Frequently asked questions answered in detail.
We tried to put ourselves in your shoes and answer all of your questions in this section. From how to find a moving company, to how to transfer your internet to the new address – and everything in between.
If you cannot find the answer to your question, simply give us a call or send us an email using the buttons at the bottom of the page. Our moving consultants will be happy to share their knowledge and give you appropriate advice to make your moving process a smoother experience.
Yes. Otter Moving & Storage is fully insured and licensed with the US DOT and NYC DOT.
Yes, we provide the certificate of insurance (COI) free of charge for as many locations as needed.
Yes. Our movers will protect all non box-able items for you. This includes your TV, mirrors, dressers, mattress, lamps, etc. We use thick moving blankets, plastic wrap and cardboard to pad the items. The protection of items is included in all quotes at no additional cost.
Yes, we disassemble and reassemble all of your basic furniture at no additional cost. This includes basic beds (non storage), sofas, desk and tables with up to 8 screws or handling time shorter than 20 minutes. For more complex furniture there might be a handling fee applied, so make sure to inform your moving consultant about it upfront.
As required by the Department of Transportation, customer’s belongings will be covered with basic coverage of $0.60 cents per pound per damaged item. If the customer would like to additionally protect their items our moving consultants will recommend a trusted third party insurance company where the policy can be easily obtained.
Our fixed rates are based on the list of items, logistics of the move and the date of the move. Once you provide this information to your moving consultant they will present you with an all inclusive transparent rate that will not be subject to change unless the details of your move change (eg. adding items, changing date, etc).
The beauty of the fixed rate is knowing your total cost upfront and avoiding any surprises on the day of the move.
Our fixed rates do not include the gratuity, moving of not listed items & supply and packing of boxes (this can be added as additional service).
If you have more questions about the quote, make sure to ask your dedicated moving consultant.
We recommend scheduling your move approximately 1-2 weeks in advance for non busy dates. If you are looking to move during the peak dates (end & beginning of the month) we suggest reaching out 3-4 weeks in advance in order to secure the most affordable rate.
Of course, most of the time we’ll be able to accommodate next day moves, and even same day moves if the schedule allows us.
Yes – we work seven days a week, as well as on all national holidays. We have you covered 365 days a year.
As in many service industries, the recommended gratuity for a job well done is 15-20% of the move price (amount is then equally split between all movers). Of course, the customer is always encouraged to tip their movers any amount that they find appropriate based on crews’ overall performance.
Preparation for the move is equally as important as the move day itself. Step #1 would be to provide detailed inventory to your moving consultant, #2 would be to declutter and donate/throw away items that you will not need to move, step #3 is to empty out all of your furniture & pack and seal your boxes (unless you ordered the full packing service).
Make sure to check out our moving tips in the top menu bar for more helpful tips.
We do not expect our customers to secure the parking spot for our trucks, however if you are able to secure one that would be greatly appreciated as it will help the move go faster and smoother.
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