licensed - insured
FAQ
what happens when it rains?
If you're flexible and we have openings we're always happy to change the day. However, we move in the rain all the time. If it's raining, generally we're out moving in it. Moving in the rain just takes a little longer. We have to wrap things a little extra to keep goods dry and we have to walk slower so we don't slip. If you have new floors or carpet, we can lay down blankets to walk on, and if there's slippery hard-wood floors, we might bring things in in batches and dry our shoes off for safety. Basically, it just takes longer. It probably adds 10%-20% onto the bill. We do not do hoists or piano moves in the rain.
what happens when it snows?
Same sort of deal as when it rains, but we might have to do some shoveling and sweeping (we bring a broom, shovel, and salt). Snow can also cause problems with parking. In extreme weather conditions we reserve the right to cancel or postpone, however, we've yet to actually do that. We do not do hoists or piano moves when it's snowing.
what if I'm not packed?
We can pack you, that's no problem, but you should let us know so that we can provide an accurate estimate. Also, so we can bring the right materials and the correct number of workers.
what if someone's parked in the reserved spot?
Check your permitted or reserved spot before we get there. It usually takes an hour for the police to arrive, and then another hour for the tow truck. Sometimes we're done by the time the tow truck arrives because we've found another spot or double parked. But it's still a good idea to call the cops either way, that way if we park illegally we can get it approved by an officer and we won't get a ticket. If you call early enough, you might be able to get the offending car towed before we get there, which would be great!
what if there's no parking?
Sometimes at a location there's just not much for parking. Maybe it's too late to get permits, or someone is in your spot, or whatever. We'll figure something out. If you think parking is going to be really bad, and we know ahead of time, we can develop a plan. Maybe there'll have to be a long walk. Maybe we stage your goods in the lobby and then bring the truck around and load it really quick. Maybe we have to park on the sidewalk. We'll figure it out and get it done. It might just take longer if there's parking issues. Also, see below about tickets.
what if the truck gets a ticket?
Sometimes it's better to risk a ticket than to park far away. The ticket might cost less than the labor of walking 2 blocks. Generally, if we get a ticket, we put it on the bill as an extra charge. We also do whatever we can to avoid it of course.
what if something won't fit?
Now and then there's a box-spring or couch that won't fit up the stairs and is too big to come in a window. Box springs can hypothetically be cut and bent. 70% of the time it works, 30% of the time it ruins the box spring. We advocate getting split box-springs. We also suggest if you have some questionable items, having a backup plan, perhaps a friend who might want it or a spot in a garage to store it until you move to a different place. We also offer storage which is something we can discus if the need arises.
does it cost extra for my flatscreen?
No. We have ways of stashing a flatscreen in the truck where we don't have to charge you $30 for a special box. If you want to insure the flatscreen, we'll need to put it in the fancy box however. Original packaging is always the best course if you have it.
does it cost extra for my tempurpedic?
No. I've heard other companies charge extra and I don't know why.
what if something goes wrong and the workers have to sit in the truck and wait?
We don't want to take advantage of your misfortune. If the workers have to sit for more than 30 minutes doing nothing, we revert to a wait-time rate of $30/hour per worker to cover their wages and insurance.
what if there's a lot of traffic?
Unfortunately Eastern Massachusetts is fraught with traffic. On occasion our travel times will be off due to traffic. We do our best to avoid this through scheduling, and because we are equipped with GPS and traffic reports so we can route around it. If we get in real stand-still traffic such that we shut the truck off, we revert to the waiting rate.
what are the movers not allowed to put on the truck?
Fire-arms, ammunition, food, alcohol, fuels (empty your lawn mower, and we're not allowed to take the tank from your grill), and anything else that's illegal.
what if I just need people to help pack or unpack a pod?
Sure, we can do that. We charge the same rate if we put things in your pod as if we put things in our truck.
what if I provide the truck?
Sure, we can do that. We charge the same rate if we put things in your truck as if we put things in our truck.
what if one of the workers gets hurt?
We have workman's comp, so no worries, it's covered. If the worker needs to be replaced, we'll take care of it, and you won't be charged for any time he's not actually helping.
what if my belongings get lost/destroyed?
Refer to our section on liability and insurance.
what if the walls or the building get damaged?
We'll either come back and fix it or work with our $2,000,000 General Liability policy.
I have brand new floors, how do you keep them safe?
There are a number of options available. The most common one is to lay our moving blankets down and walk on those. If there's something unusual where that won't work, we can talk about it and come up with a solution.
What can be transported in trashbags and what cannot?
Fabric and trash. Otherwise, it needs to go in a box. If you have things you don't want to get wrinkled then you'll need a wardrobe box.
Can we help moving?
You bet! It's a great way to save money. We do have a couple of rules, however. You can't get up on the truck. You can put things on the end of the truck, or take things from the end of the truck, but no climbing up into the truck. Also, no carrying things with our workers. If it takes 2 people to move something it can be two of our workers, or two people who do not work for IL&M.
What sort of payments do you accept?
Cash or Check. No credit cards.
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