Below are a few of our trusted partners in the Kern County area. We hope this list can be utilized as a helpful tool for your family or company. Please click on their logo to view their website.

Thank you for visiting our Valuation Coverage/Options page. This is an important step to becoming educated about the moving process. At Hansen’s Moving and Storage, our team works hard every day to make sure each move is performed in a professional and safe way. Unfortunately, in our business, accidents do happen. That is why we have made it a point to address this issue in a clear and transparent way, allowing you the customer to make an educated determination on your valuation coverage and the claims process.

When hiring a moving company you want to make sure you do your homework. In the state of California, you want to make sure you are always using a Public Utilities Commission licensed company. The PUC regulates rates, licensing and valuation coverage required by movers in California. Just because a company tells you they have “Valuation” does not mean they are licensed by the PUC. A company may have Valuation on their vehicle, but they may have proper liability coverage or honor the PUC regulated coverage. In California, the PUC requires that a moving company carries .60 cents per pound. This is not the same a full replacement or full value valuation. Many moving companies will only offer this valuation because it is the minimum required, and it places the majority of the burden on the customer.

Movers will require that the customer sign a waiver and release form that limits the liability to the minimum required .60 cents per pound. An example for why this is standard would be an average move that costs around $500. If there was a damage to a desktop computer or a flat screen television that cost $2,000 the moving company would risk too much liability. If there were multiple high-value items that were damaged, the liability would more than outpace profits. This standard in the industry can leave the customer carrying the bulk of the liability. That is why Hansen’s Moving and Storage provides a couple of different options when it comes to Valuation. This allows the customer to make an educated decision based on the value of their possessions.

Standard coverage

At no additional charge, we offer the PUC mandated .60 cent per pound waiver and release for damages or missing items. Though this is no extra charge, it can shift the liability on to the customer depending on the value of their goods since this is not full value valuation. The below chart is an example of what some damaged items would be valued under this option:

 

In the event that something is damaged and the item can be fixed at a cost less than the settlement amount, we will give the customer the option of repair or the settlement value. If you have any questions about this coverage, please do not hesitate to contact our office prior to your move date.

Full Value Coverage Option

This option allows the customer to provide a value to their entire shipment, and purchase additional coverage according to that value. Our partners at MovingInsurance.com can help you purchase this additional coverage and answer any questions you might have regarding this option. Call MovingInsurance.com at 1-888-893-8835 and let them know you are using Hansen’s Moving and Storage or give them entity 12995.

Be sure to purchase this valuation well before your scheduled move date. This Valuation requires some documentation, as well as an inventory process prior to the move.

Single Item Coverage Option

This option allows the customer to insure a single item at a specific value. For example, if you have an antique hutch that has a high value, you can insure that item without insuring the entire shipment. Our partners at MovingInsurance.com can help you purchase single item coverage and answer any questions you may have regarding this option. Call MovingInsurance.com at 1-888-893-8835 and let them know you are using Hansen’s Moving and Storage or give them entity 12995.

Be sure to purchase this valuation well before your scheduled move date. This valuation requires some documentation, as well as an inventory process prior to the move.

Homeowners/Renters Valuation Option

We recommend checking with your homeowners or renters valuation to see if they offer any policy above the $.60 per pound provided by the moving company. They may provide this at no cost or charge a small fee. They may also require documentation that you are using a licensed and properly insured moving company.

Thank you for visiting this portion of our website. It is important to us that our customers become educated about their move process. We want our customers to know that we try to be as upfront and honest as we can about some of the unfortunate but inevitable parts of the moving industry.

If you have any further questions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the office at 661-632-6598 or email us at LetsMove@HansensMove.com.

We try to make your moving process as simple and stress free as possible. To help make your transition easier, we have put together this list of important phone numbers and websites for service providers in the Bakersfield area. You may need to contact these providers to switch or cancel your services.

USPS
1-800-275-8777
http://moversguide.usps.com

DMV (Voter Registration, Driver’s License)
1-800-777-0133
http://www.ca.gov/

Department of Education
1-916-319-0800
http://www.cde.ca.gov/index.asp

Bakersfield Police Department (Non-Emergency)
1-661-327-7111
http://www.bakersfieldcity.us/police/

