Moving

Benefits of Renting vs. Owning a Home

If you’re planning on striking out on your own and moving, then you may be stuck with the question as to whether you should rent or buy a home. Both have benefits and negatives. To help you determine whether renting is the right choice or not for you, here are a few benefits of renting versus owning a home.

1. Limited Risk

Because of the house market crash in 2008, many people are still wary of buying a home. When mortgage rates suddenly went up, a lot of people were unable to pay their monthly mortgage bills. That led to a lot of foreclosures. It also impacted those who were trying to sell their homes. A lot of them were unable to which also meant their homes went into foreclosure.

This is something that a lot of new buyers are considering when choosing whether to rent or own a home. Will the market still be stable in 20 or so years when they want to sell the house? It’s difficult to tell.

That’s why one of the benefits of renting is that it carries a lot less risk. While your rent may go up every year, you likely won’t see the same kind of skyrocketing price that an adjustable insurance rate might on a home.

You also don’t have to worry about selling the apartment or home when you choose to leave it. That’s a risk that the owner carries. In the renting world, you don’t have to worry about the housing market.

2. Fewer Up-Front Costs

While rent is often more expensive than a mortgage, you’re able to afford it initially a lot more. When buying a home, there are a lot of up-front costs that you don’t typically think about. Most banks require a 20% down payment. For a home that costs $100,000, that’s $20,000 of your own money that you have to put down.

For a lot of people, they don’t have $20,000 just sitting around. If you’re looking for a $200K house or even more expensive, then the down payment is even higher. You’ll also have closing costs that you’ll need to consider. This can sometimes be as high as another $20,000.

When you choose to rent, you typically just have to pay the security deposit, the first month’s worth of rent, and sometimes the last month’s worth of rent. However, you can often find deals provided by apartment complexes that might wave a security deposit or first month’s worth of rent. This can drive the price of getting into an apartment down even more.

3. Benefits of Renting – Moving Out is Easier

When you sell a home, it may end up costing you more than you think. Negotiating with buyers can be a hassle. They may want you to cover their closing costs. There’s also the inspection. While the buyers may have to foot the bill for the inspection, you’re going to be responsible for having to fix all of the repairs that need to be made.

If you didn’t list your home as selling ‘as is,’ then you could have a few expensive repairs to take care of. For example, the inspector might find that your septic tank and septic system is expired. The drain field could be fully used up. That’s easily a $10k-$20k service.

If you need a roof, then that’s another costly repair that you have to include. In order to sell your home for a profit, you have to start repairing your home a few years before you actually want to sell it. Even then, you’ll likely find something that needs to be done.

Renting, on the other hand, doesn’t require any additional repairs or services. While you may have to pay a little extra to break the lease early, take care of some damages, or any additional charges, they won’t be nearly as much as some of the costs to sell a home are.

In addition, you’re basically able to leave whenever you want. Even if you have a contract for a full 12 months, you can still break the lease if you pay for it. This gives you a lot of freedom and flexibility to move when and how you want.

4. Minimal Maintenance

Another costly part of owning a home is the repairs that you eventually need to attend to as the house and its appliances become older. Unless you happen to be an electrician, plumber, construction worker, or HVAC professional, you likely can’t handle doing all of the repairs yourself.

Instead, you’re going to have to pay for the services from professionals. Sometimes this may be as simple as fixing a broken toilet. Other times, it may be quite costly like needing a new HVAC unit or furnace.

Renting, on the other hand, means that you don’t have to worry about maintenance. While you may need to change out your own light bulbs, other pricier problems like broken toilets, a broken water heater, or even a broken washer/dryer unit are handled by the apartment complex.

They have a team of maintenance workers who will take care of the problem for you at no extra charge. You don’t have to juggle a series of plumbers to find the best quote for your home. Instead, a simple call to your landlord will get the problem fixed in just a matter of days.

5. No Property Taxes

When buying a home, people don’t always pay attention to property taxes. However, they can sometimes make an affordable home suddenly too expensive to pay for. These are taxes that you don’t have to worry about when you choose to rent. You just have your bills and your rent to pay.

As you consider the benefits of renting, renting provides a flexible living.

Consider Box-n-go Storage

Box-n-Go is a portable storage company which helps both renter and owners alike. Using Box-n-Go‘s convenient and affordable storage services you can free up space inside your home. Easily and affordably. All because we come to you. To learn more simply call us at 1-877-269-6461.

How do I move my belongings overseas?

What happens when you learn you will soon be relocating overseas? After searching the web for “military storage near me”, you probably have lots of questions about this move. In particular, you may be wondering how you will ship your goods. If so, we have some information that should prove very helpful.

