Cost
How do I reduce the cost of my move?
Beltway focuses on overall efficiency in local moving and it charges to the nearest quarter hour. Anything you do that will save us time will save you money. It can be anything as simple as unplugging the television to moving all of your cartons out of the attic for quicker access. For more cost saving tips go to our cost cutter move tips.
Do you have minimum charges?
Unlike many moving companies we do not have minimum charges. We charge only to the nearest quarter hour. This would include the time it takes to travel to and from our office.
Do you charge extra for pianos?
Every van has the equipment necessary to move a piano and our crews are trained and experienced to move most types of pianos. The cost of moving your piano would be part of the hourly charges included in your estimate.
How do hourly rates work and why do hourly rates change?
May through September is the busy season for moving companies. Many of these companies, including Beltway, establish higher rates each spring to compensate for their increased annualized expenses. Customer demand during these busy times peaks the last few days of each month and the first few days of the next month with Friday and Saturday being the premier move days. In general, increased summer volume requires moving companies increase investment in equipment, recruiting, training, and associated company infrastructure. A rate for June 30, for example, is always going to be higher than a rate for November 30.
Another factor in the rate process is availability of crews and trucks. Beltway Movers has not missed a single move day appointment in 45 years of business, because unlike some companies (and many airlines we are sure you have experienced.) we do not overbook hoping that someone will cancel. If on June 30th we have 50 crews available we will schedule only 50 moves. As our daily schedules fill our costs increase due to overtime factors, balance of travel times to branches and other factors too numerous to list. Our rates go up as our crew availability decreases. The last crew simply has more resources invested to get them to the last move job.
The rate for a customer scheduled for a specific move date never changes once they secure a crew with a deposit. It is important to understand that a move day rate is not guaranteed until a crew is committed in exchange for a customer deposit. If a customer is unable to commit to a date at the time they receive an estimate there is risk that due to crew availability the quoted rate could change. During high volume periods it is not uncommon for popular dates to be scheduled out completely within a few hours time and therefore be no longer available at any rate. So just like air travel or beach vacations the later a customer confirms with a deposit there is an increase risk of a higher cost.
The best way to get the lowest rate is
- move off season
- move in the middle of the month
- move in the middle of the week
- and secure the crew early with a deposit.
Of course you cannot always control all the factors for your move but following the best combination of the above guidelines should help you secure a lower rate per hour.
Elevators
Does it make any difference that my building has an elevator?
You can expect to pay more when long hallways must be transversed to get to the service elevator. You can minimize charges of this kind by selecting a company that has the proper equipment and training. Only a moving specialist can achieve the desired efficiency and safety on an elevator move. Visit ups and downs of elevator moving for insights to selecting the right company for the job and to obtain information that will ensure move day is more of a joy than a job for both you and your building manager.
Estimates and Scheduling Move Services
How will my BMA Instant Estimate on the web differ from an estimate I get by phone?
The BMA Instant Estimate will enable you to quickly determine if hiring a professional moving company will fit reasonably within your personal budget. The formula takes into account the list of furniture you select with average conditions, average travel time and an average rate per hour. Keep in mind that the web estimator is meant to provide general budget guidance. The Instant Estimate printout can also provide you with a list of furniture to be used when comparing movers.
A BMA Phone Estimate offers you the additional benefit of a trained consultant who will not only help you determine price but will also help you "think through" the services you want and need. We can guarantee that an estimate conducted by a BMA consultant will be within 10% of the actual cost if all items, services, conditions and move dates you discuss remain the same.
Click on tips for selecting a mover and the FAQ How can I ensure I get an accurate move estimate for additional information that may help ensure that you get the a professional move for best value.
How can I ensure I get an accurate move estimate?
A company should be able to supply in writing:
- the estimated move size in cubic feet or pounds
- the size crew required
- an itemized furniture list with estimated number of cartons
- a detailed explanation of additional services requested including packing of mirrors, lamps and pictures.
