Can You Leave Movers Alone When They Arrive?
- American National Movers
- May 7
- 3 min read
If you hire a reputable moving company that provides a project manager, you don't need to be present when long distance movers come. Nonetheless, ensuring your moving company is trustworthy before deciding not to be present upon your mover's arrival is important. This article will tell you everything you need to know before your movers arrive:
Do You Need To Be Present When Movers Come?
Technically, no. Movers can collect your shipment from a storage unit, condo building, or single-family home without you on site. The real question is, should you? If you're using a bargain carrier with mixed reviews, your absence becomes an open door to:
Sudden "volume increases" and fee hikes.
Poor item labeling, causing miss-delivery or loss.
Cargo damage that's hard to prove later.
However, if you insist on leaving movers alone, here is what to do to ensure a successful relocation experience:
Hire Reputable Long Distance Movers.
If you're choosing not to be available when your movers come on loading day, be sure you're hiring a reputable brand. They should not have excessive complaints of hidden fees for "lost" or stolen items. Otherwise, you are putting your belongings at risk of a hostage move or potential theft.
Get A Flat Rate.
Leaving your mover alone when they come and changing your price because your increased estimate volume can look like a hostage move. To avoid this, ask your long distance movers for a flat rate so you don't have to worry about sudden price changes, which is common.
Arrange Payments In Advance.
Carriers usually require certified funds or a credit card authorization form at pickup. Settle deposits before leaving and clarify how the final balance will be paid at delivery. If your proxy will handle payment, provide them with a cashier's check or pre-approved card so the driver isn't stuck waiting.
Wait For Your Movers to Arrive & Then Leave.
If you want to get a head start on your drive or flight to your new state, it is still best to at least greet the movers when they come—then you can leave. Especially if your long distance moving costs are not guaranteed; otherwise, a price hike and your being unavailable can cause disputed billing between you and your movers.
Be Available.
Even if you're not there when the movers arrive, it is your responsibility to be available or to have someone who can manage payments and paperwork on your behalf. Upon loading, movers typically require you to sign a bill of lading in person or electronically before transporting your shipment.
In-House Moving Project Manager.
Established state to state moving companies often provide a project manager who can coordinate your move while you're absent. Typically, they have a relationship with the movers and communicate on behalf of the customer. Still, it's best to be available if your moving coordinator needs to contact you.
Personal Representative.
If your movers do not provide a project manager, see if you can get a neighbor, family, or friend to supervise the movers during the loading process. Not only will this ensure a smoother relocation experience, but it will also give you peace of mind.
Yes, You Can Leave Movers Alone But Be Weary.
Choosing not to be present when movers arrive is completely workable—as long as you replace your physical oversight with solid prep work. Vet the mover's reputation, lock in a binding price, stage and document every item, and designate a reliable point of contact. Do those things, and you can board your plane or hit the interstate knowing your shipment is in capable, accountable hands.
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