Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get a written estimate?
A written estimate is binding, where as phone estimates and rate quotations are not.
A written estimate provides you a "not to exceed" maximum price.
A written estimate also, allows us to determine what size truck will be required,
the number of movers needed and any special equipment that may needed.
How long will an estimate take?
Estimates usually take about an hour.
When should I call to schedule my move with Metropolitan?
We can handle short notice and next day moves, but ask you to
give us as much notice as you can, especially during the summer months.
Can you pack and move me on the same day?
Local moves are generally done all in one day, an exception would be if there
is a significant amount of packing, then it would be preferable to pack one
day and load and deliver the next day. Long Distance moves are generally loaded
all in one day and delivering will depend upon the distance from origin.
Why is driving time doubled on local moves?
Drive time used to be charged from the time the mover left their
warehouse and until they returned after the move was completed. This was called
Portal to Portal, because the mover had dedicated the manpower and equipment
for that one move. The problem was that the customer had no way to confirm
the actual time that it took the movers to drive to and from their warehouse.
The PUC (Public Utilities Commission), in an effort to allow the customer a
way to confirm the time, decided that movers should charge double the drive
time from origin to destination. This allows the customer the opportunity
to confirm the drive time and still helps the mover cover some of the cost
to drive to and from the job.
Can I see my shipment being weighed?
You are more than welcome to actually witness the weighing. That is you can
follow the driver to a scale and witness the weighing of the truck with and
without your items.
What is valuation?
We offer several levels of liability protection, should anything
happen while your shipment is in transit and/or storage. The standard protection
option is $.60 per pound per article.
While Full Value Protection (FVP) is not insurance, it does
establish the Metropolitan or Atlas Van Lines' liability obligation in the
event of lost or damage. That means repayment for the full cost of repairing
or replacing any item that's lost or damaged.
FVP is an affordable choice of protection. Whether you choose:
- No deductible
- $250.00 deductible or
- $500.00 deductible
There is a coverage level to suit your needs and to ease your mind.
What are my responsibilities?
Be present during the packing, loading and unloading of your belongings.
Take personal responsibility for high value items such as jewelry, coin collections, etc.
Check and sign the inventory of your belongings. Ensure that no prohibited items are packed.
Is it o.k. to leave the dressers loaded?
Yes, you can leave clothing in the dressers. Remove anything that is fragile or breakable
and all small items.
Do I have to unload my file cabinets?
Paper and files can remain in file cabinets under most circumstances.
Anything fragile or breakable should be removed. If the file cabinet is four high
the top two drawers need to be emptied.
Should I pack myself?
It is up to you. But be aware of the potential problems.
For example, valuation coverage will not pay out on goods packed by their owner,
unless the exterior of the box is damaged.
I live in an apartment with an elevator, will the movers take care of arrangements?
No, it is your responsibility to contact your building supervisor regarding the
specific procedures for your building. The arrangements may include, but are not
limited to: reserving elevators and obtaining parking permits for the moving van.
Will you unpack my shipment?
Yes we can arrange to have all or a portion of your boxes unpacked.
How do I pay for my shipment?
If your company is reimbursing you for your moving expenses, check
with your moving consultant about direct billing options.
Metropolitan accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover card and American Express credit
cards. Cashiers checks, money orders and cash are also accepted. Personal
checks are accepted on moves within California.
Please read Helpful Hints for additional information to help your move
go smoothly.
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