- an itemized estimate of total cost.
You will then have a basis from which to compare cost, services and not just hourly rates. Visit selecting a mover for additional tips.
What are the best questions I should ask when shopping for a mover?
All movers are not created equal and price is not everything. Beltway is committed to being the best value in the industry. Visit selecting a mover to learn how to discern the signs of a reputable company.
Why are you calling me from a different office than the one I scheduled my move?
We schedule and dispatch moves from several different locations based on resources and call volume. Be rest assured your move will be accomplished by the branch most advantageous for you. Visit office locations and directions for all office phone numbers.
Do you handle long distance moves?
We regularly move up to 200 miles and can assist moves anywhere in the world. Long distance versus interstate moves can be confusing depending on state lines, commercial zones and your perceptions. Our consultants will be happy to clarify and suggest your best service options. Generally speaking, if you are moving within commuting distance of Washington DC, Beltway Movers is your best value.
What do companies mean when they say they are bonded and insured?
This type of language can have various implications and can be confusing to the customer. Some questions that might better serve you when selecting a mover is to ask if a company can offer valuation coverage and what are their hiring policies. Our bottom line is that we stand behind our employees and their work. We don't allow anyone in your home we wouldn't want in ours. Our employees submit to a thorough screening and background check. Of course, any reputable business will be insured.
Are materials included in the estimate?
Generally we work on a time and material basis. Your written estimate will show the number of hours that we have determined it will take to travel to your residence, the amount of time for loading and unloading, the travel time back to our office and an itemized list of materials we expect to use. Products such as our crushproof cartons, blue plastic reusable containers, large canvas lined bins, rental cartons such as wardrobe cartons and the sale of used cartons will greatly reduce the cost of your materials. Our exclusive SmartPack® Move system, at no additional cost to you, will provide you with floor runners, shrink wrapping of your upholstered items and a two tiered loading system that will lower the cost, hasten your move and reduce the hassles. Visit selecting a mover and planning for a successful move day for additional tips.
How late in the day are you willing to start a move?
As a general rule we best serve your family and ours by having the day done by 6 pm. We work backward from that time to establish start times. Evening moves must be scheduled and planned for in advance.
How much notice is required to schedule a move?
If we have the scheduling space we will move you same day. Our guidance is that you allow 2-3 weeks between estimate and move date. The last few days of each month and most every day in May through September are extremely busy and require the most notice to guarantee preferred arrival times. Rest assured, regardless of when you call we will do our best to serve your needs and once your date is locked in you will be covered by our arrival guarantee. We have never missed a move day appointment. Visit selecting a mover and planning for a successful move day for additional tips.
Will my move always be handled by the closest BMA office?
The reason BMA has 5 offices around the Beltway is because we want to be part of your community. In general the closest office to your pick up address will handle your move and will afford you paying the least amount of travel time to and from the office. That being said there are busy days when one office utilizes all its crews and trucks but there are still customers that want to use BMA’s quality service. Beltway Movers has not missed a single move day appointment in 45 years of business, because unlike some companies (and many airlines we are sure you have experienced.) we do not overbook hoping that someone will cancel. The later a customer waits to schedule a move the greater the risk however that we will not be able to use the office closest to the pick up address. We at that point look for a compromise. If your nearest BMA office is not available when we schedule your move and you are unable to change to another move day we will assign it to another office and adjust the travel time in a manner that will be fair to you and still adequately compensate our employees and the company.
Do you provide a senior discount?
Yes, we offer seniors a 5% discount on their move. In addition, they will receive a free pack, move and unpack of 6 mirrors or pictures using our exclusive CrushProof Cartons – part of Beltway’s SmartPack® Move System.
Do you have special services for the senior community and age-restricted condominiums?
Absolutely. Coordinating a move for a senior often requires extra planning and organization. Schedule your move early so that we can team with you and Transitional Assistance & Design to properly handle all of the transitional details as well as the actual move.
Insurance and Liability
Why don't movers offer insurance?