Shipment by Sea

Sea transport is by far the most common method of shipping household goods overseas. That’s because it is also the most cost-effective. Are you are searching for “military storage near me” because you are a service member who is PCSing overseas? If so, this is most likely the method that will be authorized by the government.

Shipping via boat will require you to load your possessions into a container. That container will then be placed onto a seagoing vessel. There are basically two different container sizes to choose from:

• A 20-foot container, which contains approximately 1,170 cubic feet. This size can normally hold the contents of a one-or two bedroom home or apartment.
• A 40-foot container, which can hold up to 2,385 cubic feet. One this big can secure the contents of a three to five bedroom home.

Military Storage Near Me – Packing Options when Shipping by Sea

A sea shipment will afford you three different packing options. The first is port-to-port. This method requires you to physically bring your goods to the port itself and pack them into a container. This is normally the least expensive option. It is best suited for those who have only a few possessions to ship.

The drop-and fill-method provides more convenience. It involves a transportation company dropping off a container at your home. This works similar to a storage container in that you will pack and load your own household goods. When finished, you will notify the company, who will then come and pick your container up. At your destination, another shipper will deliver your container. That company will then allow time for you to unload your items before picking it up.

A door-to-door move is very similar to a full-service, land-based move. In that case, the moving company will supply the container. They will also use their own crew to pack and load it for you. When you arrive overseas, another firm will deliver the container and then unload it.

With a door-to-door move, you can sometimes ask your moving crew to pack items you have in storage. If you would rather leave some items behind, they can normally accommodate that request as well. Perform a search for military storage near me to find a convenient storage location that is easy to access.

Moving Goods by Air

An air shipment will drastically reduce the amount of time your goods are in transit. Even so, it does come with a much heftier price tag. Accordingly, you should seriously consider downsizing your items before deciding to move them by air.

Perhaps you will only be gone a short time and do not want to give up many of your prized possession. In that case, we recommend looking for “military storage near me”. This will allow you to find a safe location to store your goods in during the interim.

The exact details of your move will depend on your shipping company. For example, some air transport companies require household goods to be packed into a container. That container is similar to those used when shipping things by boat. Other airlines will accept individual boxes or crates. As such, it is important to know what the specific requirements are so that you are not caught off guard.

Military Storage Near Me – Estimated Time frame for an Overseas Move

When moving overseas, it is extremely difficult to narrow down an exact time when your household goods will arrive. A good moving company will prepare you for this, and will provide information that will help you avoid delays.

Although it isn’t possible to provide you with an exact time frame, there are nonetheless some estimates to keep in mind. Sea shipments can take anywhere from one to three months. Air shipments are much quicker, and can arrive as soon as a few days after loading. This is only the amount of time you should allot for getting goods to your new host country. A few other factors can determine how long it might take for you to actually take delivery. We will discuss those factors below.

Military Storage Near Me – What Happens Upon Arrival?

Your shipment will need to pass through customs upon arrival. This is true regardless of whether you are having things transported by air or by sea. The amount of time it takes for shipments to clear customs will depend on a number of factors. Here are some things that might cause delays:

• Missing or incomplete paperwork
• Including “forbidden” items in your shipment. For example, certain countries may have restrictions on alcohol, electronics, or vehicles.
• Experiencing a backlog at the port
• Inclement weather or acts of nature such as a hurricane or tsunami. These events could prevent your shipment from being processed

Once your items have cleared customs, you are then ready to take possession. The manner in which you do that will depend on your shipping method. If you have chosen a port-to-port move, you’ll be notified as to when you may come and unload your container. Otherwise, a moving company will deliver your container directly to your new residence. They will also deliver any loose cargo shipped by air. If you have elected to have door to door service, the moving crew will unload your items as well.

Military Storage Near Me – Choosing the Right Movers

The right moving company is especially important when planning an overseas move. Look for a company with lots of experience shipping goods to your particular country. If you are looking for “military storage near me”, ask your company to recommend some reputable facilities. That way, you can be sure your goods will be safe during your absence. Keep the above information in mind and allow as much time as possible to plan your move. Doing so will ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.

Military Storage Near Me – Box-n-Go

Box-n-Go is a portable storage and moving company. We deliver the portable storage containers to you. So, when you search for the “military storage near me”, we fit the bill better than anyone else! Our easy and convenient storage options allow you to store or move. When relocating overseas, one thing to remember is that eventually you will be coming back. As such, you likely have many items that you just want to keep and there is no good reason to ship them overseas and return later. You can simply and economically store them for the duration of your overseas deployment.

While we cannot help you move overseas, we can help you with most of your local moving and storage needs. We can also offer a ton of FREE advise. Simply call us at 1-877-269-6461 and our moving consultants will be happy to discuss any options you need help with.

