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In today’s world, space is an essential and premium commodity, so much so that many people have to turn to self-storage facilities to rent storage space.  If you lack space at home, are in the middle of a move, or are looking for a space to store belongings, understanding the specific details of renting a storage unit is imperative. This article will cover many different factors of renting a storage unit and even tips and tricks to help you maximize your storage rental investment. Whether you are a storage veteran or completely new to the process, there is always something valuable to learn about this specific aspect of modern living.

What is a Storage Unit

A storage unit is a piece of rented space, usually within a self-storage facility, designed to provide individuals, businesses, or organizations with a place to store their belongings. The units come in many sizes and configurations and could be used for short-term and long-term storage needs. The most common reasons to use the storage unit are personal storage, moving or relocating, business storage, renovations, vehicle storage, and document and archive storage.

The storage units are usually rented on a month-to-month basis, depending on what type of storage the unit is used for. Some companies have longer lease agreements with storage facilities for better rates. It is common to find storage units behind gated facilities with excellent security features like surveillance cameras.

How do Storage Units Work?

Storage units provide individuals, businesses, and organizations with a safe and convenient place to store their personal belongings, possessions, or even inventory. The following is a step-by-step guide for how the storage units work.

1. Renting A Unit

   1. It begins with researching storage facilities in your area. After comparing the pros and cons of the different facilities, choose the facility that meets your needs the most.
   2. Once you have chosen the storage facility, you need to contact that manager to inquire about availability, sizes, and rental rates.

2. Signing a Rental Agreement

   After selecting your facility and specific storage unit, you will need to sign a rental agreement. The rental agreement will typically have your storage rental’s particular terms and conditions. This usually includes the monthly rent, payment due dates, and the security deposit required.

3. Identification and Contact Information

   During the rental agreement, you must provide a government-issued form of identification like a driver’s license and contact information.

4. Security Access

   After you have signed the rental agreement, you will get a key, lock, and a security card/access code is required.

5. Moving In

   After you access your storage unit, you start moving in your belongings! Some facilities may even offer free truck rentals, dollies, or carts to help with the move-in process.

6. Accessing Your Unit

   Renters can access their units during the facility’s operating hours.

7. Moving Out

   Remember to check your rental agreement if you no longer need the storage unit. Some agreements have a specified process for how to end the rental agreement. You can move your belongings out after you have notified the storage facility. Remember to completely clean the unit and leave it just as it was when you first moved in. Once you are ready to move on from the team, remember to return the key and lock for the storage unit.

What should I look for in a Storage Unit?

If you are beginning your search for a storage unit, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find the storage facility that best meets your needs.

• Location is a major factor in choosing a conveniently located facility.
• Size – It helps to understand what size storage unit you need. It is pointless to pay for a team that is either too small or too big for your belongings.
• Security – regardless of your storage, security should be a major factor. Choosing a facility with better security measures like gated access, video monitoring, well-lit premises, and even on-site personnel is important.
• Access Hours – Each facility is different; some facilities offer 24-hour access while others have a stricter time for access.
• Climate-Controlled Storage Unit – if you store sensitive items like electronics, artwork, or furniture, choosing a unit with climate control will help protect your belongings. Climate-controlled units are typically more expensive. However, if you plan to store furniture or are in an area with extreme temperatures, this may be necessary.
• Insurance – Many storage facilities offer insurance options for your items, which may be helpful based on your storage needs.
• Pricing and Fees – this is another major section, as it is vital to understand the facility’s monthly rent and any other fees.

Tips for Renting a Storage Unit

While the renting process is fairly straightforward, there are a few specific tips to apply when going through the process.

1. Determine Your Specific Needs – it helps to make a list of items you plan to store, giving you an idea of the unit size required.
2. Research Facilities – Before using a storage facility, compare the different facilities near you and the pros and cons of each facility.
3. Visit in Person – visiting the facility in Person will give you a much better picture of how reputable the facility is.
4. Check Accessibility – ensure the facility’s access hours align with your schedule. If your facility offers 24-hour access, this is not a major issue for you.
5. Read the Rental Agreement – while this may seem redundant, it is important to read the rental agreement and pay attention to the specific terms, rental duration, and any restrictions on the stored items.

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Factors that Affect Your Storage Unit Prices

There are many different factors that will determine the price of a storage unit. First and foremost, the location will heavily influence the price of a storage unit. Furthermore, the unit size and type of unit will also play a major factor. The duration of your rental agreement will also play a factor; longer contracts will earn better rates. The facility amenities and security measures will influence the price, the more amenities and security measures, the higher the price. Finally, the unit availability could affect the price as the laws of supply and demand come into play here!

Contact Jordan River Moving for Renting a Storage Unit

In conclusion, whether you’re preparing for a move, decluttering your living space, or need a secure location for your belongings, renting a storage unit is the solution you’re looking for. Jordan River Moving is a top choice for all your storage needs. With a solid reputation for excellence, our facilities offer advanced security, flexible options, and a dedicated team ready to assist you. Take the next step toward a clutter-free, organized life by contacting Jordan River Moving today and experience the convenience and peace of mind of choosing a trusted partner for your storage requirements. Your possessions deserve the best, and Jordan River Moving is here to provide it.

Did you originally rent a cheaper office space in a low-traffic spot when your budget was tight? Maybe you’ve always had plenty of customers but want to move to a larger space for your growing company. Whatever your reason, any successful office relocation begins with the appropriate office moving checklist.

At Jordan River Moving and Storage, our local commercial movers in Seattle, Portland, Kirkland, and Columbia understand moving isn’t as simple as packing everything into boxes. We also know it takes months of advanced planning to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Below, we share what we’ve learned about the process, including the must-dos on your checklist for office moves.

How to Prepare for an Office Move

Start preparing at least 12 months before the move by checking when your lease is up since leaving early may cost you your deposit. And if the space you’re leaving isn’t up to par, you may be financially responsible for anything from equipment breakages to chipped walls and scuffed floors. It’s far easier to legally end your lease with as few costs as possible to set aside more funds toward the relocation.

You might also want to use this time to alert others of the move. Alongside providing official notice to your property manager or landlord, relay vital dates to your employees, such as:

• Current lease termination date
• New lease signing date
• Desired moving day

Keeping them in the loop as plans unfold streamlines the decommissioning plan. They can also help iron out the finer details, like adding new contact information to ads or updating the website.

Planning a Successful Office Relocation

Once you understand the timeline, planning an office move is easier with an assigned project manager. They should have outstanding organizational and communication skills to stay within your budget while helping the relocation along. They can also assign decommissioning tasks, from removing logos and replacing bulbs to backing up data, so you won’t lose anything in transition.

A professional moving company could assist with this planning, particularly around safely packing, transferring, and unpacking equipment. The movers will draft a plan with your project manager outlining where and when to move certain items (needed items remain on site longer).

And while you don’t have to hire movers immediately, comparing quotes early gives you options.

The Step-By-Step “Moving Office” Checklist

Once office moving kicks off, a step-by-step office moving checklist helps to prepare both spaces. Some of the checklist items will include the following:

Notify Others of the Change

Once you pin down the new location, let others know of your new address and contact information, including suppliers, vendors, and others, such as:

• Post office
• Bank
• Government departments
• Internet and phone providers
• Companies you have subscriptions or accounts with

After settling into your new space, your new advertisements will also need to relay the location change so that you can retain old customers and find new ones.

Do Another Walk-Through of the New Office to Update Your Moving Office Checklist

You’ve probably already seen the new space, but how thorough was your first look? Revisit it to ensure all electrical and plumbing fixtures are working. However, you should also bring to the new landlord’s attention any hazards that could jeopardize your employees’ health and safety.

Also, get a feel for the floorspace to plan your new design layout. If you’re having trouble placing things for optimal flow or are unsure what to take with you, consider hiring a professional designer.

Deal with Current Inventory Before Moving Office Furniture

Professional designers will help immensely with planning office moves by creating a new layout for your movers to follow. Use this time to review your inventory and determine what you want to take with or throw out. Your office relocation checklist then demands revisiting the mover quotes before moving office furniture or other items from the inventory onto or off of your final list.

Ensure a Cost-Effective Process With the Office Moving On

With the office moving on the bigger and better things, creating a cost-effective move starts by setting a budget to facilitate the transition. How much are you willing to spend on top of the new lease? You should also start preparing (and repairing) your original space before vacating it to prevent unexpected damage costs.

After securing your new office space, research licensed and insured moving teams with competitive rates. Do you want more peace of mind? Put ‘acquire moving coverage’ on your office moving checklist.

Being flexible with your office move plan and budget will also eliminate some of the stress. You may have to cut corners, so consider what is and isn’t negotiable before you start the process.

How Professional Office Relocation Services Can Help

Whether this is your first move or your biggest one yet, a business moving checklist is only the beginning. Hiring professional relocation services allows trained and experienced specialists to facilitate your office’s unique needs with the perfect moving office checklist to achieve your goals.

