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Frequently Asked Questions

As you prepare for your move, you probably have a million things on your mind. To minimize your stress at this hectic time, we’ve put together an FAQ (frequently asked questions), along with their answers. Some of the questions require more specific information, in which case your move coordinator is the person to ask.

Moving FAQ

Of course! We are a fully licensed and insured moving company. We adhere to all state laws and customary moving procedures. It’s important to note that insurance is different than valuation for your belongings.

We have been in the business for over 90 years through multiple generations. We would urge you to read reviews of our company and others to see for yourself.

Yes, we never use day labor or temporary help. All of our moving crew members are hired after a full background check and subject upon employment to both random and scheduled drug testing. Often, the crew members we bring aboard already know how to move, and have moving experience. Our moving crew members are loyal and long-term assets to our company.

Our trucks are well supplied with quality moving blankets to ensure that every piece of furniture is adequately protected. Shrink wrap is used to protect furniture from dirt and to ensure items such as dressers  stay closed while in transit. We offer shrink wrap and padding at no extra charge.

While we can move appliances, we legally cannot disconnect any water, gas, or electrical service to them. Refrigerators/freezers should be unplugged at least 24 hours before the move date so excess liquid does not cause damage to other items in the truck.

Moving appliances should be done carefully, cautiously, and done by a moving professional if possible.

For dishwashers:

  • Unplug all hoses and let them dry for a few days before your move. Make sure all dishware is removed from the machine as well

For washers and dryers:

  • Wrap metal connectors on hoses in a towel and place inside the washer.
  • Follow your washer’s manual on how to properly secure the tub.
  • Clean the lint screen on your dryer.
  • Be aware of the proper power connections needed for you dryer when moving into your new place.

For refrigerators:

  • Clear out all perishable items and clean the inside of the fridge.
  • Empty out the evaporator pan, the water reservoir allowing time to dry
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Our crews can assist with basic furniture disassembly/reassembly. However, disassembling complex items prior to the move will save you time and money.

We use heavy, clear shrink wrap that protects your furniture from being soiled.

Plants and pets for obvious reasons can’t be loaded on the truck. There are several household items that are considered hazardous materials and cannot be moved with your other belongings. These include aerosols, gas cans, paints, varnish, corrosives, batteries, matches, nail polish and remover, ammunition, explosives, cleaning fluids and detergents. Please consult your move coordinator if you think you have anything else that may not be safe to transport on the truck.

It is possible to transport your vehicle with the rest of your belongings -–provided there’s enough room. Please consult your move coordinator for more information.

Be sure to carry enough clothing, medications, toiletries, etc. to last until the delivery. We do suggest that you keep small valuables such as jewelry and family photographs and videos with you during the move.

We sure can. We do require that it be boxed up.  We will place your TV back in its original box if you have it, or we can supply a box for a fee. Talk to your moving coordinator for more details.

We can move disassembled pool tables. You will need to hire a third-party to take apart the slate.

To make sure your pets are safe and sound we recommend keeping them in another room, in their crate, or at a friend’s house while we move. There can be movers in and out and the last thing we want is for your furry family members to get injured or escape!

They certainly can. Speak to your move coordinator about the details.

Ideally, you will be there to help our movers understand where everything goes. This way we can make sure each piece of furniture and every box gets to the right room and the exact spot you would like. If you can’t be at the unload, we recommend having someone there who can let the movers know where to unload.

We understand that sometimes our customers need to postpone a move due to circumstances beyond their control. We make every effort to accommodate postponements, but are sometimes unable change our schedule on short notice. That’s why we ask that you contact us ASAP if you need to change your move date.

It’s not possible to say exactly how much advance notice we require to accommodate your move. During the winter, we may be able to schedule your move with 1 or 2 days advance notice. During peak demand times such as weekends and all days during the spring and summer, it’s best to call 3-4 weeks ahead of time to make a reservation.

Generally speaking, inclement weather does not interfere with a move. In most cases, the distance between the front of your house and the truck is minimal thus minimizing the time that your furniture pieces will spend in the weather. If a snowstorm is predicted, we may reschedule your move.

Your move coordinator will be your point of contact for the entire process.

For local moves we accept cash, check, or credit card. Long-Distance moves require payment upon delivery by either cash, certified check, money order, or credit card. In the event that your employer is paying for the move, the employer may pre-arrange to be billed via invoice.

As with other service industries, you may wish to thank your movers by offering a gratuity if they do a wonderful job. Keep in mind that gratuity is not expected but is certainly appreciated.

On average, our crews typically receive tips that are around 10% to 15% of the final bill. Of course, if your movers were super duper awesome you can leave more if you like. Conversely, if you didn’t feel the movers lived up to your expectations, you don’t have to leave a tip at all.

You can read more about tipping here.

Our company does not bill for mileage or fuel. For local moves, we bill for the actual hours needed to complete the move, along with travel time. Long-distanced moves are priced based on distance and weight of shipment.

Piano moving does not cost anything beyond our standard hourly rate.

We do not have extra charges for stairs. However, we typically like to add an extra mover onto a move that has an elevator or stairs. Your move coordinator will let you know if your situation requires this.

Yes, we have a 2-4 hour minimum depending on the time of year.

Valuation is liability protection. There are two types of valuation: Legal Liability and Full Value Protection. Your choice of coverage determines how we can reimburse you in the rare event that any items are damaged during the move.

Sitterly Movers assumes liability at a rate of $0.60 per pound per article, regardless of the damaged item’s value. For example, if we damage a 10-pound TV we are legally obligated to pay $6.00 ($0.60 x 10lb). Legal Liability is free of charge and regulated through the federal government.

Sitterly Movers is liable for the replacement value of damaged items in your shipment, less depreciation. Full Value Protection is purchased at a price of $6.00 per $1,000 of the estimated value of all items being moved. For example, if we damage a 10-pound TV, and its depreciated value is $500.00, we would pay $500.00 to replace the TV.

Full Value Protection is available at the rate of $8.50 per $1,000 of valuation, based on a minimum of $4.00 per pound of the estimated weight of all items. For example, a 5,000lb shipment would have a minimum of $20,000.00 of estimated value. The Full Value Protection of $20,000.00 worth of coverage would be an additional $170.00 ($8.50 x 20).

Our Moving Company Reviews

Why choose Sitterly Movers?

There’s no shortage of moving companies in the Greater Springfield and Greater Greenfield areas. At Sitterly Movers we believe there are several things that set us apart from the rest.

Satisfaction Guarantee

We believe in providing the best moving experience possible, which is why we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Caring Approach

We know how meaningful your belongings are, and we’re careful to protect them at every step.

Transparent Pricing

Competitive pricing with no surprise hidden fees or unexplained charges.

Local Commitment

The Pioneer Valley is home! We love Western Mass and are committed to giving back to local organizations.