Moving Terms Glossary to Help With a Smooth Move

Are you relocating soon? Moving can be challenging and stressful, but being familiar with commonly used moving terms will help you make informed choices about your move. Here are some moving keywords that might be helpful to you while relocating.

Agent: A moving company affiliated with the van line handles booking, origin, hauling, and destination services.

Arrival Window: The hours or dates between which your movers will arrive at your home and begin loading your belongings. Generally, the window is about two hours.

Bill of Lading: A bill of lading is a contract between you and the mover. It shows the goods the movers have loaded onboard the truck, lists the conditions of the move, and acts as a receipt.

Binding/Nonbinding Estimate: A binding estimate guarantees the price of the move. A mover will only give a binding estimate after visiting your home and taking a complete inventory. A non-binding estimate is not guaranteed. A mover provides that estimate based on their experience. It is subject to change based on the final weight of the shipment.

Bulky Article Charge: Bulky items are awkward, large items that require extra handling and are subject to an additional fee. Examples are hot tubs and pool tables.

Delivery Window: The hours or dates your movers will deliver your goods to your destination. The driver may call you for long-distance moves within 12 to 24 hours to narrow the arrival times.

Full-Service Mover: A full-service mover can handle every aspect of packing your home and getting your items to their destination.

License: Your professional mover will have a license, or legal certification, to transport your goods within or across state lines. Movers also should be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Non-Allowable List: For safety reasons, your mover will not move certain items which are on a non-allowable list. You can obtain a list of prohibited items from your moving company. This list generally includes cleaning products, chemicals, live pets, perishable items, automobile batteries, and gasoline.

Packing Service: A packing service is a supplemental service that most full-service movers offer. It involves packing all the household goods and unpacking them at the destination.

Special Handling Fee: Movers charge a special handling fee when you request services beyond the standard charge list, for example, TV mounting and dismounting or moving a piano. These services vary by the mover.

Tariff: A tariff is a price document on the Bill of Lading or moving contract. It details your charges. It also lists the movers required, rules, rates, and costs.

Waiting Time: Some moving companies charge a fee if the van operator must stay outside the destination address waiting for someone to accept delivery.

Warehouse Storage: Sometimes, customers must store their goods until their new home is ready for occupancy. The movers will keep the shipment in a warehouse that is not open to the public. The moving company will wrap the goods, place them on pallets and organize them in the storage facility until the customer is ready.

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9 Tips for Meeting the Neighbors in Your New Community

Moving to a new neighborhood can be exciting because the move brings an opportunity to get to know new people. Here are some ways to meet your new neighbors after your household move.

1. Get Outside

Meet your neighbors by getting outside. You can garden, take a walk, or sit on your porch. Introduce yourself to people you meet. If you have a dog, take it to the local park, where you’ll likely meet other dog owners.

2. Hold a Housewarming Party

Once you get settled, drop by your neighbors’ homes and invite them to a housewarming party. If the weather is nice, consider holding the party outside. Either way, serve refreshments and play some games that help you get to know each other.

3. Attend Community Events

If your neighborhood has association meetings, attend and introduce yourself. Check local calendars for events that interest you. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet someone with similar interests to yours.

4. Get Involved

Take advantage of your neighborhood’s Y or community recreation center to improve your health and meet your neighbors. You can also find hobby clubs where you can meet people who share your interests. If you have children, get involved in PTA committees or athletic booster groups.

5. Ask for Advice

People love to help other people. They also love talking about things they like.

You’ll need new doctors, hair stylists, barbers, dentists, and other professionals. Asking your neighbors is an excellent way to gain insights into the best professionals while also meeting your neighbors.

6. Be Alert

Be mindful of opportunities when you can help your neighbors. For example, if you notice that one of your neighbors has recently had a baby, consider baking cookies or brownies and delivering them. If your neighbor tells you they are going on a trip, volunteer to water their plants or take in their newspaper. Or, if you see your neighbor struggling with heavy groceries, offer a hand.

7. Mind Your Manners

Because you’re new in the neighborhood, you might receive gifts of food or treats from your neighbors. Be sure to say thank you. A lovely thank you note is a great way to show your appreciation and keep the lines of communication open

8. Let Your Kids Lead

Kids also provide great opportunities to meet your neighbors. Kids easily make friends. Walk around the neighborhood with your family and introduce yourself and your children to other families.

You can also check the library or community centers for kids’ activities. Enroll your children in any events that pique their interest. They’ll make new friends, and, by extension, you might connect with some new people too.

9. Volunteer

Volunteering for a charitable cause is another good way to meet your neighbors while helping others. Consider charities such as the food pantry, shelter, senior center, or Neighborhood Watch program.

Moving and Your New Neighborhood 

With the help of professional movers, the move to your new neighborhood will be simpler than ever. So contact us today for your free no-obligation estimate.