Moving Glossary

When it comes to moving, there are many terms common to the industry. However, they are not quite common in the real world. This is why we are here to provide this mini-glossary for you. Below you will find many of the most common terms used and the explanation of what they mean. When you are speaking with movers, try and use the terms they use. This will help you get the lower costs as you will be literally speaking the same language as they are. Also, understanding the terms will certainly help you understand the process much better. hence you will be able navigate the rough waters of moving with ease.

Moving terms are not difficult to grasp. Most of them are self explanatory. However, many people become shy when they hear new or unfamiliar word. This is why we feel understanding the meaning will go a long way towards being able to command this new vocabulary.

Accessorial Charges

This moving glossary term covers just about anything extra that an additional payment is due for during a move. If a moving company packs, unpacks, has to carry things up stairs, or services an appliance, those charges are classified as accessorial.

Advanced Services

This is any work by a third-party before the time of moving. These are optional services, and you have to request them. The third-party company is usually invoicing the movers up-front. Then, the cost is tabulated and you will see it as a charge to your Bill of Lading. The amount due may be provided at the end of your move.

Agent

This is a smaller, local company that represents a larger, national van line (see definition). The agent handles direct service with customers. They function near-independently, but they have access to the resources of the larger company and follow the van line’s policies. Having the backing of a national company helps coordinate moves across greater distances. Some cross-country moves involve an Origin Agent at your old location who coordinates with the Destination Agent at your new location.

Appliance Servicing

Often the moving company unhooks your stove, dryer, washing machine, etc. in order to move it and then reconnects it at the other end. Movers refer to this as “appliance servicing.” The cost is either by service or by time, depending on the company. If third-party company did this ahead of time, that is classified as Advanced Services. Do not be cut by surprise. Some companies may refuse to provide this service due to liability risks. So it is best to make sure your appliances are not connected by the time movers arrive.

Appliance Dolly

An upright two-wheeled cart, usually with built-in straps used to make moving large appliances or furniture easier. There are a variety of dollies, some with adjustable handles and an extra set of wheels that let you convert it into a four-wheel hand-cart. If you plan on using one, please take a look at how to use it properly on YouTube or similar resource.

Assessed Value Coverage

Essentially, this is moving glossary speak for “insurance.” If you choose to purchase coverage, movers evaluate everything in the load. Then you pay for coverage according to the worth of your items. Beware, however, there are many options. Make sure you choose what works for you.

Bill of Lading

Moving glossary lingo for “receipt”. All of the services, costs, time-estimates, etc. are on display in this binding document. The Bill of Lading is like an index of all the important information pertaining to your move. BOL (short for Bill of Lading) is your contract. Make sure to read it carefully.

Binding/Non-binding/Hourly Estimate

Binding: you get a quote for the items you have. This type of estimate is common when the mover sees the inventory on-site. You have to pay this amount and there are no extras at the end of the job, regardless of how long it takes. Non-Binding: the mover gives you a ballpark number of how much the job will cost, but nothing is final until the end of the move. Hourly: you pay by the hour for the truck and the labor, and your bill is tallied on time alone plus materials used, if any.

Carrier

The moving company you hired is called the carrier in moving glossary terms. There are usually large companies called van lines that supervise smaller local businesses, or agents, who manage your move. Together they are your carrier.

Certified Scale

Trucks and other large vehicles often need to be weighed when transporting things. There are authorities who check these scales, and once they’ve given them the go-ahead they classify as certified. For long-distance moves it is particularly important to have an accurate scale because you typically pay based on weight and distance.

C.O.D. “Cash on Delivery”

Some companies send you a bill and let you pay later, but others ask for cash on delivery. This means that the driver needs either cash, check, or credit at the end of the move. Please note that movers hold a lien against your belongings. Thus they may request a payment prior to delivery completion.

Cube Sheet

The moving glossary equivalent of an inventory list. All of the goods to be moved are written down, as is the space in cubic feet that each item takes up. This can then be turned into a weight estimate, which informs the moving estimate. For accuracy the weight estimate could be compared to the net weight measured by a certified scale.

Divider

Within the moving truck, a divider is used to create a physical barrier to keep your stuff separate and organized. Some companies charge extra for these. Other times the company opts to use them to separate one customer’s items from another because multiple shipments were needed to fill the truck to capacity.

Destination Agent

The business that represents the moving company at the moving destination. They coordinate the move and makes sure everything is squared away with the customer when everything is over.

Door-to-Door Service

Items are moved from A to B without spending any time in storage in-between.

Elevator Charge

The extra charge you might incur when the move requires the movers to use an elevator. Similar to a flight charge, which is when they have to use stairs. This charge is self explanatory: elevators are busy, used by everyone. this may significantly slow down the process. Movers will use significantly more resources on your move. Since the impact of the elevator use is unpredictable, there is a charge that may cover their added expense.