Movers cannot sell insurance. However, reputable movers can offer you protection called "valuation coverage". Learn how this confusing but necessary coverage is determined by visiting understanding valuation coverage. Never be satisfied until you know exactly what to expect from your mover in case of a mishap.
Do I have insurance on my move?
This is an easily misunderstood move requirement. Movers must have various insurances such as for their vans and workman's compensation simply to be in business. The term "limits of liability" is what matters to you, the customer. These limits should be clearly discussed in the movers contract or bill of lading. There are industry guidelines for setting limits of liability but the customer must make the final decision. Make sure you are well informed of the cost associated with valuation coverage. It should be noted in your estimate and move contract. Visit understanding valuation coverage.
What if something gets broken?
Relax; we've got you covered. We'll resolve the problem to your satisfaction within the confines of the type of valuation coverage you elected for your move. For information on what is the best type of coverage for you visit understanding valuation coverage.
Move Day Planning, Expectations and Logistics
What can I expect to happen on move day?
Great question! We don't expect all our customer's to be relocation experts. We have provided a list of Beltway move day expectations so that you can be better prepared and we can work together to make your move day more of a joy that a job.
Do I have to be there during the move?
We advise that you get your best value by being present on move day. Communication is not compromised and flexibility is increased. If it is not possible to be there throughout your move please advise your consultant so that your individual circumstances can be addressed.
What do you do if it rains or snows?
Good weather is certainly more pleasant and cost effective for moving but not mandatory. As long as our crews are not at risk we keep moving. We will cover your furniture with moving pads and/or shrink-wrap and use floor runners to protect your floors. If rescheduling is an option for you we will do our best to accommodate.
What is SmartPack®?
The SmartPack® move system was developed by Beltway to lower the cost, hasten your move and reduce the hassles. As part of the standard SmartPack® move system we offer shelved vans, crushproof cartons, blue reusable plastic carriers, shrink wrapping of your upholstered furniture and floor runners. Visit SmartPack® to watch us move.
What time will the crew be here?
Beltway has never stood up a customer in our 43+ years of business. All of us who live in the Washington Metro area understand its traffic issues. These unforeseen gridlocks will on occasion make us late, however, be assured that they will be there! Our consultants noted an approximate arrival time on your written estimate. You will receive a call from our dispatcher on the day before your move to confirm the arrival time, introduce you to the crew and discuss any last minute details.
What about the things in my refrigerator/freezer?
A legitimate concern and one that can be easily handled on a local move. To prepare your freezer--pack all of the contents in small cartons and then return them to the freezer. On move day the movers can temporarily remove the boxes while handling the freezer and reload it when it is safely on board the van. This way you are able to use the freezer like a portable cooler without risk of damage. Refrigerator items should be moved in separate containers due to their sometimes fragile and spillable nature. If you do not have your own cooler(s) simply request us to bring extra blue plastic totes for your temporary use on move day. We will load these items last and unload first so they can be transferred to the working refrigerator at the destination.
Will you disassemble and reassemble my furniture?
We provide usual and customary disassembly of headboards, footboards and dresser mirrors. Some furniture items such as large wall units or light bridge headboards require a more complex process and may require more time. Please discuss this type of item with your consultant. We will advise you of the additional time and or expense and possibly the need for a third party specialist.
Moving Personnel and BMA Careers
Do you use pick up help?
No, our hiring principle guide is that we wouldn't allow anyone in your home that we wouldn't want in our home. Our uniformed crews are employees of the company that have undergone hiring scrutiny including background checks. If you are interested in a career with Beltway movers visit job descriptions and applications.
How can I apply to work for your company?
Visit job descriptions and applications for a listing of positions we are currently recruiting to take the first step in the application process.
Packing Services and Materials
Any tips on packing?
