FAQ

Is there a minimum number of hours you charge

SEM'S MOVING & STORAGE will bill a minimum of three hours of labor. The company charges in increments of 30 minutes when the minimum is reached.

What type of payments are available and when is payment due?

Unless otherwise arranged with your relocation consultant, all charges should be paid upon delivery by cash, Visa or Master Card credit/debit cards, money order, or certified check.

Are my goods protected against loss or damage while in transit?

Yes, but the customer should determine the type and level of protection. There are three available options: weight based liability; cash value liability; and full replacement liability. Our relocation consultant will explain to you all the protection options and rates, in length. If you have homeowner or renters insurance, inquire with your insurance agent about "in-transit" coverage.

How much notice do you require for booking a move?

SEM'S MOVING & STORAGE will do its best to accommodate any timing needs, however, it is highly recommended that moves set for the end of the month (the busiest time) are booked as early as possible.

What do i need to do if my move must be rescheduled?

Please contact us as soon as possible to arrange a new moving date. The more notice given, the more easily we can accommodate your needs. If you cancel your move within 3 days of your scheduled date, we charge a fee of $60.

Should I dismantle and reassemble my furniture?

You may if you wish to save some time, but you don't have to. In fact, most clients leave all dismantling and reassembling work for the movers. The movers will reassemble all the furniture that was dismantled. When you receive an estimate from our relocation consultant, do not forget to describe all the furniture that needs special care.

Why do I have to pay travel time?

Costs of the move begin to incur the moment the truck leaves the garage. SEM’S MOVING & STORAGE must pay the movers and for gas, etc.

Do you charge extras for stairs?

Extra charges for stairs are pending the layout of the pickup/delivery location, the total amount and weight of the move inventory and will vary. For a close estimate, please email your relocation consultant with a move inventory and an oral description of the pickup/delivery locations.

Why do you need to pack my mattresses?

Mattresses can be extremely expensive and they are extremely delicate. They can soil easily, and even if they are wrapped, they can snag and tear. Boxing your mattress assures that you will be sleeping on a clean surface.

Why do you need to pack my TV?

TV’s are very delicate pieces of electronics. They can easily break with even the slightest bump. Boxing helps ensure that your TV will arrive in the same condition as before it was packed.

Why do I need 3 or 4 movers?

SEM'S MOVING & STORAGE always suggests the most efficient number of movers to each move. It is usually more expensive to under-staff a move. A smaller crew might charge a lower hourly rate, but they will take longer to complete the move. It has been well documented that when there aren’t enough movers on a job, crews are more likely to rush and to fatigue, resulting in an increase in damages.

What is the difference between hourly and distance estimates?

Local moves are normally conducted and charged on an hourly basis. Long-distance and international moves are normally performed distance. Ask our relocation consultant which way your move will be performed.

When does the hourly rate start?

The hourly rate starts when the truck arrives at your residence and the movers introduce themselves. The time runs through the loading of the truck, the driving to your new home, the unloading and ends when the truck is empty and any necessary set-up jobs are finalized.

Can I get an on-site estimate?

Yes, upon request, we will send one of our relocation consultants to your home. SEM'S MOVING & STORAGE relocation consultants are trained to assist you with all your moving & storage needs, and to advise you on any relocation related question. Our relocation consultant will provide you with a written binding estimate, which specifies all costs and services included. Please note that depending on your location, the estimate might come at a fee. Please get in touch with one of our relocation consultants to arrange for an estimate or obtain more information.

What should I pack by myself?

The term packing refers to small objects and loose items. It does not mean to include furniture. The level of packing one should do is entirely dependent upon the amount of time, money, and energy that one may want to spend. You can leave the entire packing to us, pack partially, or pack everything by yourself. Most customers prefer the movers to pack all artwork, lamps, electronics, breakables, and delicate objects. When you receive an estimate from our relocation consultant, do not forget to describe all the items that need special care.

Will the movers protect my furniture?

All furniture will be fully wrapped with heavy duty moving blankets. When you receive an estimate from our relocation consultant, do not forget to describe all the furniture that needs special care.

Do my appliances need special attention?

Most refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other electrical or mechanical appliances require special servicing to ensure safe transportation. Any moving parts such as motors on major appliances, washer drums, or mechanical arms, should be securely fastened for shipment. Gas appliances need to be serviced and disconnected prior to your move. SEM'S MOVING & STORAGE will perform these services, using either its own qualified personnel or an authorized service company. Ask our relocation consultant about servicing your appliances for moving.

My new location is not ready yet, what should I do?

If your new home is not ready, you have two options to choose from. One is to extend your stay at your old location. The second is to store your goods until the new location is ready. SEM'S MOVING & STORAGE provides perfect storage solutions, whether over-night, short-term, or long-term. Check with our relocation consultant which storage service best suits your situation.

What happens if I have to reschedule my move?

SEM'S MOVING & STORAGE is aware of the complexity of moving in general, and choosing a moving date in particular. Therefore, we are always ready to accommodate any change to our customers' moving schedule. Please contact our relocation representative, as soon as you know about the required change in moving arrangements.

Why do you have to give a 2 hour window for my move?

We provide you with a 2 hour window of arrival if your move is scheduled in the afternoon. It might be the crew’s second move of that day, and we can’t be 100% certain of their arrival time until the first move is finished. However, we can try to minimize your inconvenience by calling you before the movers arrive.

How much am I expected to tip?

You are never expected to tip, however, tips are always appreciated. A general rule of thumb for exceptional service might be $5.00 per mover per hour.