company in advance of your anticipated arrival plans can help us insure that the agent chosen to complete destination services is equipped with a facility that can meet your storage request. However, you are responsible for the storage charges, as well as warehouse handling and final delivery charges from the warehouse. If your goods are placed in storage, there may also be an additional charge for the valuation or insurance coverage depending on the insurance plan you have chosen to cover your shipment.

Will My Furnishings Remain Clean?

DeWitt Moving & Storage uses the industries top quality material to protect your shipment from getting dirty during transit. Our policy is to wrap or pad all furnishings within your home prior to loading.

Do My Appliances Need Special Attention?

Most refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other electrical or mechanical appliances require special servicing to assure safe transportation. Any moving parts such as motors on major appliances, washer drums, icemakers, and the pickup arm on a phonograph should be securely fastened for shipment. Gas appliances need to be serviced and disconnected by your local gas utility. It is the owner's responsibility to see that appliances are serviced for shipment before they are loaded for shipping.

Can I Pack My Own China, Glass and Crystal?

Most people prefer to have their household possessions, especially fragile items, professionally packed by a moving company. DUE TO HIGHTENED SECURITY LEVELS OF THE HOMELAND SECURITY, WE ARE REQUIRED TO SEE AND INVENTORY ALL ITEMS PACKED BEFOR SHIPPING. However, if you decide to pack these items yourself, remember that the basic principles of good packing include wrapping the items individually, providing plenty of cushioning and making sure of a firm pack. Be sure to select a sturdy container with a lid. Place a two-or three-inch layer of crushed paper on the bottom of the carton as a cushion. Wrap each item individually with a soft material to provide a safe, protective, "padded nest." Pack the heaviest items on the bottom, lighter ones next, filling in empty spaces with crushed paper. Place plates on edge and glassware on rims for maximum protection. Mark the carton "Fragile," and list the contents on the outside. Be sure to seal the carton with tape. Cartons, paper and tape may be purchased from DeWitt Moving & Storage for a modest cost. One important note on articles packed by owners is that they will not be covered under the terms of any of our insurance policies. Therefore your fragile and breakable items should be packed by a professional.

Can Clothes Be Packed In A Chest Or Dresser Drawers?

Lightweight clothing -- sweaters, shirts, blouses, lingerie -- may be left in the drawers. Do not fill drawers with heavy items such as books, table linens or sheets, which can damage the piece of furniture during transit. Be careful not to leave fragile items, money, jewelry, watches or other valuables in the drawers, as well as anything that might spill or leak.

Can I move food items?

Food items have been restricted in shipments due to the homeland security changes and the FDA will no longer allow food items to be packed in Household goods shipments. Should food items be packed, a full unloading and inspection will take place on the entire shipment at substantial cost.

Can I Move Jewelry And Other Valuables?

Items of extraordinary value such as jewelry, money, antiques and stamp collections can be included in your shipment, provided you notify DeWitt Moving & Storage of these items before packing or moving day. However, we strongly recommend that you carry irreplaceable and expensive articles with you, or make other arrangements for their transport.