It's all a matter of time and materials. First, allow yourself enough time. Plan on packing 2-3 cartons per evening. It takes 20-30 minutes per box for a nonprofessional to pack. If you pack 40-50 boxes that will add up to 25 hours of packing! This formula is one you should keep in mind when considering whether or not to have your movers do the packing for you. Secondly, make sure you have enough cartons and the right materials for the safety of your items. The average person will use 5-10 cartons per room. We have several resources for packing. Visit our carton calculator to determine type of cartons needed and cost. Visit pack tips if you want insight into how the professionals do it and visit to pack or not to pack if you are reconsidering doing it yourself.
How do I pack my mirrors and pictures?
The best way to handle these items is to let us handle them for you! Beltway provides crushproof cartons as part of its SmartPack® move system. It will cost you less that the old fashion paper and box system and is safer for your items. Visit SmartPack® to watch us move.
What are your carton sizes and prices?
Beltway has new and used cartons available for pick up at all five of our locations or you may make arrangements for a carton delivery. Our carton calculator will help you determine the size cartons you might need and their cost.
What should I do with my plants?
We cannot guarantee live plants but we will do our best to move them safely. For local metropolitan moves your smaller plants (less than 18") may be placed in our blue plastic reusable carriers and larger plants positioned in the van strategically toward the end of loading. The alternative is to move them yourself. Naturally factors such as size of the plant, weather temperature and time between addresses should be considered in your decision.
How do I pack my computer? I don't have the original boxes.
You are not alone. Most people don't have the room to keep large bulky boxes around. We handle the problem by working together with you. To save time and money and ensure the safety of your data you may want to first back up your data, disconnect cords and load them along with discs and peripherals into a well-labeled carton. On move day we'll wrap your CPU, monitor and printer in pads and transfer them safely in our large canvas lined bins.
Do I need to pack/box my televisions?
No, that is not necessary. Utilizing our exclusive SmartPack® move system Beltway is able to transport your traditional television wrapped in moving pads and placed in large canvas lined bins. Some state of the art entertainment systems will require special handling. Please discuss your needs with a move consultant and confirm the arrangements when you receive our pre dispatch call the day before your move date.
What do I do about the items in my entertainment system?
Most of your items will fit in standard move cartons. Visit our carton calculator for size and cost. We might suggest that in preparation for your move that you diagram your set up, make some notes and then disconnect all the cords before the movers arrive. This will save time and money for you in the long run. Loose components are never left in cabinets during the move process.
Payment and Deposits
When do I pay for the balance of my move? Do I pay you or the driver?
About thirty minutes prior to completion of unloading, the crew foreman will alert you so that you can inspect each room to ensure that items are placed to your satisfaction. You can then request any changes. At this time the crew will begin assembling beds and placing mirrors on dressers, etc. You will be asked to inspect the van to ensure that all items have been unloaded. You have exclusive van rights on local moves so there will be nothing left on the van(s) except Beltway's equipment. The crewforeman will total the charges and answer any questions you may have about the move. Don't forget to complete our customer comment card while the crewforeman is doing the math. The last thing you need to do is pay the crewforeman with pre-arranged credit card or certified check. We have provided a list of Beltway move day expectations so that you can be better prepared and we can work together to make your move day more of a joy that a job.
What are the payment options?
We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express, cash or certified funds. We will require a non-refundable deposit in order to reserve your preferred move date and time. The deposit is deducted from your final move cost and payment is expected at the completion of the move. This arrangement will be documented on your estimate and will be verified by the dispatcher the day before the move and your crew foreman on the day of the move.
Is my job a flat rate or hourly?
Unless you specify your need for a flat rate priced move we work on a time and material basis. We have found that most local move customers are better served if they have the flexibility of changing services requested. This means they are not "locked into" a specific number of cartons or committed to moving the fragile items because they "thought" they would have the time before move day or conversely if some unexpected family assistance got all the boxes moved or finally picked up that bedroom set you gave them. Our move estimates are accurate and most frequently well within 10%. Our customers are provided an honest hours work charged to the nearest quarter hour with no minimum. If a flat price is preferred we will provide that service also. Please understand that flat price or contract priced moves are binding on the services requested.