Why not focus on running your business while the relocation experts do the rest?

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Contact Jordan River Moving and Storage for Office Furniture Moving and Everything in Between

From office moving planning to help with the office furniture moving process, our qualified team has over 20 years in this industry. Our five-star team works from Seattle, WA, Portland, OR, and Columbia, SC, to help local, long-distance, and overseas clients relocate hassle-free.

For help with an office moving checklist or to request a quote, contact Jordan River Moving and Storage today!

What Is Moving Insurance?

One of the greatest concerns homeowners have when moving to a new home is the safety and security of their possessions during the trip. Even a simple move down the street with help from a moving company can result in damaged, lost, or stolen goods. When it does, what course of action does the moving party have?

This is where moving insurance coverage comes into play. Insurance for moving (a.k.a. “valuation”) is how you can account for lost or damaged items after hiring a moving company to help pack and transport your belongings. There are several considerations to make when deciding whether you need moving company insurance coverage and how to choose the most appropriate option for your situation.

Do I Need Moving Insurance?

An important factor with moving insurance coverage is whether you even need it in the first place. Homeowners’ or renters’ insurance often covers belongings when moving, although it may only do so if the move remains local and under the same policy. If you’re moving out of state, it’s critical to read over your insurance policy carefully to prevent surprises.

Moving insurance is sometimes the only way to guarantee you’ll receive compensation for any mishaps while moving to your new home. Here are a few considerations to make when deciding whether you need moving insurance:

• How much your items are worth, together and individually
• Whether you can easily replace damaged property
• The chance of inclement weather like hurricanes, tornadoes, or snowstorms
• The areas you’ll be driving through and staying at for multi-day trips
• Whether the moving truck breaks down or is involved in an accident
• If any of your possessions are stolen during the trip

Types of Moving Insurance to Consider When Hiring Movers

How does moving insurance work? That depends on the moving company you go with and which of its options you choose. If you hire movers and decide to get insurance, it’s important to know what coverage they offer along with their moving services in case of an accident during transportation.

Basic Moving Insurance

Also known as released value protection, this coverage is available at no added cost and provides minimal coverage for your belongings at around 60 cents per pound, regardless of value. So, if you have a five-pound computer chair that costs $300 and it gets lost or damaged in transit, basic moving insurance will only compensate you up to $3. Moving companies must offer released value protection because of a federal law requiring valuation options, but always be sure to ask before committing to a move.

Full-Value Protection

Per its name, full-value protection moving insurance provides complete coverage during transportation. As you might expect, this is the most expensive insurance option, but it provides total peace of mind. If any of your belongings become damaged, lost, or stolen, the mover can repair, replace, or pay you a cash settlement to cover the value. You’ll need to pay one to two percent of the item’s cost upfront to get full-value protection, with moving companies and states often having minimum value requirements.

Third-Party Insurance

Some movers offer additional insurance through a third party. This works similarly to released value protection but adds coverage at a cost. How much coverage you get depends on the moving company’s insurance requirements, so comparing different movers is in your best interest.

Moving Insurance Coverage

Is moving insurance worth it? That depends on your situation. Checking your insurance coverage is vital when moving. This means learning what your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy covers and whether you should seek additional insurance through a mover or third party.

If you choose moving insurance, be aware of the costs so you can make an informed decision. If you must transport several highly valuable items, getting moving insurance coverage is probably in your best interest. This is especially true when looking at full-value protection, which often requires additional costs as a deductible to cover higher-value items.

What Isn’t Covered by a Moving Company?

Insurance isn’t a catch-all when you select a company and policy to cover your property. Sometimes, insurance won’t compensate you for losses or aid you when filing a claim. Your mover may have limited liability if any of the following happen during a move:

• Failing to inform the movers about perishables and hazardous materials
• Packing your own items into boxes to reduce costs
• Not communicating the high value of certain items in writing
• Encountering civil unrest like riots and strikes
• Damage from natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, and tornadoes
• Claims filed outside the company’s policy period

Choose the Best Moving Insurance for Your Needs – Jordan River Moving & Storage

Jordan River Moving & Storage offers the best moving insurance coverage for home and business owners to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish. We understand the risk of transporting your items and go to great lengths to protect them with the utmost professionalism and care. We also know accidents can happen when you least expect them, so we come prepared with various policies to give you peace of mind while moving to your new home.

Reach out to us today through our Contact Us page today to learn more about the coverage and valuation we provide to residents in multiple locations between Washington, Vancouver, and South Carolina. By putting your trust in us, you can focus on what matters most: getting into your new home safely.

Long-distance moves require significant planning and preparation. When moving to a distant city, another state, or even a different country, you won’t be able to make multiple trips. You’ll have to consider how to get all of your possessions safely to your new home while sticking to your timeline.

At first, your move may seem overwhelming. However, the following long-distance tips will ease your worries and streamline the process.

As your trusted long-distance movers, Jordan River Moving & Storage knows what it takes to ensure a successful move. Following our advice for moving long distances from the moment you find your new home ensures a less stressful experience.

Tips To Prepare for a Long-Distance Move

A solid plan is essential when moving long distances. Without one, tasks like packing can seem nearly impossible. The following are some of the most important things to remember and employ as you prepare for your big move.

Make a Moving Plan and Schedule

The first task you should complete as you prepare for your long-distance move is to make a moving plan and schedule. Whether you do so on paper or a spreadsheet, detail everything you need to complete to make the move happen. Then, create a schedule for when you’ll carry out each task.

Visit Your New Home

You should always take a trip to your new home before getting too deep into packing and moving. Scope out the location and get a better sense of the space. This will help you know which items to take from your current house, which to leave behind, and which you’ll need to buy new.

Pre-Packing

You can begin pre-packing as soon as you decide to move. While there are some items you’ll need up until the moving day, others are less vital. Start packing anything you don’t use daily so there’s less to do as moving day approaches.

Stock Up on Packing and Moving Supplies

You’ll need plenty of packing and moving supplies to ensure your possessions are safe and organized. You don’t want to run out of boxes and tape the day before your move. Stock up on all the supplies you’ll need, and remember that it’s better to have too many than not enough.

The following are some of the packing and moving supplies you’ll likely need:

• Boxes, preferably in several different sizes
• Special boxes or crates for electronics, artwork, etc.
• Packing tape and duct tape
• Scissors
• Bubble wrap and wrapping paper
• Permanent markers
• Moving blankets

Declutter Early

One of the more important tips for long-distance moving is to get rid of items you don’t need. As a crucial step, you should start decluttering as early as possible. Mark anything that’s old, broken, or unnecessary. A lighter load will make your long-distance move easier and less expensive.

Sell What You Can

You may have items you don’t need or want or simply aren’t worth bringing to your new home. However, this doesn’t mean they’re worthless. Electronics, furniture, and possessions in fair condition may appeal to others, so hop on an online marketplace and sell whatever you can. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of listing and shipping your items, a good old-fashioned moving sale should do the trick.

Mark Fragile Items

Though it’s one of the more obvious long-distance moving tips, marking fragile items is essential yet easy to forget. You might get caught up in the move and not even realize you packed away fragile items. To be safe, mark all boxes with fragile items and set them aside.

Disassemble and Wrap Furniture

Large furniture can be difficult to move and take up lots of space in a moving truck. Disassembling and wrapping your furniture will make it easier to pack and transport while protecting it from scratches.

Update Documents and Personal Information

Updating documents and personal information is vital for long-distance movers who might be preoccupied with other tasks. You’ll need to update your license and change your postal address to avoid extra stress.

Buy Moving Insurance

If anything goes wrong and you lose or damage your possessions, you want to ensure you have insurance to cover them. Talk to your agent and see what your current home and auto policies cover. While moving companies typically offer some type of insurance policy, you may want to purchase a better plan.

Find Reliable Long-Distance Movers

You certainly can rent a moving truck and attempt to pack and move everything yourself. However, professional long-distance movers and packers will make your life easier and ensure your possessions reach their destination safely. Do some research into different companies, looking at their reviews and the services they offer, to find reliable experts.

How Far in Advance Should You Plan Your Long-Distance Move?

To reiterate one of the most important long-distance moving tips, start planning the move as far in advance as possible. Though you might not be able to plan every detail, taking care of smaller individual tasks makes the entire process easier. The feeling of needing to complete everything at once is overwhelming, so plan early and start checking items off the list.

Benefits of Hiring Movers Who Know Their Stuff

Unless you’ve completed numerous long-distance moves, you likely lack experience. Professional movers, on the other hand, do it for a living. They know specific techniques that help them pack and move more safely, efficiently, and effectively.

By hiring movers who know their stuff, you take some of the burden off your shoulders. You get a team to assist and guide you throughout your long-distance move. Further, you can choose which portions of the packing and moving you want the professionals to handle.

