Storage-In-Transit
Should I let the mover store my household goods?
This refers to the shipper's goods that need to be delivered into a warehouse for a short period of time until the goods are to be delivered to a specific location at the request of the shipper. The maximum amount of time SIT (Storage In Transit) remains effective is 90 days. This applies to most companies. However, some movers have exceptions to this. Check with your mover before hand to see how long their SIT stays effective. After the 90 days expires, the shipment is held in permanent storage. At that point, warehousing and storage rates are subject to their local permanent rates, which can vary greatly from SIT storage rates. Make certain you are aware of the applicable rates if you plan on storing your goods longer than 90 days.
When your goods are put into storage, you are subject to three applicable charges:
Transportation between the origin and warehouse where your goods are being stored. Storage and Warehouse handling charges
Transportation charges between the warehouse and final destination Make certain all applicable charges are in writing.
Can I have my goods delivered into the mini-storage of my choice?
Sure you can, but there are certain conditions you must account for. You must purchase your own supplies such as pads and tape so that the movers can stack your goods into the storage unit (also there is an additional charge to have the movers stack your goods into storage). Once the movers deliver the goods into storage, it then becomes your responsibility to either find another company to deliver your goods to your new location or rent a truck to do it yourself. One of the major problems when dealing with more than one moving company occurs when one delivers to storage and another delivers from storage to the destination, and you find damages. You may have a difficult time determining who caused the damage and the two moving companies will point the fingers of responsibility at each other. If you can, have one company perform the entire service, it can facilitate any problems that may arise. In addition, you can usually get a better rate on all services when you purchase them from one company.
Should I store my belongings at my origin or my destination?
Different locations within the US have different costs of doing business. Storage charges will vary depending upon where your goods are stored. Ask your moving representative about storage rates in both origin and destination locations. Of course, storage rates are much higher in New York than they would be in Idaho.
Are my goods still insured while in storage?
The types of valuation that you purchased to cover your shipment will still apply while in S.I.T, however there is an additional cost for it. The charge is equal to 10% of the total storage charges. If you are going to need permanent storage, the rates are subject to local storage rates. Your moving representative should provide you with their storage rates. I hate to sound redundant, but make sure you get the local monthly storage rates in writing.
The last point I would like to make is that I strongly suggest you take the time to visit the warehouse where your goods are going to be stored before they arrive there. The company should have no problem taking the time to show you the conditions of their warehouse. If they don't, request another location. |
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