Major service providers

Pacific Gas & Electric
1-800-743-5000
http://www.pge.com/

California Water Service Company
1-925-447-4900
https://www.calwater.com/

The Gas Company
1-877-238-0092
http://www.socalgas.com/

Bright House Networks
1-661-323-4892
https://brighthouse.com/

Direct TV
1-800-494-4388
http://www.directv.com

Dish
1-888-825-2557
http://www.dish.com

AT&T
1-800-288-2020
http://www.att.com/

Bakersfield Californian
1-661-395-7500
http://www.bakersfield.com/Subscribers

One Month Before Moving Day

• Contact Hansen’s Moving and Storage for a free moving estimate and book your moving day. If you are planning a move in the summer, you may wish to call us a month in advance to ensure availability on your desired moving day.
• Order moving boxes and packing supplies.
• Begin packing. Clearly label boxes with name, contents, and destination for the box (i.e. “DR” for Dining Room, “MBR” for Master Bedroom).
• Sort, discard, and donate unwanted items.
• Notify the post office.
• Notify doctors, dentists, and other health service providers.
• Notify the human resources and/or payroll department at work.
• Confirm elevator, loading dock, and parking reservations/parking permits for moving day at both current and destination addresses.

Two Weeks Before Moving Day

• Make arrangements for disassembly of specialty items (pianos, swing sets, etc.).
• Make arrangements for child care and/or a pet sitter for moving day.
• Arrange for time off from work to prepare for the move and to be present on moving day.
• Notify your local department of motor vehicles for change of address on your driver’s license.
• Notify the necessary utility companies:
• Telephone
• Cell Phone
• Electric
• Gas/Oil (also, schedule gas appliances to be disconnected)
• Cable
• Internet Service Provider
• Water
• Home security/alarm

One Week Before Moving Day

• Pack fragile and loose items from drawers into moving boxes.
• Confirm your moving day and time with your moving company. Hansen’s Moving and Storage’s move coordinators will contact you 1-3 days prior to the move to ensure that all details are accurate for moving day.
• Choose the appropriate valuation (moving insurance) option. Hansen’s Moving and Storage’s professionals are happy to assist with this process.
• Remove all permanently affixed items that you wish to take from walls and ceilings (drapes, lighting fixtures, ceiling fans, etc.).
• Change address with all newspapers, magazines, and other periodicals to which you subscribe.
• Alert friends and family to new address with Hansen’s Moving and Storage e-cards.

One Day Before Moving Day

• Consolidate clearly marked moving boxes of fragile items in one area of your home. Alert the movers about these moving boxes on moving day.
• Identify furniture that is fragile or has been weakened by previous damage and bring it to your mover’s attention on moving day.
• Separate and mark items not intended to be moved by your movers.
• Isolate checkbook, keys, passports, plane tickets, cash, credit cards, and prescription medications. These should travel with you in your personal vehicle on moving day.
• Defrost, drain, wash, and dry refrigerators and freezers.
• Drain gasoline and oil from lawn mowers, generators, snow blowers, etc.
• Disconnect propane tank from gas grill. Your movers will not be able to transport the tank on moving day.
• Clear walkways and driveway during inclement weather.

Moving can be expensive, especially when you’re heading to a coastal city where things might get a bit pricier. Whether it’s the cost of hiring movers or the price of packing materials, the bills add up quickly. But there are ways to reduce moving costs. Learn about the seven practical strategies to help you save money when planning your move and start a new life chapter without the all-too-familiar financial headache.

Plan your move during off-peak times

Timing your move wisely can lead to significant savings. Moving companies often charge more during peak seasons and at the beginning or end of the month. To avoid these higher rates:

• Move during the off-season. Late fall, winter, or early spring are typically cheaper times to move.
• Choose mid-week dates. Weekends and the first or last days of the month are in high demand, so moving mid-week or mid-month can reduce costs.
• Book in advance. Early booking can sometimes lock in lower rates, especially if you move during a less busy time.
  So, when you’re planning your move, consider these factors. You’ll score better offers and make it easier on your budget.

So, when you’re planning your move, consider these factors. You’ll score better offers and make it easier on your budget.

Lighten your load

One of the easiest ways to reduce moving costs is to reduce the number of items you’re taking with you. The less you have to move, the less you’ll pay in moving fees. This is especially true if you’re paying by weight or volume. According to the movers Bakersfield CA offers, people who take the time to declutter before a move can save a significant amount of money. Consider selling, donating, or recycling items you no longer need. Not only will this reduce your costs, but it will also make unpacking in your new home much easier. Start by sorting your belongings into categories: keep, sell, donate, and discard. The more you can let go of, the more you’ll save when it comes time to load up the moving truck.

Secure packing supplies for free

Packing supplies can quickly become a hidden expense during your move, but there are ways to avoid those costs. Instead of buying new boxes and packing materials, consider sourcing them for free. Many local stores, such as grocery stores and big-box retailers, are often willing to give away sturdy boxes if you ask. You can also check online platforms where people offer used packing supplies for free. If you’re using packing services Bakersfield companies offer, you might even be able to get some supplies included in your moving package or at a discounted rate. When you secure free or low-cost packing materials, you can significantly reduce one of the sneakier expenses associated with moving.