Essentials Box

When moving, the customer packs things like toothbrushes, changes of clothes, and other things they need on a daily basis in a box that stays with them rather than being loaded onto the moving truck.

Expedited Service

For an extra fee, you can pay for this service. It guarantees a faster, set delivery date, which is convenient if you need your items by a certain time. If the items aren’t on time, the moving company compensate the customer for the inconvenience.

Flight Charge

This is a fee that is added if your movers have to either ascend or descend stairs at the start or end of the move. The extra labor of stairs requires additional payment. If there is a serviceable freight elevator in your building it negates this charge, but some companies may charge you an elevator fee instead.

Freight Service

For a cheaper approach to moving, you can go this route. Freight service gets your stuff from point a to point b. However you have to box everything yourself. There is no special attention on how load things onto the truck Your items will simply arrive at the doorstep of your new house.

Full-Service Mover

Unlike freight service where the customer has to box and organize everything them self, this type of mover handles those things for you. They protect items with moving blankets and unpack your boxes in the appropriate rooms of your new home. They also offer more insurance options in case your items suffer damages during the move.

Gross Weight

How much the truck weighs when loaded with a shipment. Includes moving supplies and equipment too. The gross weight helps determine net weight, which is how most companies determine how much to charge their customers. Gross weight – tare weight = net weight.

Guaranteed Pickup and Delivery

If you need your items moved on a certain day and delivered by a certain day, this moving glossary term is a good one to look for when choosing a moving service. With this guarantee, the moving company is responsible for reimbursing you if your items aren’t picked up or delivered on time. This service does cost more, and it is often subject to minimum weight requirements.

Gypsy Moth

When moving in the United States, the USDA requires anyone going from a gypsy moth quarantine zone to a non-quarantine zone check all of their outdoor belongings for any sign of this invasive pest. Any eggs and larvae must be removed. If you neglect to do this and were moving from a quarantine zone to a non-quarantine zone, you can be fined. There is an extensive checklist on the USDA website to help make sure you’re moth-free during your move.

High Value Article

Anything you’re transporting that is worth more than one hundred dollars per pound is, by this moving glossary term, a high value article. If you have such items and worry about these items during the move, you can purchase insurance to cover your losses in the event of damage or theft.

Hazard Insurance

Protects items in the event of flood, fire, tornado, and other natural disasters. You may also inquire with your home insurance to see what it covers when it comes to moving.

Impracticable Operations

Sometimes there are special circumstances that require the movers to use non-standard equipment or extra help. The guidelines for this are established in the company’s tariff.

Inherent Vice

If an item can’t be moved because doing so would damage it, it’s described as an inherent vice. An example would be an antique dresser whose veneer is crumbling and whose legs are starting to splint. The likelihood of it making the trip without being further damaged is highly unlikely no matter the precautions taken.

International Move

If an international boundary is crossed, it classifies as an international move.

Interstate Move

Any move that crosses state lines.

Intrastate Move

Any move where point the origin and destination are in the same state.

Inventory

A detailed list of all the items involved in the move as well as their condition. Usually, however, movers fill out inventory on a special form, similar to a cube sheet. Wherein everything is given an estimate of how many cubic feet of space they fill.

Linehaul Charges

Specifically used for long-distance moves, this charge is calculated using the weight of the shipment and the mileage of the trip.

Loading Ramp

An extension (usually metal) that pulls out from the back of the truck and rests on the ground. It allows movers to wheel furniture up to the truck bed on dollies rather than lifting it into the truck.

Local Move

A short move that takes place usually within a forty mile radius of the origin.

Long Carry Charge

If the truck can’t be parked close to the building, an extra charge applies for the time and labor the movers spend transporting the shipment between the building and the truck. Often long narrow driveways can result in the long carry. Similar case with apartment buildings with long corridors and distances between apartments and elevators.

Long-Term Storage

When a moving company/agent brings the items to a warehouse and holds the items there, usually for more than ninety days. this kind of storage does not have to be with the same moving company.

Net Weight

How much the shipment weighs. It’s found by subtracting the tare weight (how much the empty truck weighs) from then gross weight (how much the truck weighs with the full shipment loaded onto it.)

Non-Allowable List

Details everything the company will not move. Examples include items with insect infestations, pianos, and hazardous materials. Also, food, live plants, animals etc. Many companies will advise you against moving valuables, guns, ammunition, chemicals,, flammables and similar items.

Order for Service

This document gives the moving company permission to transport your items.

Order Number

Also known as Bill of Lading. This is the number used to track your account and inventory.

Origin Agent

The business that works for the van line at the starting point. Coordinates with the destination agent.P

Packing Service

An extra-fee service where professionals pack your items at the start of your move and unpack at the end if the move.

PBO

Short for “packed by owner.” When the owner packs their own things rather than hiring the company to do so.