Hire the Long-Distance Experts at Jordan River Moving

We hope these long-distance moving tips help guide you to a simpler and less stressful experience. Start planning early, knock out one task at a time, and get ready to settle into your new home. Contact Jordan River Moving & Storage today to hire professional long-distance movers who will help make the process smoother. Contact us today!

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Complete Guide to Moving Scams: Become an Expert, Not a Victim

It can be easy to fall for a scam when you’re in unfamiliar territory. Most people don’t have much experience with the moving industry because moving isn’t something we always do. As customers, we’re not sure what the price should be, what the process is, the vocabulary, the different types of estimates, and the list goes on! I’m here to help educate you so you don’t fall victim to a moving scam.

Scam #1: The “Binding Estimate” Email

In this blog post, you’ll learn about five extremely common moving scams. I’ll call the first one the “Binding Estimate via Email” scam. People always fall for it because it’s designed to confuse you and take advantage of your lack of understanding of the moving industry. This is a classic bait-and-switch scam. Luckily, you won’t be a victim after reading this article! Read on to learn about this scam and others, how they work, how to avoid them, and how Jordan River Moving can help.

The Scam Setup

Here’s how it starts. You want to move, so you decide to contact a moving company to determine the process. You want to know how much it will cost, when they are available, and other important information. A salesperson answers the phone and asks you for a list of items you need to be moved. You give your best guess based on the number of rooms you have, how many beds, how many couches, some clothes, and dishes. They know you have no idea how much stuff you actually have. But they seem to know what they’re talking about, so no red flags go up. The salesperson uses this information to roughly estimate the number of total boxes you will need to have moved. They will offer you a quote over the phone without seeing your home or items. This “quote or estimate” IS NEVER ACCURATE. The scam moving company will give you a really low estimate and tell you it’s binding, which means you will not pay anything above or below that price. It’s promised to you. They even send you an email telling you it’s binding. And now you’re hooked because there is no such thing as a binding estimate email.

Think about it. It is only possible for a moving company to know exactly how much stuff you need moved by seeing it for themselves, and the only way to do that is by offering you a free in-home visual estimate. If they don’t offer to provide one, you could be dealing with a scammer! A Relocation Specialist at a good moving company will tell you that anything over the phone is just a ballpark estimate. Even an in-home visual estimate is still an… estimate. It takes years of experience, even for trained visual estimators, to learn the skill. Good moving companies tell you the closest estimate you can get is from an in-home visual estimate.

The Reveal

Now, it’s the day of your move. You’re prepared to pay the price listed in your scam “binding estimate” email. The moving company you hired shows up, and gasp! You have way more stuff than they thought (even though they knew this would happen). They might ask you to sign a new estimate form to cover all the “extra” stuff you need moved. There will be a HUGE increase in charges. They might even try to have you sign a blank estimate form. Don’t ever sign a blank form! So now you’re backed into a corner.

Your choices:

1. Cancel the move even though you’re packed and ready to go
2. Try to find another moving company to come right now and do your move
3. Pay whatever they say and get your move completed

Most people choose the third option because they feel like it’s their only choice at that point. Keep reading to see how new regulations and giving yourself a 1-2 day cushion can help you fight this scam.

The Loophole

You’re probably wondering how these scammer moving companies can do this. Why aren’t they getting in trouble or put out of business? Six magic words in their paperwork provide the loophole… “based off the information you provided”. Remember that phone call when you tried listing all the items in your home? Well, now, it’s your fault the “binding estimate” was too low, and the company can legally charge you for the extra items. Want to know the worst part? These companies are backed by a transportation attorney who designs their paperwork. It’s designed to trick, scam, and take advantage of you. It’s also designed to protect the scam company. Don’t worry, we’ll teach you how to fight back!

The Aftermath

So, here you are. You probably feel sad, cheated, and stressed and didn’t budget for this. You might think you have no case for legal action because of the loophole in the paperwork. Chances are, you’ll have a hard time recovering your scammed money and ever trusting movers again. We’re here to help you so you never fall for this scam or any other one in the first place.

How to Avoid This Scam

How could this have been prevented? Yes! Here are my tips:

1. Get an in-home visual estimate to know how much stuff you need moved.
2. Call multiple moving companies for quotes and compare them based on your in-home visual estimated weight.
3. If a moving company’s quote is really low, it could be a scam.
4. Even if a company sends you a “binding estimate via email,” now you know there’s no such thing. A company cannot give you an accurate binding estimate without seeing your stuff in person.
5. Hang up the phone on a company that wants to charge you by cubic feet.
6. Hang up the phone on a company that charges you for a binding estimate.
7. Never pay more than a 10% deposit.
8. Jordan River Moving is able to help many people who have fallen for the “binding estimate” via email scam. The good news is these customers are doing research before the move, so Jordan River is able to educate them by telling them there is no “binding estimate” via email unless the company visually sees your house and items. Customers are saved from the moving day heartache before the scammers can charge the increased fees.
9. Make sure you hire a company that offers a free in-home visual estimate. If they don’t offer one, don’t hire them!
10. Make sure you hire a company that helps you understand that any estimate over the phone is a best-guess estimate. This is true for even the most reputable moving companies.

Become an Expert, Not a Victim

Now that you know all about the “binding estimate via email” scam, from the setup to the reveal, the loophole, the aftermath, and the preventative measures, you won’t fall for it.

Do your research, get an in-home estimate and multiple quotes from reliable moving companies, and avoid being scammed. Read on to learn about other common moving scams and how to avoid them.

Scam #2: The Cubic Feet Scam

The Scam Setup

This scam takes advantage of our lack of knowledge of the shipping world. Shipping should always be based on the amount of weight for the items. In this case, how much your household items weigh should dictate the cost of moving them. The industry standard is weighing a shipment using a certified scale. The military, government, and all reputable moving companies use this method. Scam moving companies use cubic feet as a loophole to lowball the price by quoting you a “price per cubic foot” for your move. Only scam companies will offer you an estimate based on volume (cubic feet) rather than weight.

The Reveal

Here’s how it works. The scam company gives you a quote for 500 cubic feet for your items, meaning they will take up 500 cubic feet of space on the moving truck. On moving day, the scam movers can create holes of empty space by packing the truck to make it look like your stuff takes up more room. These scammers can make 500 cubic feet of boxes look like 1,000 cubic feet. After your items are loaded into the truck, the scam company will tell you that instead of 500 cubic feet, you have 1,000 cubic feet, and now it will cost double the amount you were quoted.

The Loophole

Cubic feet are not a precise measure for moving household items. Scam companies try to convince you that other moving companies who charge by weight will add weight to your shipment and charge you more money. This is absolutely not true. If you want to, you have the right to supervise the weighing of the truck. You can see it empty, then watch the movers load it to see that the weight is fair.

The Aftermath

Your choices are slim once your items are loaded onto the truck. The scammers know this and will use it to exploit you and charge huge fees.

How to Avoid This Scam

This is an easy scam to avoid as long as you know never to hire a company that quotes you based on volume instead of weight.

 Scam #3: The Hostage-Load

The Scam Setup

The hostage scam is heartbreaking. This scam is centered around loading your stuff on the truck first, then the problems begin. The hostage-load scam starts much like the other scams, sometimes with a lowball estimate or any other trick to get you hooked. This scam can be hard to spot unless you know the general signs of a shady moving company. Don’t worry. Keep reading, and you’ll learn all about red flags and how to spot them.

The Reveal

Once your goods are on the truck, scam moving companies have a few tactics. They might tell you right after loading that you owe more money for additional “fees” or unforeseen services. They might demand the extra money right away. Sometimes, they wait until they drive away with all your stuff and then start demanding extra money before delivery, holding your items hostage until you agree to pay.

The Loophole

As with other similar scams, you are at a disadvantage once your items are loaded into the truck. Don’t let the truck leave if you feel something sketchy is happening. You can have the movers unpack everything if you want to.

The Aftermath

The best-case scenario is they deliver your things as agreed, and you’re just out a whole bunch of money. In other variations of this scam, your items could be gone forever.

How to Avoid This Scam

Make sure you understand all fees and charges before you sign the contract. A reputable moving company will ensure you understand the potential for additional costs before signing the contract. Sometimes there will be additional charges for extra flights of stairs, shuttle vehicles upon delivery, or packing materials. A good moving company will ensure you understand this and list the prices in writing when you sign your contract. Never sign a blank form. All of the information should be listed before you sign anything. If you have a new estimate on moving day make sure you’re not signing a blank estimate form.

Scam #4: The Abandon

The Scam Setup

Scam moving companies who run this scam are usually “new” moving companies. They don’t have an established reputation but promise low prices to get you hooked. They can set up shop for a few months and close down before getting caught. Then, they pop up again with a new name but the same old tricks. Here’s how the scam works. The scam moving company collects your money, usually as a large deposit or full payment, before your move. On the day of the move, they load up your stuff, and you never see them again.