Why do I need to give a deposit?
When you reserve a move date we commit resources such as drivers, vans, crewmembers and materials specifically to you. Our strict control of scheduling is what has prevented us from ever missing a move. The non-refundable deposit is a mutual guarantee but not meant to be inconvenient. If your move date(s) change, we simply apply your deposit to the new date.
Services for the Senior Community
Do you provide a senior discount?
Yes, we offer seniors a 5% discount on their move. In addition, they will receive a free pack, move and unpack of 6 mirrors or pictures using our exclusive CrushProof Cartons – part of Beltway’s SmartPack® Move System.
Is it necessary to schedule my move early if I am moving into an adult community, independent or assisted living facility?
Yes, that would be wise. Coordinating a move for a senior often requires extra preparation time prior to move day. Plan to schedule early so that we can we can team with you and Transitional Assistance & Design to properly handle every detail of the transition and move.
What if the whole process of downsizing, packing and moving overwhelms me?
There is help. We recommend Transitional Assistance & Design. They would be glad to arrange a free one-hour consultation with you. Call them direct at 240.403.0177. Their specialty is downsizing, moving and design services for seniors. They will be glad to help you think through every single facet of moving into an adult community, independent or assisted living facility. Their goal is to "Make your new residence feel like home, the moment you walk through the door."
What type of additional services are available to the senior community?
Extra touches are our specialty. Prior to your move we are glad to work with Transitional Assistance & Design to help you:
· organize, downsize and pack in preparation for your move
· inventory and pick up items for donation or shipping to loved ones.
· store items for safe keeping in one of our 5 locations.
· coordinate move day services with your destination residence
· unpack and place all items in their proper place
· arrange and rearrange furniture
· discard packing materials and unwanted items
How does your approach to moving change when your customer is downsizing to a senior campus environment?
Our approach to moving is exemplified by our personnel. We would not allow anyone in your home we would want in our own home. All of our crewmembers have been background-checked and trained. We have thousands of testimonials on file praising our movers for their good manners, good humor, and good work ethic. Little things like--offering the customer a chair from a good vantage point to watch the move or maintaining an ongoing dialogue regarding precious and sentimental belongings can make a big difference. We want to minimize the stress inherent in day. Our goal is to make move day more of a joy than a job for the retirement community.
Storage
What do I need to know about storage?
Professional movers have the most cost effective means for household goods storage. It requires move planning to take advantage of this savings by knowing the items you want stored and how long you anticipate the items being in storage. If frequent access to your stored goods will be a requirement consider a self-storage facility. Visit storage plans move tips for additional information.
Do you have your own storage facility?
Professional movers have the most cost effective means for household goods storage. We have storage facilities at all five of our locations. Visit office locations and directions for the facility nearest you or if you are trying to determine the best storage option for you visit storage plans move tips for additional information.
Is your storage climate controlled?
Our warehouses employ the household good standard called "palletized" storage. This system allows air circulation and prevents moisture and condensation. The warehouse temperatures do not reach outside extremes and change at a very slow rate. "Climate controlled" is a more recent concept designed for more climate sensitive items such as fine art and some electronics that require constant humidity and temperature. For more information on storage visit storage plans move tips.
Travel Time
Do you charge travel time?
Yes, we do. When calculating your move estimate our consultant estimated the time it would take for the moving van to travel from our nearest office to your home and the return time from your new residence to the office. We have found this method not only fair to our customers but it also allows fair compensation to our crews and helps maintain our high quality of drivers and moving personnel.
What happens if there is an accident on the beltway? Do I get charged for the delay in travel?
All of us who live in the Washington Metro area understand its traffic issues. These unforeseen gridlocks will on occasion make us late, however, be assured that we will be there! Our company policy is to charge customers for travel to and from the office to the nearest quarter hour. If an extreme traffic situation occurs our corporate staff will work with you to ensure that your move experience is still a positive one.
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