Permanent Storage

When items are moved with the warehouse as the final destination. They then stay in storage at the warehouse indefinitely.

Peak Season Rates

Higher prices charged during the moving company’s busy season, usually from mid-May to the end of September.

Piano

Pianos are notoriously difficult to move. Many moving companies refuse to move them out of the home and will refer customers to a local piano moving specialist.

Pre-Existing Damage

Noted condition of items so that the moving company can’t be charged for dings, knicks, scrapes, or breakage they didn’t cause.

Preferred Arrival Date (PAF)

The customer’s desired date of delivery.

Quote

The amount the agent tells the customer the move will cost, taking into account the cube sheet, distance, and timeline for the move.

Reweigh

Upon reaching the destination city, the customer may request a reweigh in order to be certain that the charge from the initial weigh at the origin location was correct. After a reweigh, that weight is what enters the calculation for the bill.

Released Value Insurance

A free, Federal, mandatory blanket insurance policy guaranteed to every moving customer. In the case that you didn’t buy other insurance for your items, your coverage is at sixty center per pound per item, regardless of how much the item originally cost.

Self-Service Mover

The moving company provides you with a truck, a driver, and nothing more. Movers drive and part the truck at point A. It’s up to you to pack and load everything. Then the company drives the truck to point B, where they leave it for you to unload and unpack everything by yourself. When finished, you call the company and they take back their truck. Often in these instances if your shipment doesn’t fill the truck, the company will add another shipment to complete the load and maximize their use of space.

An alternative to the above would be to use storage containers, like the ones by Box-n-Go. These are first delivered to your origin location. you pack them. After loading completion, Box-n-Go comes to your location to pick up the containers with your belongings inside them. We will ship them to destination after that, where the unloading process will take place.

Shuttle Service

Occasionally, particularly in big cities, the semi trailer moving trucks can’t fit on the street closest to the delivery address. A second, smaller truck or van comes to the rescue to transport small batches of your belongings from the large truck to your new home.

Stair-Carry Charge

This charge applies in the event that the movers have to navigate stairs.

Stretch-Wrap

Available in different widths, this saran-wrap type plastic is perfect to secure items, particularly furniture, during the moving process. It’s great for securing furniture such as dressers to keep the drawers from flying open in transit. It’s also perfect to protect against the dust.

Survey

Often people refer to this as an in-home estimate. A mover visits the client’s house and fills out a cube sheet to inventory everything that is subject to your move, as well as making an estimate of the total weight. They answer any questions, add-on any needed additional services, and then give a quote for the final cost of the move.

SIT

Sometimes the consignee – destination can not receive a shipment. When this happens, the moving glossary term “SIT” comes into play. This means “Storage in Transit.” You can pay to store items in a warehouse for up to ninety days.

Tare Weight

How much the truck weighs with moving supplies and equipment on board, but without the load. To calculate this subtract the net weight from gross weight.

Tariff

This document lists everything involved in the moving company’s process. It details rules, regulations, and rates. Most companies have different lists depending on the type of move, e.g. short- versus long-distance.

USDOT Number

This number identifies any vehicle that carries cargo across state lines. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issues and regulates this. US Department of Transportation further oversees the process. This number is a must for interstate moves.

Valuation

This is a monetary summary of what your cargo is worth. In the event that things are lost or damaged, the moving company uses this value to determine their liability.

Van Lines

National companies that coordinate local agents to carry out the moving needs of their customers. The larger van line brand manages smaller local agents, creating a network of moving companies across the country.

Warehouse Handling Fee

If you need your items to stay in storage while in transit, they can be set up in a warehouse. Usually by the moving agent. The cost of this comes from loading and unloading fees, rental of the space in the warehouse, and delivery charges when it goes to its final destination.

“Your Rights and Responsibilities when you Move”

This government-issued guide details everything you need to know about the role you play as a customer in the moving process. From insurance to claims to estimates, this document walks you through things from start to finish.

Box-n-Go

Box-n-go is your local moving and storage company. We offer many ways to move and store. from self service storage and moving to full service offerings. You can pick not only the service that works the best for you. Also, you can perform some of the work your self and save. You are in full control!

Please call Box-n-Go at 1-877-269-6461. Our experienced advisers are standing by to answer any questions you may have.

Does Military Pay for Move After Discharge

Military storage units can be of help in many situations. Transitioning can be quite difficult. Change is never something that comes easy. No one ever looks forward to moving. Life as a soldier gives you the added benefit of having experience uprooting your life. You have had to do this time and time again. But what about those soldiers with families? What do they do with all of their stuff when they move?

Military Storage Units for the Inevitable Move

From processing from MEPS to Basic and from Basic to AIT, moving from location to location is not new to you. As with anything that comes to military life, there are benefits. Whether it’s the Army, Navy, or Marines, there are military storage units available, offered by businesses that provide units at a discount for military families.