The Reveal

You might not find out right away that you’ve been scammed. You might find that it’s suddenly hard to contact the company. Your emails and phone calls go unanswered. Their phone may be out of service, and their offices may be empty. After a while, you realize they’re nowhere to be found, and you have no idea where your stuff is. Sometimes, they leave it packed in the moving truck and abandon it. If you’re “lucky,” they may put it into a storage facility, but they usually won’t tell you that.

The Loophole

It’s relatively easy to set up a moving company. If customers don’t research, these companies can scam hundreds of customers, then go out of business before any consequences.

The Aftermath

This scam is so hard because sometimes your items are just gone. If you get lucky enough to find them, there are often considerable fees to get them out of storage, especially if they have been sitting there for a long time before you find them. Even worse, if your things sit in storage for long enough without payment, the storage company can legally auction them off to make room for paying tenants, and the storage company is none the wiser.

How to Avoid This Scam

There are lots of ways to avoid this scam. Do your research on reputable moving companies. Only hire companies operating for years and with a good reputation. Don’t pay a large deposit or full payment before your items are delivered. Never pay more than a 10% deposit and make sure your deposit is refundable. Don’t pay in cash! If you have an Apple AirTag, put it in one of your boxes to track the shipment, just in case. And trust your gut. If the moving company seems sketchy, they probably are!

Scam #5: The Large Cash Deposit

The Scam Setup

This moving scam is a favorite among scam companies. Here’s how it works. You call the company or contact them online. They give you a quote for your move but require a cash deposit before delivery. Some companies even trick you into agreeing by offering you a special discount by paying this cash deposit. Sometimes, they even ask for the full payment for your move in cash before delivery. At this point, please tell me you’re not falling for this one!

The Reveal

This moving scam can go in many directions from here. After the cash is collected, the company might hold your items hostage, abandon them, refuse delivery, or disappear altogether.

The Loophole

Cash is untraceable. The only ones who know you paid are you and the scammer moving company. It’s tough to prove a transaction took place when it’s done in cash.

The Aftermath

Depending on the scam’s direction, you may lose some cash. You may lose all of your items or both!

How to Avoid This Scam

Any reputable moving company will ask for payment upon delivery. They will not require you to pay in cash or ask for a large deposit. If a moving company only accepts cash, beware! If they ask to be paid in full before your move happens, that’s a big red flag too. Never pay more than a 10% deposit and make sure it’s refundable! Avoid this scam by using a credit card. There will be a transaction record, and if you get scammed, the credit card company can help you fight the scammers.

Avoiding Moving Scams: How to Become an Expert, Not a Victim

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, on average, people lose more than $16,000 per claim to moving fraud and scams. Fight back against scammers with these additional tips from the pros, or better yet, don’t become a victim in the first place.

Be Aware of New Regulations

Times are changing, and there are new Federal regulations for moving companies to help you fight scammers. Here are the most recent changes you might not know about:

1. Moving companies must return your deposit if you request it (as long as you ask before the move). They cannot refuse and keep your money.
2. Moving companies must send you a written estimate to sign three days before your move. Read the written estimate carefully, and don’t sign it if you don’t understand it or if the language is blank or vague. Never sign a blank form!
3. If there are any changes on the day of the move, the moving company must provide a completely new estimate, not a revised one or a change order. If the price goes up significantly- don’t sign it.

If you DO get scammed, contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). As part of the US Department of Transportation, they can help you file a complaint, access state-specific resources, and learn more about moving fraud.

Build In Cushion Time for Your Move

1. Don’t make flight arrangements or any travel arrangements for the day of your move. This locks you into a deadline, and scammers know it. Give yourself 1-2 days of cushion time by planning to stay in a local hotel to ensure the move goes smoothly and to take care of any last-minute details.
2. A moving scam can cost you between $10,000- $20,000. Keep your money away from the scam artists. A few nights in a hotel will allow you to fight back if a company is trying to scam you. The extra cost of the hotel is worth it in the big picture.

Scam companies don’t care about moving your stuff safely. Giving yourself extra days after the move date will allow you to hire another moving company without the pressure of missed flights or dates set in stone. You won’t be as rushed and can hire a reputable moving company.

Use Free Online Research Tools

Interstate movers must be registered with the Federal government and have a U.S. DOT number. You can use the FMCSA search tool to search their database to confirm your mover is registered and view other information about the company.

Understand Your Moving Estimate

Understanding the different types of moving estimates is essential to avoid a moving scam. Educate yourself to choose what’s best for you and be better at spotting a scam. The three most common types of estimates are:

• Binding Estimates
• Non-Binding, Not to Exceed Estimates
• Non-binding Estimates

Other Tips and Red Flags

• Don’t pay cash for your move balance. Cash is impossible to track, making it easier for a scammer to say you never paid them.
• Pay with your credit card whenever possible. Transactions are documented, and you have the credit card company on your side if you get scammed.
• Never sign any vague or blank paperwork.
• Don’t pay a large deposit (nothing over 10%), and definitely NOT in cash.
• Stay away from any moving company that has had multiple name changes.
• Ask the moving company if they will be completing the move or if it will be brokered to another company.
• Binding estimates are free. Avoid any moving company that tries to charge you for a binding estimate.
• Research the moving company’s address using Google’s street view to confirm it’s a legitimate business with business signs and trucks outside.
• Don’t hire a company based on the cost alone. Just because they’re the cheapest doesn’t mean they’re the best! Reputable moving companies cost more than scammers for a good reason.

Related Articles

How Moving Insurance Coverage Works?

The Jordan River Difference

Jordan River Moving has been a trusted company in the moving business for decades. They are a local company, with an excellent reputation as a fair and honest moving company. Visit their website here to see customer testimonials, awards they’ve won, and their many industry certifications. They will make sure you understand your moving estimate and will answer your questions. They offer free in-home estimates. Their Relocation Specialists will tell you that any estimate over the phone is for an estimated weight of your items. If you’re moving long-distance, they weigh your shipment at a certified scale after pickup. Please read our article on Understanding The Different Kinds of Moving Estimates to learn more about moving estimates.

Are you moving? To schedule your free in-home estimate with Jordan River Moving, contact one of their Relocation Specialists today.

Moving and storage go hand in hand. About 42% of renters reported using a storage unit while switching homes. That means you could be packing some boxes for storage when packing to move. Knowing what NOT to pack in those boxes going to storage is equally as important as knowing what TO pack. You could set yourself up for disaster if you’re unaware of everyday items to never send to storage.

Whether you’re planning to keep some items in storage short-term, rent a self-storage unit for a while, or store items in a warehouse with a moving company, you want your stuff unharmed just as you left it. Read this post to learn how to keep mice out, avoid heartache, and keep your valuables safe while being stored. Then, you can pack for storage with these tips in mind.

Keep mice out

Nobody wants to have their things ruined by mice while in storage. Mice can cause extensive damage, leave droppings everywhere, and carry diseases. Yuck! One of the best ways to keep mice out of your stored boxes starts with what NOT to pack. Leave these things out of storage and never invite mice in the first place.

• Food: Mice can smell food from far away. Please don’t give them a reason to investigate your stuff. Don’t put any food in boxes for storage. The experts at Jordan River Moving say do not store food under any circumstances, especially in long-term storage. This includes anything perishable such as cereal, flour, rice, or other dry goods. Even in a plastic container, don’t risk it. To be safe, don’t put any food in storage, no spices, canned food, or pet food. No food at all!
• Scented items: If you can smell it, mice probably can too. This includes scented candles, potpourri, personal care items, essential oils, or anything fragrant.
• If you can pack your items in plastic bins, do it. Mice can easily chew into cardboard boxes, but plastic containers are more of a deterrent. For example, I recommend packing anything mice might like to use for a nest into plastic bins. These items might include clothing, sheets, towels, and pillows, among other things.

When you store with Jordan River Moving, you also get professional pest control services included so you don’t have to worry. They have an extra protection for you.

Avoid heartache

Here’s a rule to follow when packing boxes to be stored: if losing them would break your heart, don’t put them in storage! Even with the best moving and storage companies, mishaps can happen. Life is full of unexpected events, and many things could go wrong with storage. A fire, flood, rodent activity, theft, or even unforeseen financial circumstances could put your items at risk for auction. Even though it probably won’t happen, think about it before you pack. Losing irreplaceable sentimental items can be emotionally devastating. Avoid heartache, and don’t store them in the first place.

• Photos: Including photo albums, baby books, and loose pictures.
• Yearbooks
• Personal mementos 
• Ashes of loved ones: Yes, this does happen. Keep your beloved person’s or pet’s ashes safe by NOT packing any urns or ashes into a storage unit

Keep valuables safe

Your valuables are, well, valuable. If you’re putting them in storage, you’re risking losing them. Imagine if there were a fire or theft. You definitely wouldn’t want to lose your most valuable and hard-to-replace belongings.

• Jewelry: Especially if it’s valuable, sentimental, or both
• Cash and collector coins
• Important Documents: Passports, birth certificates, marriage licenses, visas, and even old identification. You might need this paperwork to get set up in your new home and city, so you’ll want it close by. Also, you wouldn’t want any of it to fall into the hands of someone who may use it to steal your identity!

