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Frequently Asked Questions

We've answered some of our most commonly asked questions below. If you have a question that isn't answered here please feel free to contact us.

How are moving charges computed?
How can I be sure I have an accurate estimate?
What can change the price of my move?
How will I be charged for packing?
What size boxes should I use?
How many clothes fit in a wardrobe?
Do I have to empty my freezer or refrigerator?
Are you insured?
What happens if my goods are damaged?
How can I move my pet?
Can you move my vehicle?
Can I leave clothes in chest or dresser drawers?
Can you move my house plants?

How are moving charges computed?
If your move is under 40 miles it is considered a local move and charges are based on an hourly rate. Charges for interstate moves and moves over 40 miles within the state are based on the weight of your goods and the distance between origin and destination. Click here for a ballpark quote.

How can I be sure I have an accurate estimate?
An accurate survey, including a correct box count, is the first step in receiving a realistic price quote. You can help by knowing exactly which items you will be moving.

What can change the price of my move?
Additional charges may be incurred for the following reasons:

Your shipment is delivered into an elevator building.
Access to your residence is more that 75 feet from the mover's parked truck to your front door.
Your shipment must be carried up one or more flights of stairs.
You add items to the load that were not on the original estimate.

How will I be charged for packing?
Packing charges are based on the number of boxes packed by the mover. This is the most variable portion of your cost of moving. To get an accurate packing estimate it is necessary to have a concise list of what you want packed.

What size boxes should I use?
Pack heavier items, such as books and canned goods, into small boxes and use progressively larger boxes for lighter items. Pack heavier items toward the bottom of the box. Do not pack your goods into trash bags. Click here for more packing tips.

How many clothes fit in a wardrobe?
Approximately two feet of hanging clothes.

Do I have to empty my freezer or refrigerator?
Yes, the freezer and refrigerator must be emptied to avoid the contents damaging the inside of your appliance.

Are you insured?
We carry workmen's compensation insurance to protect against accidents to our employees while on the job. Click here for details about coverage of your possessions.

What happens if my goods are damaged?
We do our best to make every move smooth and trouble-free, however accidents do happen. If you find damage, complete and return a claim form as soon as possible to file a claim. All claims for loss or damage must be filed in writing.

How can I move my pet?
Although we can't move your pet in the moving van, we have some good ideas about how to transport man's best friend. Request a copy of Moving With Pets.

Can you move my vehicle?
Yes we can. Your vehicle may be transported inside the moving van or on a car carrier, depending on the availability of our fleet.

Can I leave clothes in chest or dresser drawers?
Lightweight clothing may be left in the drawers. Do not fill drawers with heavy items which can damage the piece of furniture during transit. Be careful NOT to leave fragile items, money, jewelry, watches or other valuables in the drawers, as well as anything that might spill or leak.

Can you move my house plants?
Hughes RelocationAmerican Way Moving Systems cannot accept responsibility for safely moving your plants, because they may suffer from a lack of water and light as well as probable temperature changes while in the van.

Some states prohibit the entry of all plants. Other states will allow plants under certain conditions; still others have no plant regulations. Be sure to check the regulations of the state to which you're moving. Request a copy of the booklet "Moving With House Plants."