Long Distance Move
A long distance move is usually defined as traveling a distance of more than 50 miles. The final cost of your move will depend on the actual scaled weight of your shipment, plus charges for extra services such as packing, unless other arrangements have been made. Your trained and experienced Bekins Moving Consultant will be able to accurately estimate the cost of your move based on the United Van Lines' published schedule of tariff rates.
Bekins Moving & Storage will provide you with one of the best possible price and value for your moving dollar. Best value means some important intangibles: quality service, reliability, and your PEACE OF MIND...your assurance that we will handle your family's personal belongings as if they were our own.
Choose your mover by reputation, resources and stability. Your consideration should be limited to movers who belong to a major van line. They are the only companies who have the capability to properly provide long distance moving services. Sure they may cost a little more, but it is the only way to ensure that you will get a good quality move. Ask for references. Your mover should inspire trust and confidence. Choose the mover who is genuinely interested in you and your needs. We are confident that Bekins Moving & Storage will be your choice.
The Van Operator: Your Moving Day Manager
The van operator is an integral part of the moving process since it is their job to supervise the crew and organize how the van will be loaded. Only those drivers who have met United's standards for low frequency and severity of damage claims; good customer relations; safety; on-time pick up and delivery; driver/van appearance and operations support will be chosen to handle your move.
Your possessions will need special attention to reach your new home safely. Each item will be positioned in the van or container to ensure its safety and to maximize the available space. When you move with United, each step of the way is a carefully planned and coordinated effort to make sure your possessions arrive at their destination in perfect order. Before loading your belongings, your United van operator catalogues each carton and separate item. They note the condition of each article on an inventory sheet along with a description of each piece of furniture.
You'll be asked to check the inventory with the van operator during loading and unloading so you'll be sure everything is accounted for and received. Your van operator carefully plans the load for maximum security of your possessions. Large furniture pieces are padded carefully for protection against marks or scratches. Upholstered furniture will be sealed in sterile plastic wrap to ensure cleanliness. We're experienced at moving special items like fitness equipment, pianos and pool tables. Some items may require specialized service by a third party company which your Bekins Moving Consultant can arrange on your behalf.
Your United crew will place your furniture where you want it in your new home. They'll carry cartons to the rooms that are marked on the containers. They'll unroll rugs and reassemble items that they took apart at loading.
Training Programs
On average, United Van Lines drivers have worked almost 10 years with the United fleet. Training is an on-going process for all our drivers. Throughout the year they attend programs held at our United Training Center in Bolton, Ontario, where they learn new handling techniques, improve their customer relations skills and update their knowledge on policies and procedures.
Accountability & Recognition
Every year we recognize each of our top drivers for their outstanding performance. Our van operators are held accountable for the work they do. The financial responsibility they share for damage claims depends on their annual performance rating with United. This encourages the highest degree of quality service for our customers.
Destination Services
Moving into a new community can be a little overwhelming. But with your United Van Lines' Destination Member you have a new friend waiting to help you get comfortably settled into your new home. They provide friendly and experienced personnel to assist with unpacking your United Member packed possessions.
They'll arrange for third party services that you've requested. In the unlikely event of loss or damage, your United Van Lines Destination Member will assist you to file a claim.
Our personalized claims settlement service supported by selected craftsmen and suppliers will make things right for you. Your United Van Lines Destination Member will give you information about your new area, be happy to help you get acclimatized to your new community, and answer questions to help you feel like your new house is your new home.
Methods of Payment
| C.O.D. | Unless prior credit arrangements have been made, the driver is required by law to collect payment for your moving charges before your shipment can be unloaded. C.O.D. shipments must be paid by way of cash, certified cheque or money order. You can determine the exact cost of your move by contacting your United member at origin or destination before delivery. |
| Credit Card | For your added convenience, United Van Lines will accept payment by Visa or Mastercard. Arrangements must be made in advance with your United Member at origin. |
| Corporate Invoicing | If your employer is paying for your move, United Van Lines will be happy to invoice your company (on approved credit) for our services. Ask your moving consultant for details. |
| Prepayment | Some customers prefer to prepay their shipments at origin. This is generally done where the customer will not be available at the destination. |
Tax Deductions for Moving Expenses
Many people don't realize that they can claim some moving related expenses. To do so you must be moving in order to start a job or a business, or to become a full-time student. You must be moving at least 40 km closer to the new workplace or school. Deductions can only be applied on income earned at the new location. Contact Revenue Canada for the special claim form. If you are transferred by your company, you can't claim deductions for any expenses for which your company has paid.