Pro-tip: No liquids

Packing any liquids in storage can be a big mistake. Liquids can expand and contract with the temperature, especially if your storage unit isn’t climate-controlled. Any leak has the potential to ruin anything the liquid touches. Play it safe and leave the liquids out!

• Shampoo
• Cooking oils
• Bubble bath
• Bottled water
• Bottled dressings and sauces, even if unopened. These also break the no-food rule!
• Cleaning products

Related Articles

How Moving Insurance Coverage Works?
How To Pack Clothes For Moving

Jordan River Moving protects your items

When you store your items with Jordan River Moving, you can breathe easy knowing you and your items are protected. Your stored items are loaded into a sealed wooden vault. The vaults keep your things off the ground so they stay dry and secure. All vaults are stored inside the warehouse facility at Jordan River Moving.

With Jordan River Moving, you also get professional pest control services included! They hire a professional pest control company to monitor their warehouse facilities to stop any problems before they start. Visit Jordan River Moving’s website to read more about its storage facilities.

Pack with intention

You know the old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Boxes tend to compact and crush over time, so make sure you pack them all the way to the top, pack them tight, and don’t leave empty space. Pack smart before you store your items and you’ll be happy you did! Knowing what NOT to pack in your boxes for storage can help you keep mice out, help you avoid heartache, and keep your valuables safe when they are stored.

To learn even more moving and storage tips from the pros at Jordan River Moving, visit our blog.

10 Tips You Need to Know to Avoid a Moving Scam

With moving scams on the rise, it’s more important than ever to know how to avoid becoming a victim. Use these ten tips from Jordan River Moving to avoid common moving scams.

What is a moving scam?

A moving scam is a fraudulent scheme used by dishonest moving companies with the goal of stealing your belongings, money, or both when you’re moving. These scams are becoming more common and expensive to consumers. According to the Washington State BBB, people reported more than $730,000 in losses due to moving scams in 2021. There are several types of moving scams, but essentially, a moving company will give you a low estimate, then ask for more money once you’re hooked. Sometimes they hold your stuff hostage and demand you pay a substantial extra fee; other times, they steal your things altogether. Moving scams are not only financially costly, but can be emotionally devastating.

10 Tips to Avoid a Moving Scam

You can protect yourself and your family from common moving scams with these ten tips.

1. Do your research

Moving companies must have a permit to do business legally. Unlicensed companies are operating illegally and may take advantage of you. If you’re moving in-state, look up your state’s Utilities and Transportation Commission website. For out-of-state moves, you can check a moving company’s permit status with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA). Only hire moving companies who are licensed and operating legally.

2. Avoid moving brokers

Avoid moving brokers at all costs. Moving brokers charge you to connect you with a cheap moving company. These third-party brokers “sell” your move to any moving company they want. When you work with a broker, you are not doing business with the company that will be moving you. Many moving scams result from third-party brokers who hold your stuff hostage and demand additional fees. Ask your moving company if they will be doing the move or if another company will. If the moving company is not doing the move themselves- run!

3. Get recommendations

Another way to avoid a scam is to get recommendations from people who have hired reputable moving companies. You can ask family, friends, neighbors, or your real estate agent for a reliable company. Good moving companies have repeat customers who will recommend them to anyone who asks.

4. Get multiple estimates

Getting a few estimates from different moving companies is a good idea. Most of us don’t move that frequently, so we’re unsure what the cost should be. Estimates from reputable companies should be in the same ballpark. If one seems really low compared to the others, watch out! You could be falling for a scammer.

5. Get your contract in writing

Get everything in writing. Your estimate, contract, and all of the details of your move before the moving company shows up. Don’t wait until your stuff is loaded into the truck! Beware of signing any blank paperwork or anything you don’t fully understand.

6. Get an in-home estimate

To get the best estimate for the price of your move, get an in-home estimate. The trained estimator will be able to give you the most accurate cost estimation. Stay away from any company that wants to charge based on cubic feet, volume, or a list of items. These are huge red flags. Good moving companies should charge based on the actual weight for a long-distance move or the time it takes for the crew to do a local move.

7. Hire local when possible

Local companies want to keep a good reputation in the community. They are less apt to pull tricks on people who live in the same city and risk their reputation. Jordan River Moving helps fight scammers! To see how, visit King 5 News for the full story.

8. Ask questions

Any respectable moving company will happily answer your questions and explain the whole process to you. If a moving company is hard to get in touch with or is evasive about specifics, it could be a sign that they’re not reputable. Jordan River Moving has knowledgeable Relocation Specialists willing to be transparent and answer all your questions.

9. Assess professionalism of the company

Even a brief Google search on a moving company will give you a lot of information and should turn up information about companies that might be sketchy. Consider these questions as you’re looking to hire a moving company. Is there a working website? Does someone answer the phone with the name of the moving company? Does the company have its own trucks with its logo on the side? Do the movers have uniforms? If the company seems unprofessional, they probably are.

10. Trust your gut

If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If a moving company offers you an extremely low price compared to others, promises you an exact price before they see your items, or acts in a way that sends up any red flags, don’t hire them. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when your whole life is packed into a moving truck. To learn more about specific scams, how to spot them, and how to protect yourself, read our Complete Guide to Moving Scams: Become an Expert, Not a Victim.

Hire movers you can trust

Now that you know some tips to keep you safe from scammers, you can feel confident about your next move. For a moving company you know you can trust, hire Jordan River Moving. Their website has testimonials, information to help you every step of the process, and you can connect with a Relocation Specialist who cares about you and your move.

Moving Long-Distance: How Jordan River Moving Wants You To Prepare

Preparing for a long-distance move can seem like a daunting task. Don’t worry. With these tips, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Knowing the specifics on how to prepare for your long-distance move will save you time and stress and answer some common questions whether you’re staying in the same state or moving across the country.

Keep reading to learn how Jordan River Moving wants you to prepare for your long-distance move. From the importance of moving insurance to tips to pack smarter, how to make an in-between kit, how to pack everyday items, how to prepare furniture and appliances, and planning for delivery, we’ve got you covered with almost everything you want to know.

The Importance of Moving Insurance

You don’t need extra stress when preparing to move long-distance. Even with the best moving companies, sometimes damage or loss happens during a move. It can be hard to understand the difference between valuation coverage and moving insurance, but your Relocation Specialist at Jordan River Moving can help you decide what’s best for your situation. I always recommend taking out additional moving insurance to protect your move, especially for long-distance moves. If you’re moving long-distance, items have a higher chance of loss or damage based on the distance they’re traveling. I like the peace of mind that comes with knowing my valuables are protected during a move should a mishap happen. To ensure your move is protected, read our article on Moving Insurance. Remember, insurance must be purchased no later than 48 hours prior to the date of your pick up or the first date of your pickup window.

Packing Smarter

You will need items while the rest of your goods are in transit. Set these items aside so they don’t accidentally get packed or loaded. These might include:

• Cell phones and chargers
• Computers
• Medication
• Important documents
• Cable boxes or modems that may need to be returned to the cable company

Other Tips:

• As you’re packing up the kitchen, keep a list of items you throw away and will want to replace at your new home (condiments, food, pantry staples)
• Make a shopping list of essentials you’ll want to buy immediately (toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent, dish soap, etc.)

There are many items that interstate movers cannot carry. Common items include liquids (including cleaners, liquid soaps, liquors, etc.), live plants, pressurized vessels (propane tanks, etc.), and ammunition. Make other arrangements in advance if you plan to transport these items. To view the complete list of excluded items, read our Hazardous Materials list, before you start packing.

Pack an “In-Between” Kit

When I moved from Washington to Montana, I hired Jordan River Moving, so I understand the challenges of packing for a long-distance move. Here are a few tips that helped me successfully move and enjoy the time between pick up and delivery. I knew we could have a 21-day window between our pickup date in Washington and our delivery date in Montana. With this in mind, I thought of packing as two-fold. I was packing for a three-week “vacation” and packing to move. Make sure you are prepared with everything you might need during the “in-between” time.  

My pro tips:

• Leave out any clothes you want to bring with you for the “in-between” time.
• Consider the weather of your destination while packing. For example, Montana in the spring is much colder than Seattle in the spring. Pack with your destination in mind. 
• If you’re driving to your destination, you can pack boxes with any food you want to keep but don’t want to have loaded on the truck and risk critters getting into it (pantry staples, granola bars, etc.)
• If you plan to stay at your new home right away, bring:
• Sheets, pillows, air mattresses
• A pot and pan 
• A set of dishes or plan for paper plates and plastic utensils
• A ziplock baggie with a few laundry pods, dryer sheets, and dish soap in case you don’t make it to the store immediately. At least you’ll have some essentials. 
• Pack anything you might need for work (laptop, chargers, etc.) 