If you are active military, you know how sudden a relocation can happen. As a soldier, you can be deployed or moved to another base at any given time. Preparation is in order to make your transition run as smooth as possible. Active military families can expect to have to relocate every two years. This is much more common than with civilian families, who may only have to move once every five years. The need for storage at this point is a given. In this case, there are a lot of things to consider and to do.

Getting Organized

You have to make a checklist. This is especially a novel idea considering the long duration of time you may have to leave your household goods and furniture in a storage unit. The move is inevitable and there is no better time to prepare than now. Make a checklist of everything you need to have completed before your move, check off the items as you complete them. Luckily, this type of preparation is second nature to any soldier.

For one, you need to do your research. Googling ‘military storage units’ is a good start. As mentioned before, there are loads of services that work with military personnel and their families that you can use to their benefit. Find what works for you. Be as picky as you need to be. You and your family deserve the best you can get.

Preparation and Planing

You have to meet with your base transportation office. Remember however, each branch has their own. For the Army, it’s the Installation Transport Office. The Air Force has the Traffic Management Office. If you are in the Coast Guard, you meet with the Household Goods Shipping Office. If you’re in the Department of Defense, it’s the Joint Personal Property Shipping Office you have to call on. It’s the same for the Navy and Marine Corps. They both have the Personal Property Shipping office as their Installation Transport Office. Each transportation office aids in your move and can also help you find military storage units in your area.

You should also meet with the finance office at whatever base you are currently on. They must help you plan the financial expenses of moving and provide benefit information. Having this all in order will save you in the long run.

Ask Around

The military is huge. Hence you may have battle buddies that went through Basic with you in the area you’re relocating to. They’ll be able to answer any questions you have about where you and your family are going. They can provide you with insight of the base, babysitting services, and military storage unit services at the location.

Plan what you have to do with what offers are available to you. If you’re on a detail or are set for deployment, you have the option to store your belongings in military storage units that’s in the nearest city where your base is. For those stationed in Ft. Bliss, that would be El Paso, Texas. For soldiers stationed in Ft. Lee, that would be Petersburg, Virginia. The thing about these military cities: they, by default, cater to the military for business. Look around in your area. There are bound to be services that have military storage units available, and at a discount.

What about your car?

If you live in the barracks, keeping your car sitting in the lot for the 4 months to 12 months you may be away is risky. Auto storage is your best bet, and discounts for military personnel are easy to find. Get all information you can about these services and what benefits they provide.

Now you know what you’re looking for, and how to find it. You choose from an array of military storage units, but what’s best for you and yours? Also, you have to know how much you have to store and you have to be practical. You don’t want to pay more than you have to for space you don’t need. As an example, a 5′ x 5′ closet-size unit would be perfect for personal items and boxes of clothes or small furniture. The contents of a one bedroom apartment, a 10′ x 10′ unit is perfect. Learn what size you will need.

Consider your Needs

Consider whether or not you need a climate-controlled storage unit. This, of course, will be more expensive, but considering on what you have, it may be non-negotiable. Electronics, paperwork, and upholstered furniture are the type of items that need to be in a climate-controlled environment. Keep in mind, you may be away for a minimum of 6 months. That’s a long time.

Getting whatever insurance these storage unit facilities offer isn’t a bad idea, either. There are lots of things that could happen in the months you are deployed or the weeks between moving. Paying just a little more for that added protection will help ease some of the stress of the move. Just knowing that you will be properly reimbursed in the event something happens should give you much need ease. Just something else to consider.

All in all, the life of a soldier is random and filled with surprises. These services know that. They cater to the military because of the business it gives them. Moving can be very expensive, and in the military it is inevitable. Uprooting yourself and your family can be hard on you all. But you are not alone. So, it doesn’t have to be impossible. Just do what you do best: plan and utilize the resources at your disposal for an optimal outcome. Godspeed to you and thank you for your service.

If you are stationed in Southern California, look us up. Better yet, call us at 1-877-269-6461. We can answer many questions you may have. We provide both: storage and moving. However, our primary focus is you! Even if you decide to go another route, Box-n-Go still wants to offer our assistance and knowledge.

How To Read a Moving Contract

You should never sign any legal document unless you understand what it says. Once all the parties sign it, you must abide by terms within that document. That being said, when you decide to move and hire movers to do the job, you will be required to sign a moving contract. If movers are not asking you to enter into a contractual agreement, you should choose another moving company.

Moving contracts outline the terms and conditions of the move and all the services to be provided. These are legally binding agreements. So you should not sign unless you understand everything it contains and exactly what those things mean.

