Friday, January 30, 2009

Affiliated with a Van Line? You must be too costly for a local move.

In a recent marketing study, over 50% of the respondents surveyed indicated that they wouldn't call a mover affiliated with a major van line for a local move. Van Line affiliated movers were perceived as too expensive.
While I can certainly understand why people think that way, it is far from the truth. For instance, Continental's local move rates are very similar to a number of smaller movers. Continental is a locally owned company just like all of the smaller movers. When Continental performs moves locally, they do it as a local moving company, with no fees or involvement with the Van Line.
So, what's the message here? Why not use a mover with outstanding quality, certified movers, new well-maintained equipment, all for the same rate as a small moving company.

Friday, January 16, 2009

So How do you move Plasma and LCD TVs?


Several people have asked how to best move plasma and LCD TVs. For us, the process is a bit simpler. We have a customized crate with closed cell foam inserts. These crates provide complete protection to the TV. We use these crates on local moves.
When we move TVs farther, we rely upon custom cartons designed specifically for transporting the flat tvs. These have foam inserts for the corners that can be cut to conform to the TV's dimension's. They run approximately $200.
Should you decide to move a TV yourself, it is best to keep the TV upright and either boxed or fully padded. The surface of a LCD TV can be damaged if touched with sharp or hard items.
I have not heard of cartons available for purchase for self moves, so if you have a place to keep your original packing materials, it is a good idea to do so.
As with all electronics moved during the winter, it is a good idea to allow the units to come to room temperature before plugging them in.