Before Your Move: How to Pack

Have you ever wondered how movers wish you would pack? Knowing exactly how Jordan River Movers want you to pack will help your move go smoothly from pickup to delivery. Use these specific packing tips directly from the company to breathe easy, knowing you’re prepared.

Boxes

• Pack your boxes full so items don’t move inside the box. Movers stack boxes in the truck, and any empty space at the top of a box has the potential to be compacted.
• Seal boxes shut with tape (nothing should be sticking out of the top).
• Label each box with the name of the room it will go in. No abbreviations. Movers will place each box inside the room you want. How awesome is that?

Filing Cabinets

• Empty the contents and pack into boxes.

Dressers

• Single dressers full of clothes only do not need to be emptied (unless they are presswood). Movers will saran wrap the drawers in place and wrap the dresser in a moving blanket. Upon delivery, you just cut off the plastic wrap to unpack, and your dresser is ready!
• If you have anything besides clothes in a dresser (books, pictures, etc.), you must empty the dresser and pack these items into boxes.
• Double and triple dressers must be emptied.

IKEA and Presswood Furniture

I love it as much as the next person, but let’s face it. The DIY install and presswood don’t make it the sturdiest furniture- especially for a long-distance move. Before the move, the foreman will point out any presswood furniture, so you’re on the same page about the risks of moving it. I’ve had Jordan River move me several times locally, and I’ve never had an issue. When I moved long-distance I got rid of a lot of my presswood furniture, knowing it might not hold up to the miles in the truck. I figured the money I saved on the weight of my shipment would be worth it.

• Jordan River recommends any furniture of this type be emptied and packed into boxes- even single dressers.

Mattresses

• Movers use mattress bags to protect your mattress. Trust me. You want this, especially for a long distance move.
• The bags are cheap; your moving crew will have them on the truck. You pay at the end of your move as part of the charge for any extra materials used.
• If you want to buy your own mattress bags, you can. The movers will gladly use them. In my experience, the price isn’t much different, so I always use their bags.

If you REALLY don’t want to protect your mattress, you will have to sign a paper releasing liability for damage. My advice is to use the bag.

Lawnmowers, Edgers, Scooters, and Motorcycles

• All gas tanks must be drained.

Firearms

• If you’re transporting firearms, they must be secured in a gun case or safe before the movers’ arrival.
• Ammunition cannot be shipped with firearms.

Packing Materials

• Sometimes the movers must use extra materials to protect items such as glass tables and tv screens. The charge will vary depending on the amount used.
• You want this. The charges are never super expensive, and you want your items packed and moved without damage.
• The moving truck is stocked with various boxes and packing materials that can be used at your request. The foreman will have a price list on the Bill of Lading.
• Pro tip- if you know you’ll need extra packing materials like wardrobe boxes, call ahead so they can make sure to put enough of them on the truck.

Visit the website to find more packing tips from Jordan River Moving.

How to Prepare Your Furniture

Jordan River Moving does an excellent job protecting and moving your items, especially furniture. When you see the movers wrapping everything up with padded moving blankets and tape, you will be amazed at how quickly and effectively they prepare your belongings for safe travel. The moving blankets are free to use because the movers will unwrap your furniture and take the blankets back upon delivery.

What to know:

• Jordan River will handle basic disassembly and reassembly of furniture (as long as it doesn’t require special tools). 
• Pro tip- pack a clean set of sheets somewhere easily accessible so you can make your bed on delivery day once it’s set up. Then you won’t have to worry about it when you’re tired from unpacking the first night. You’re welcome.

How to Prepare Your Appliances

• Disconnect all appliances (or hire a serviceman) before movers arrive for pickup.
• Freezers and refrigerators must be emptied and defrosted.
• Jordan River will not uninstall or reinstall appliances that require special tools.

Planning for Delivery

There are some details you’ll want to have handled before your pickup day. Your Relocation Specialist will go over this information with you and can help answer any questions you have, but here are some common ones:

• Jordan River guarantees delivery within 21 days of your “first available” date. This is the first date you will be available to receive your delivery at the new address. This timeframe may change based on the time of year, weather conditions, road conditions, acts of God, delivery schedule, geographic location of the move, and other unknown factors.
• Be patient and flexible. You have wisely packed an in-between kit, so you’re prepared to wait while your items are in transit.
• Be prepared to provide the “first available” date at the pickup. The date you provide is the first date in the 21-day period in which Jordan River guarantees delivery. Please refer to your paperwork for more details.
• You can pay extra for “guaranteed” service on or between agreed dates. This optional service guarantees that your shipment will be picked up, transported to the destination, and delivered on specific guaranteed dates. It will cost you a lot for this service. Ask your Relocation Specialist about details.
• Jordan River will charge if they’re required to use more than one flight of stairs or an elevator at delivery. If you know these charges will occur, let the office know in advance so they can let you know what the charges will be. You want to avoid any surprises at delivery!

Planning for Payment

Planning ahead for your long-distance move payment is essential. Please note Jordan River Moving cannot accept personal checks as payment for a move.

Long-Distance Move Payment

• • Payment is due at delivery.
  • You will be given your balance the following business day after pickup.
  • Accepted forms of payment are cash, cashier’s check, postal money order, credit card (with 2.5% fee), Zelle, or wire transfer.
  • Any payments by credit card or wire transfer must be made at least 2 business days prior to delivery so the office can confirm payment is received and notify the driver.
  • Zelle payments must be made at least 24 hours in advance.
  • You don’t want to be stuck waiting (and paying by the hour) for the Jordan River office to open for payment confirmation- especially if you’re in a different time zone!
  • *Important note about Zelle- there are limits on the amount you can transfer per day, so check with your bank to see what they allow.
• Plan ahead and pay in advance, no matter the method you choose!
• All credit card payments are subject to a 2.5% document handling and processing fee.
• You will also receive an email with all of the payment options (including the credit card payment link) when the office calls to confirm your delivery address and gives you the balance due.
• Once they have a delivery date range, the office will follow up with a reminder email including all payment options.
• Please note that payment must be received in full before the driver can unload at delivery.
• Are you wondering how much you should tip your movers? Our article on How Much You Should Tip Movers might be helpful. Movers always appreciate tips, and for a long-distance move I tipped the movers at pickup and delivery. If you want to tip your movers, have some cash on hand for moving day.
• Please take the time to read the Movers Rights and Responsibilities brochure.

Questions You May Have Before the Move

1. What if I realize I must make an extra stop at a storage unit before or after my pick-up? It’s usually no problem, but call your Relocation Specialist as soon as possible. They will have to book more time for your pick-up to accommodate the extra stop.
2.  Will the movers take their shoes off inside my home? Nope. They can’t, and won’t, for insurance purposes and safety. Hardwood floor and carpet protection is available, but make sure you ask your foreman about it when the movers arrive before your move begins.
3. What if I have items I don’t want moved? Mark them with colored stickers or Post-it notes. Make it obvious so it’s easy and saves everyone time.
4. Will the movers put the furniture in the correct rooms in my new home? Yes. To prepare for your move, make a plan for which rooms you want furniture items placed in. Delivery will be faster, and you will be happy you don’t have to rearrange anything after the movers leave.
5. Should I reserve the elevator for pick-up day? Yes! If you have an elevator at pick up or delivery, reserve it in advance and tell your Relocation Specialist if there are any time restrictions.
6. Where will the moving truck park? Ensure ample space for the moving truck to park at the pick-up and delivery locations. One benefit of getting an in-home estimate before your move- you can ask the estimator where he thinks the truck should park. He will note any potential access issues and inform the movers before your move. If you need to block off any part of the street for the moving truck, sort it out before your pick-up day.
7. Can the movers uninstall or reinstall my shelving units, mounted cabinets, and TV mountings? No. If you want these things moved, you should detach them beforehand. The same goes for anything connected to the physical structure of your home.
8. What about my trampoline, big toy, crib, and other baby/child-related items? Jordan River cannot reassemble these items for liability reasons. If you want them moved, please disassemble them ahead of time.
9. Can Jordan River move my plants? Not for a long-distance move. You will need to make other arrangements in advance to transport them.

Can I buy extra valuation coverage or moving insurance on the day of my move? No! You must purchase moving insurance two days before your pick-up date. Some renters and homeowners insurance may provide coverage during a move. Call your insurance agent to find out. For additional coverage options, ask your Relocation Specialist. To learn more about moving insurance and valuation coverage, read our article about Protecting Your Move with Moving Insurance.

The Night Before Your Pick-Up

• Jordan River Moving makes the schedule the day before your pick-up and will call you with their estimated arrival time.
• If you think an area might be overlooked or forgotten (attic, garden shed), leave yourself a note or reminder to check these areas before the movers leave on your pick-up day.

You’re all set!

Knowing how Jordan River Moving wants you to prepare for your long-distance move will make for a successful move. From the importance of moving insurance to tips to pack smarter, how to make an “in-between” kit, how to pack everyday items, how to prepare furniture and appliances, and planning for delivery, you’re ready for your long-distance move.