The following are brief descriptions of the sections you should find in any moving contract. The actual contract you sign may vary slightly depending on the states involved. Also the specifics of your move, but all the sections outlined below should be included.

Services Description

This is usually the first section of the contract. It will detail the services the moving company is providing as well as your initial and final destination. You should look this over carefully. This is to ensure every service you expect is included. You have the right to request additional services. However, be aware that anything you add may void the initial estimate and require a new one.

Services Scope

This section gives you a step by step outline of what will take place during the move. There may actually be a numbered list that includes items like inventorying and loading and unloading. There will probably be a statement regarding who will be responsible for packing the items.

If you are doing this yourself, you must have everything ready to go when the movers arrive to load the van. There will be a statement declaring that the moving company crew will take all necessary precautions to prevent items from being damaged during the unloading process.

Payment

This very important section outlines how you are paying for the moving services. Pay special attention to the terms in this section,. Because once you have signed the contract you are obligated to pay the amount listed or to meet the specific pricing structure set out.

You may have agreed to a set price or a fixed or hourly rate. If you have settled on an hourly rate this section is where you will find a breakdown. Details on how that rate will be calculated. If you have any questions at all about pricing, ask them before you sign the contract and not after.

Terms

The terms section is usually short and contains the statement that the contract is valid only until the services are completed. There’s not much to see here. But you should still read it in its entirety. Also make sure you don’t have any questions.

Confidentiality

This section is standard in all kinds of contracts, not just moving ones. It states that the moving company won’t divulge information about you while they are under contract with you,. Such as documents, records, and any notes relevant to your move.

Additional Terms That You Need to Know

Listed below are additional terms you may come across in a moving contract. There may be even more than one contract you need

to sign before the move. Some of the terms can be confusing and be difficult to understand. As long as they are a part of the contract you are expected to sign, it’s important that you completely understand what you are obligating yourself to.

Extra Charges

This section may also be a subsection that includes additional charges you can be liable for. These include unforeseen circumstances that cost the moving company more money. They can be things like having to pack items you were supposed to pack. Also waiting because you weren’t ready when they arrived to load up. As well as the extra time it took to navigate their van through areas that don’t accommodate large vehicles.

Bill of Lading

This is your copy of the contract you sign with the moving company. You will want to put this in a safe place because it also serves as your receipt.

Moving Contract – Binding and Non-Binding Estimates

A binding estimate guarantees that the price you and the moving company agree to is the price you will pay. The only way a binding estimate can change is with an addendum to the contract that all parties sign.

A non-binding estimate is just that. An estimate and not necessarily the price you will pay for the moving company’s services. If your move is an interstate one, you may be protected however. Fortunately for you in 2013 the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration passed a law called the 110% rule. The 110% rule states clients may not need to pay more than 110% of an estimate.

Replacement Values

Moving companies offer their clients two different levels of replacement value protection. You can choose full value coverage or released value coverage. The full value coverage will give you the full replacement value of any item the moving crew damages. Up to a maximum of $100 per pound. If you opt for released value replacement coverage you’ll only get $0.60 a pound. This difference can be important if you have expensive or hard to replace furnishings.

High Value

This section can be included if the moving company decides some of the items they are transporting are especially valuable. There should be a list of what the items are and the value placed on them. You may incur additional expenses for extra packing. Also extra precautions for loading and unloading as well as any unique terms specific to your items.

Moving Contract – Charges for line haul

These are charges related to the distance of the move and the gross weight of the load.

Valuation

This section details the value of the items included in your move. If the items are damaged during the move, you won’t be able to claim an amount more than the valuation amount in the contract.

Any kind of move is stressful. Hiring a moving company to do the heavy lifting and handle the transportation from one location to the other can relieve a lot of your headaches. You just have to remember that moving companies are in the business to make money.

The contracts they present to clients have their best interests in mind, not yours. Before you sign anything, make sure you understand all the terms and conditions. As well as that they reflect all the verbal agreements you made in advance of the move.

How to Save When Moving

Moving is expensive. Local moves generally cost around $1550 if you are moving 2 or 3 bedrooms with a total weight of 7500 pounds. If you are moving a long distance, you can expect to pay around $5000 for a distance of up to 1000 miles with the same poundage. You would be wise to shop around before you may any final decisions.

That means contacting at least 3 moving companies and get estimates from each one before you decide which one best fits your needs. You have the right to ask for a copy of a blank contract. This way you can make sure you understand exactly what it contains. Like whether or not estimates are binding or non-binding. Asking questions, in the beginning, is a smarter idea than regretting not asking them after the fact.

Box-n-Go Storage And Moving

When it comes to moving, you always have lots of options. However, with Box-n-Go, you get even more flexibility. This is because Box-n-go offers you an option to do some of the work your self and save. For instance you can easily take apart your furniture. You can pack most of your belonging. You can even load yourself. All these tasks can add up to quite a few dollars saved. With Box-n-Go you have an option of using our conveniently sized storage containers. Each can accommodate the contents of one to one and a half rooms. You load the content at your origin and unload at your destination. Simple.

