The Moving Process

Next up among the professionals assigned to service your shipment is the driver or crew leader, his role in your move encompasses so much more than just driving. He, of course, is in charge of the physical moving process. But, he also is responsible for loading your goods at origin, driving the van, and delivering your belongings—safe and sound—into your new home. He will be assisted in the loading and unloading processes by a crew of professional movers. Depending on the size of your move, there may be 2 to 6 men on the crew. Before loading begins, the driver will take special precautions to protect your home, as well as its contents. This may include laying down "floor runners" to protect carpets and flooring in entryways, hallways, and other high-traffic areas, as well as padding banisters and doorways to avoid marring walls and woodwork.

If you cannot be present at the time of loading, arrange for a responsible person to act as your agent in signing both the bill of lading and the inventory list. So there is no misunderstanding, it is very important that you understand the transit coverage option which you selected before signing the bill of lading to avoid any questions should a claim occur. Furniture is wrapped with specially constructed cloth pads or "blankets" to protect it from scratches, dents, dirt, etc. Even items such as gardening tools are padded to prevent them from scratching or soiling other items in the shipment. Tightly loaded tiers—with heavy articles loaded on the bottom—will be constructed inside the van to avoid jarring or shifting while on the road.

The vans themselves, in addition to being quite spacious, are specially designed and equipped to accommodate the safe transportation of household goods. Specifically, trailer walls and doors are lined with logistical tracks, enabling shipments to be secured further with heavy nylon straps. The vans have air-ride suspension to minimize vibrations as your goods are driven to your new home. Once the van and crew arrive at your destination, they will begin the unloading process. Once again, this can be a busy time for you, so it is helpful if you plan in advance as to how you would like the various furniture arranged in the rooms. After everything has been loaded in the van, it’s a good idea for you and the crew to take one last walk through your house to make sure that nothing has been overlooked. As the crew brings your possessions into the home, they will be counting on your to direct as to where the items should be placed. They will also be happy to reassemble or arrange items that they had disassembled at your origin residence. Once the crew have unloaded the van they will walk through your home with you to verify that everything is satisfactory. Should you discover that something is damaged be sure to point the specific item out to the driver, so he can make the appropriate notation on the paperwork before you sign the inventories. Should you have a damaged item to claim, please contact Hagemaster’s corporate offices (1-800-331-5795) as soon as possible, and one of our customer service representatives representatives will be there to assist you.