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful, and with extra preparation, you can avoid any potential problems. The Relocation Specialists at Jordan River Moving are here to help, contact one now.

To prepare for the next step in your long-distance move, read our article, What to Expect on Pick Up and Delivery Days for a Long Distance Move.

Are you considering moving to Portland, Oregon? Or are you interested in visiting Rose City? Either way, Portland has something for everybody: countless historic neighborhoods featuring wonderful nightlife, tasty restaurants, and, most of all, splendid people.

Before searching “best area to stay in Portland,” read Jordan City Moving’s guide to the best neighborhoods Portland has to offer.

Neighborhoods in Portland

If you’re wondering how many people live in Portland, it is a medium-sized city home to over 662,000 residents. It’s a one-of-a-kind, modern place with a distinct quirkiness to it, as many artists, writers, and musicians call it home. However, there are plenty of families, as Portland’s great school system and safe, green neighborhoods attract people from far and wide, with each locale functioning almost like a mini-cities in Portland.

If you’re asking, “Is Portland a good place to live?” the answer is yes! Portland is a welcoming city with lots to offer, regardless of your age or lifestyle.

Best Places for Living in Portland, Oregon

When exploring the best Portland neighborhoods, consider the following areas.

Laurelhurst

Laurelhurst is an old-school place with timeless charm. Stately, beautiful Victorian homes and kitschy locales, like hip restaurants and bars, line this area’s splendid streets. It’s a popular place for young professionals to live, as it’s a stone’s throw away from downtown Portland.

Sellwood-Moreland

When considering the best neighborhoods in Portland, OR, look at Sellwood-Moreland. Countless families move to this cozy neighborhood due to its affordability and wonderful schools. It’s also one of the safest neighborhoods in Portland, so you can rest easy at night knowing you’re safe.

Perhaps the most wonderful part about Sellwood-Moreland is its ties to history. Where else in Portland can you find an amusement park that’s been open since 1905 and a movie theater that’s shown movies since Calvin Coolidge was president?

The Pearl District

Located right next to downtown, the Pearl District provides an urban yet close-knit environment. Many of the area’s buildings are repurposed industrial warehouses, giving it a uniquely old-school vibe. It’s home to countless restaurants, breweries, and boutiques, such as Lovejoy Bakers and Sisters Coffee.

The Pearl District also has great spots like Ground Kontrol, an 80s-themed arcade, the Lan Su Chinese Gardens, Darcelles XV, and the world-renowned Powell’s Book Store. There’s no way you’ll run out of things to do when living in the Pearl District.

Northwest District

Regarding the best neighborhoods in Portland, OR, the Northwest District is hard to beat. It’s an incredibly walkable, friendly area with every amenity you can think of, including grocery stores, libraries, bookstores, bars, and more. You’ll be aching to check out awesome restaurants like Ken’s Bakery, Life of Pie Pizza, and Papa Haydn.

Best of all, the Northwest District has excellent public schools and comfortingly low crime rates, making it a stellar choice for families looking to move to Portland. If you’re interested in a green, European-style neighborhood that’s one of the best places to live in Portland, the Northwest District is right up your alley.

Best Parks in Portland, OR

Many recognize Portland as Rose City for a reason. There are countless parks, arboretums, and wildlife refuges spread throughout the city.

For instance, Forest Park offers 70 miles of walking and biking trails amidst the luscious greenery of the Pacific Northwest, while Washington Park has an International Rose Garden and a zoo. Other great parks throughout Portland include the Portland Japanese Garden, which has a wide variety of Japanese plants like bamboo and cherry blossoms, as well as the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge.

Best Shopping in Portland

Are you itching for a shopping spree? Then you’ll want to check out the shops on NW 21st and NW 23rd in the Northwest District. Great stores around here include Tender Loving Empire and Crossroads Trading.

Meanwhile, Downtown Portland has countless art galleries, craft shops, and festivals going on here, such as the Portland Saturday Market and Pioneer Courthouse Square.

Interested in other parts of town? Check out SE Hawthorne Blvd, SE Belmont Street, and SE Division Street on the South Waterfront, as well as the arts district along NE Alberta Street. These are some of the best places in Portland for shopping!

Best Places to Work in Portland

Generally, most of Portland’s businesses, tech companies, and employers are in the Downtown area. However, if you’re a healthcare worker, you’ll likely find a great job at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU).

Nicest Restaurants in Portland, Oregon

It’s hard to pick the single nicest restaurant in Portland, as there are so many to choose from! Portland pizza lovers swear by Apizza Scholls and Pyro Pizza, while Mee-Sen Thai Eatery provides delectable Northern Thai dishes.

However, if we had to pick the best restaurant, we’d pick Andina, an inspired, delicious Peruvian restaurant located in the Pearl District. It’s a great family-friendly restaurant in Portland, perfect for people of all ages.

Suburbs of Portland, OR

If you’re interested in quality schools, parks, and museums in Portland, the city has several great suburbs to choose from. Sellwood-Moreland, Mississippi Avenue, Laurelhurst, and the Northwest District are among the best places in the country for suburban living. These are some of the best neighborhoods in Portland for a slower-paced, more family-friendly lifestyle.

Best Bars in Portland for Young Adults

Every neighborhood has great bars, such as Kay’s on Milwaukie Avenue in Sellwood-Moreland, or 10 Barrel Brewing in the Pearl District. Mississippi Avenue and the Alberta Arts District feature trendy spots like Teote Mezcaleria and Prost! Marketplace, and Stormbreaker Breaking. In Southeast Portland, along the river, you can find even more great bars for young people, like Rontoms, Loyal Legion, and Sapphire Hotel.

Finding Portland Moving Company

After reading about the best neighborhoods in Portland, OR, you’re probably itching to move. If so, you need the right moving company to help you settle into your new home.

At Jordan River Moving & Storage, we offer quality local and long-distance moving services throughout the Portland area, helping newcomers start their lives in Rose City. Contact us online or call us to learn more!

Useful Resources

Senior Movers

You’ve hired Jordan River Moving for a long-distance move, and this article is for you! For a
long-distance move, there are really two different moving days. You have the day of pick up
and the day of delivery. If you don’t know what to expect on these days, you could be causing
yourself unnecessary stress and anxiety. Don’t worry. I’ll walk you through the process and tell
you everything you need to know from start to finish. Moving long distances is a process, but it
can be more enjoyable if you know what to expect in advance.

In this blog post, you’ll learn what to expect the day of your pick-up, important information
about delivery and transit time, how to prepare for the delivery of your items, what to expect
on the day of your delivery, and a few pro tips from me!

The Night Before Your Pick Up

You’re almost ready for the big day tomorrow. You’re probably wondering what time the
movers will arrive for your pick-up! When Jordan River Moving makes the schedule, they try to
honor any requests. Most people want the morning slot for the movers to arrive. The schedule
is made to ensure the correct crew, equipment, and amount of time is scheduled for each
move.

● Jordan River Moving makes the schedule the day before your pick-up and will call you
with the estimated arrival time.
● Don’t worry. If the movers are going to be early or late, they will contact you.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Pick Up

Jordan River movers are friendly and respectful. They work quickly and carefully. Here’s what
you can expect on the day of your pick-up:
● The movers will arrive in uniform at your home during the time given to you.
● If they are going to be early or late, they will call you. Be flexible. Remember that
everyone is trying their best- even you!
● Upon arrival, the foreman will introduce himself (or herself) to you. The foreman will be
your main point of contact throughout the pickup. He will be happy to answer any
questions during your move. And yes, the foreman speaks English, in case you were
wondering- I was.
● The foreman will do a “walk-through” with you before starting the work. This is a great
time to point out anything you don’t need to be moved or wouldn’t like packing. Let the
foreman know if you have any items that need special attention or care.
● The moving truck is stocked with various boxes and packing materials that can be used
at your request. The foreman will have a price list on the Bill of Lading.
● Pro tip- if you know you will need extra packing materials like wardrobe boxes, call
ahead so they can make sure to put them on the truck.
● There will be paperwork for you to sign at the beginning of the pickup and the end.
Make sure you look it over before signing.
● Crews are trained so that you have a single point of contact through the foreman. This
keeps the move going quickly and efficiently.
● The movers will give each item loaded a numbered inventory sticker corresponding to a
detailed inventory list and condition report kept with your paperwork. You will be asked
to sign off on this list at pick-up and delivery. Please take time to look over this list to
ensure accuracy.
● You may carry items to the truck on your own, but you cannot load them onto the truck.
● Pro tip- I let the movers carry everything to the truck so I’m not in the way. Plus, they
can do it faster and more efficiently than I can.
● Before leaving the pickup location, the foreman will walk through the home with you.
This ensures that everything you need moved has been removed from the home.
● If you think an area might be overlooked or forgotten, leave yourself a note or make a
reminder to check these areas before the movers leave.
● Pro tip- Triple-check all locations. It’s much easier for movers to retrieve a forgotten
item from across town and deliver it to your new home. Imagine trying to coordinate
that with a long-distance move! Save yourself time and money, and be sure everything
is packed on the truck.
● Make sure the movers have your phone number in case they need to reach you after
loading the truck.
● If any issues arise on the day of the pick-up that the foreman cannot address or
resolve, please do not hesitate to call our office. We are available to you before, during,
and after your move.