Of course if you wish to have a full service move, we can help you there as well. Even if you want to do some work like packing. And leave loading to the pros, we can certainly accommodate your needs.

All the options are yours. Simply call us at 1-877-269-6461 and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with a quote.

How do I schedule a military move

Military Storage of Household Goods – Schedule Your Move

After you receive orders it is important to develop a plan to prepare for the move. Especially so if your move involves military storage of household goods. When you have your orders, you can log in to the DPS and schedule the move. You need the details about the move for accuracy. The details you need to address are included below.

1. Your phone number
2. Pickup date and time
3. Drop off time and location
4. Special items
5. Professional gear
6. The name of the moving company you prefer

If you have not decided on a new home, you can list the new base and update this information after you have decided where you will live.
The pickup date is the day that the truck will load your items for the move. The packing days are the days before the move occurs.

It is important to make sure your home is ready prior to pack for the move. It may help to list the items you will take based on what they document in your orders.
Prior to the move the moving company will come to complete a survey and review the weights of your items to update the information that you entered in the DPS.

Packing

The packers will come to help you pack your belongings on the day you choose. This is a good time to ask family or friends to come to supervise the packers to make sure they pack your items. You should review the boxes to make sure they have the correct content. If you have items going to storage, then you need to mark these items for the military storage of household goods.

You must be available on the date and time the packers come to pack your items. The packers will contact you before they arrive to pack your home. It may be a good idea to have another person listed as a contact if you have any issues so the company can reach someone if there is an issue.

Military Storage of Household Goods – Moving Day

This is the day that they load your items on the delivery truck and moved to the new location. The driver will go over the inventory of items you have scheduled to move. They will document any existing damage to the items and will have you sign off on the inventory prior to leaving your home. If you have any discrepancies, you need to document this on the inventory and then sign off on the form. You should walk through your home with the driver to make sure they packed all your items designated for the move. It’s necessary to inspect the truck to make your items are on the truck.

If you have items you need to store, you can get military storage of household goods. The military will store these items for six months. They can store items in the following places.

• The location where you entered the military
• Your initial active duty location

Retirees and Involuntary Separatees

Military storage of household goods occurs for eligible retirees and involuntary separatees. They store these items for a maximum of one year. They store items in the following places.

1. The place where you lived when you entered the military
2. Your first active-duty location
3. Any location in the United States

Communicate with Driver

It is important to communicate with the driver during the delivery. The driver may need to contact you during the move with new information as you move to your new location. You will need to arrive at your new home before the driver so they don’t take your property to a storage facility. If you have planned to take your belongings to a location for military storage of household goods, then you have more time to arrive at your new location. If a driver contacts you, then you must return their call within two hours. Failure to contact the driver may cause your items being placed in storage, which may cause you to get your items a few weeks after the move. It is important to keep all receipts during the move so you can file for reimbursement for things such as tolls, gas, and hotel rooms.

Military Storage of Household Goods – Delivery

You will need to inventory your delivered items and confirm that everything arrived. There are multiple unpacking options available to you when the items arrive. The movers can assemble large items for you. They can do a total unpack or you can have them unpack certain items.

Communicate with Driver

It is important to communicate with the driver during the delivery. The driver may need to contact you during the move with new information as you move to your new location. You will need to arrive at your new home before the driver, so they don’t take your property to a storage facility. If you have planned to take your belongings a location for military storage of household goods, then you have more time to arrive at your new location. If a driver contacts you, then you must return their call within two hours. Failure to contact the driver may cause your items being placed in storage, which may cause you to get your items a few weeks after the move. It is important to keep all receipts during the move so you can file for reimbursement for things such as tolls, gas, and hotel rooms.

Military Storage of Household Goods – Post Move Requirements

The movers do not have to come back to assist you with the clean-up process. They are only responsible for helping you with the clean up that occurs when they help you unpack your items. If you need to file a loss/damage form, you must complete this within the 75 days allotted and complete the claim within 90 days for reimbursement. If you file the claim late, then you will only get the value of items within two years of the delivery.

The last phase of the move is to complete a survey about your move. By completing the survey, this helps to determine if a moving company should continue to provide services to military families. They may suspend companies that provide bad delivery service on a permanent or short term basis. If the move was negative, please indicate this on the survey.

Box-n-Go For All Your Storage and Moving Needs

Box-n-Go is portable storage company that is ready to serve all your storage and moving needs. We can offer you many flexible and affordable options. Simply call us at 1-877-269-6461 and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Also, we will do our best to come up with a proper solution to your needs.