Important Information About Delivery and Transit Time

Understandably, you want to know when your items will be delivered to your new home. You
have a lot of planning, and not knowing the exact date right away can feel frustrating. Jordan
River works hard to keep customers informed as much as possible during the process. I
suggest planning for the full 21 days. Then, if it’s sooner, you will be pleasantly surprised! Your
relocation Specialist will go over this information with you and can help answer any questions
you have, but here’s what to know:

● All delivery information provided by Jordan River are estimates, given to you with the
best information possible. Due to the nature of long-distance moving, departure dates
and delivery dates can change for many reasons.
● Feel free to call for updates; just remember the dates given to you aren’t guaranteed.
● Jordan River guarantees delivery within 21 days of your “first available” date. This is the
first date you tell the company you will be available to receive your delivery at the new
address.
● This timeframe may change based on the time of year, weather conditions, road
conditions, acts of God, delivery schedule, geographic location of the move, and other
unknown factors. Please refer to your paperwork for more details.
● For the fastest transit time, you should use the pick up date as your “first available”
date.
● If you use any other date, Jordan River will need to hold your items until you’re ready
for delivery, and you may be charged for warehouse handling. They will not charge for
the first 30 days of storage.
● You must be available for delivery starting from your “first available” ready date. Not
being available on certain days and/or times could result in additional charges for wait
time and/or redelivery.
● Pro tip- the movers probably won’t be driving from your pick up directly to your new
home, so choosing the pick up date as your “first available” date starts the clock ticking
on the 21-day delivery window.
● Be patient and flexible. You have wisely packed an “in-between” kit, so you’re prepared
to wait while your items are in transit. To ensure you are prepared with everything you
might need during the “in-between” time, click here to read more.
● You can pay extra for “guaranteed” service on or between agreed dates. This optional
service guarantees that your shipment will be picked up, transported to the destination,
and delivered on specific guaranteed dates. It will cost you a lot for this service. Ask
your Relocation Specialist about details.
● Be prepared to provide a delivery address. A delivery address must be on file before
they can dispatch your items for delivery.
● If you require storage at the warehouse for over three months, you must make monthly
payments. The office will contact you in advance to give you all the information.
● Jordan River will charge if they must use more than one flight of stairs or an elevator
at delivery. If you know these charges will occur, let the office know in advance so they
can let you know what the costs will be. You want to avoid any surprises at delivery!
● A long-distance dispatcher coordinates deliveries and makes the final delivery schedule
once a truck is loaded for deliveries. Then, the schedule is given to customer service,
who will call you with a 2-3 day date range for delivery.
● Don’t worry! You will receive updates as the dates get closer and the driver knows more
information. Sometimes your items are not the only ones on a truck, and one delivery
can affect the timing of another. Everyone is doing their best!

Preparing for Delivery of Your Items

Payment

It’s crucial to handle payment in advance for long-distance moves. Any delays or issues with
payment can really mess up a delivery. For payment information, please read the article
Moving Long-Distance: How JRM Wants You to Prepare.

Access

For most moves, there will need to be access for an 18-wheel tractor-trailer (a.k.a. semi or “big
rig”).

● If there isn’t access for a truck this size, there could be additional charges for long
carries or shuttle service. These charges would be in addition to the balances given to
you prior to your delivery.
● To help avoid this issue (or prepare for it), make sure to communicate with your
Relocation Specialist. You can describe the delivery location, and they can help guide
you.
● Pro tip- When I moved to Montana, I assumed there was plenty of room for a semi to
deliver to my home. I didn’t think of factors like the semi having enough space to turn
into our driveway from a rural two-lane country road. I also didn’t take into account the
slope of my driveway. Thankfully, the expert driver and crew could get the semi into our
driveway and make the delivery. If not, they would’ve had to try and find a smaller
truck in a tiny town on a Sunday. That’s a tall order and would’ve caused the movers to
probably spend the night at a motel and try again the next day. Yikes! Avoid the mess I
almost got myself into and think about access in advance. Everyone will be better off.

Delivery to Storage

If delivery is to be made at a storage facility, ensure access for a tractor-trailer and
ground-floor access to avoid possible charges for a shuttle, long carries, stairs, or elevator use.

Other Notes

Some buildings require that Jordan River Moving provide a certificate of insurance. Please get
in touch with building management well in advance about this requirement. Jordan River will
happily contact their insurance company and provide them with the certificate. Don’t wait until
the last minute to do this!

Person at Delivery

There has to be someone present at delivery to sign the paperwork. If you will not be present
at delivery, contact the Jordan River office and make sure you have provided the name(s) and
contact number(s) of who will be signing on your behalf. Make sure this person is prepared
with the final payment.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Delivery

Here’s what you can expect when the Jordan River crew arrives at your delivery location. This
is exciting!

● The driver will call you the day before your delivery to notify you of the approximate
arrival time.
● The driver will act as foreman at delivery and will be your primary point of contact for
questions.
● At delivery, the movers will happily place items throughout your home wherever you
want.
● Pro tip- make a quick sketch of how you want the furniture arranged in your new home.
You can show it to the movers so they know where to put the items in each room. This
way, the foreman won’t have to ask you about each piece, and the crew can work more
effectively.
● Although movers work quickly, they are happy to take the time to make your new home
as comfortable as possible.
● Pro-tip- make sure your bed is exactly where you want it. You don’t want to have to
move it yourself after the movers leave. When I moved the last time, the movers even
asked me how far away from the wall I wanted my headboard since it covered a light
switch. What service!
● Remember that Jordan River will handle basic reassembly of furniture (as long as it
doesn’t require special tools).
● Movers can’t reinstall shelving units, mounted cabinets, or TV mountings. They also
cannot reassemble your trampoline, big toy, crib, and other baby/child-related items
for liability reasons.
● Movers can’t install appliances. If you cannot do this yourself, have an appliance
serviceman ready to do it for you.
● At the end of your move, you will be asked to inspect the truck to ensure all your items
have been unloaded.
● You will be asked to review and sign off once again on the inventory and condition
report. Look over this list carefully to ensure everything is correct and accounted for.
● After you sign the final paperwork, you can tip the movers if you want.
● Pro-tip- I love to tip well for great service. When you see how amazing the crews are,
and compare your experience to moving by yourself, show some love and throw in some
extra dough for a job well done.

Other Useful Tips and Information

Talk to your foreman throughout the move. This is their job, and they will be happy to help you
and ensure you have the best experience possible.
● If any issues arise on the pickup or delivery day, talk to the foreman. It’s easier for
them to solve problems during the move than after. For example, if there is accidental
damage to your wall, tell the foreman, and he can make a note of it for later.
● If there are any issues the foreman can’t address or resolve, please don’t hesitate to
call the office. They are there to help you before, during, and after your move!
● Note- movers can’t take away any trash (mattress covers, tape, paper pads, etc.) onto
the truck. They can place the trash into your recycle bins or a designated area at your
request. The movers go directly from one move to the next and don’t have the ability
to store trash on the truck or a way to dispose of it prior to the next move.
● Please take the time to read the FMCSA’s information on your rights as a consumer:
● “Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” brochure.
● “Ready to Move?” pamphlet.

Pro Tips for Delivery Day

I know it’s exciting, and you’ve been waiting for your items to be delivered. Remember that
your movers have been driving across the state or country, and they want your delivery to be
on time, just like you do! Sometimes it’s helpful to remember that other customers’ crates may
be on the same truck as yours. Trucks are expertly packed in the Jordan River Moving
warehouse according to the dispatch plan. Keep your phone handy in the days leading up to
your delivery- especially on delivery day. The driver may need to call you with updates. If you
live in a rural area like I do, offering the movers food and beverages on delivery day is nice. In
my town, the food options are limited, so I planned ahead and made sure the movers were
taken care of. Lastly, I suggest tipping well. It’s earned and appreciated.

Useful Resources

Senior Movers

You made it!

Knowing what to expect on pick-up and delivery days can help ensure a successful move.
Understanding the long-distance moving process will help you anticipate what you can expect
and why. Sometimes, knowing the “why” can help us understand the process and give each
other a little more grace. Remember that Jordan River Moving is there for you before, during,
and after your move. If you enjoyed this article and want to know more about Preparing for
For your Long-Distance Move with Jordan River Moving, click here.

Jordan River Moving appreciates your feedback. They want each customer to have a positive
moving experience; the best way to ensure that is your feedback. They want to hear about
your moving experience. Please complete the customer service survey at the end of your move.
You can also call or email the office to let them know what you liked or how they can improve
their service.