Get multiple moving quotes

Getting multiple quotes from different moving companies is essential to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Here’s how to approach it:

• Request at least three quotes. This gives you a good comparison of services and prices.
• Compare services offered. Don’t just focus on the price—look at what’s included, like packing, insurance, and additional fees.
• Ask about price matching. Some companies may match or beat competitors’ quotes if you ask.

You don’t need too much time to compare and negotiate, yet that can help you find the most cost-effective option for your move.

One of the ways to reduce moving costs is to do it yourself when possible

Handling some aspects of your move yourself can lead to significant savings. Tasks like packing your belongings, disassembling furniture, or even transporting smaller items in your vehicle can cut down on the need for professional services. While hiring professionals is essential for heavy lifting or long-distance moves, taking on these smaller tasks yourself reduces the overall cost. For shorter moves, especially within the same region, renting a truck and enlisting the help of friends or family might be more cost-effective than full-service movers. However, if you’re considering a move within a more specific area, like Kern County, local movers Kern County provides, might offer affordable, flexible services that can complement your DIY efforts. Balancing what you can do yourself with what you need professionals for is a smart way to manage your moving budget. On the other hand, make sure you don’t take on a task you’ve never done before, as it can create even more costs than hiring the pros to do it for you.

Enlist friends and family

Getting help from friends and family is a tried-and-true way to save money during a move. Instead of paying for extra labor, consider asking those close to you to lend a hand with packing, loading, or even driving the moving truck. This can cut down on the number of hours you’ll need to hire professional movers, significantly reducing your costs. Organizing a moving day with a few helping hands can make the process quicker and less stressful. Of course, if you don’t have any friends who possess the skills necessary for these types of tasks, it’s best to rely on professionals. According to the experts working for Kern County logistics companies, handling complex moving tasks requires equipment. In essence, combining free help with professional services can help you organize a smooth, yet cost-effective move.

Understand and avoid hidden fees

Hidden fees can quickly inflate your moving costs. To avoid surprises, it’s important to:

• Read the contract carefully. Look for fees related to stairs, long carries, or extra stops.
• Ask about additional charges. Clarify any vague terms or potential extra costs with your moving company.
• Consider all possible costs. Think about things like parking permits, tolls, and storage fees.

Understanding and identifying these potential costs upfront can help you avoid unexpected charges and keep your move within budget.

Keeping moving costs down

As you prepare for your coastal move, remember that there are ways to reduce moving costs. All you have to do is adopt these strategies, and you will significantly reduce the financial strain. Each step offers a chance to save money, making your move more manageable and less stressful. So, plan carefully, seek savings where you can, and enjoy your new hometown without the burden of unnecessary costs.

If you plan on doing your own packing, here are a few suggestions to keep in mind during the process. Always remember if you get tired, or run out of time you can always give Hansen’s Moving and Storage a call to finish up the job.

1. Purchase Quality Materials – The boxes and supplies sold at the box stores, or the Uhaul dealer are typically single corrugated cardboard and less effective than professional grade. It does not seem like a big deal, but as soon as those boxes get heavy they do not handle a move very well. We recommend buying your boxes from Hansen’s Moving, or a reputable move who sells professional-grade supplies. The pro-quality is cost-effective and will help prevent damages during the move.
2. Use Wrapping Paper – It is important to recognize how a mover will pack your items. Boxes and furniture are tightly and neatly stacking in the truck in order to make it all fit, generally on the first load. Boxes often get turned on their side (unless marked fragile) and can get moved around much more than if they were being transported in the back of your car. Pack your local move as if it were going across the country. It is worth taking a little extra time while you pack to prevent damage.
3. Properly Identify Boxes – Marking the containers will help the move go very smoothly. You want to make sure to write the room in which you want the items to go in the new home or office, not necessarily where they came from. Always make sure to identify if a box is fragile, has glass or dishes, or if there are liquids and the box needs to always remain upright.
4. Pack Everything – On big factor that can cause an overrun on a move bill is being under-prepared. Again, keep in mind that things need to stack neatly on a truck. Small desktop and countertop items cannot be safely or efficiently stacked in a moving truck. When you get done packing, look around the house and see if there are any small items left. You can never be too prepared on move day.
5. Organize Packed Boxes – Once you have the room packed up, stack all the boxes neatly about shoulder-high. This will give the movers the ability to take neat stacks directly using a hand truck. having the boxes for each room stacked neatly will help the boxes come off the truck at unload by room. Keep in mind that you always want heavy boxes on the bottom, and light boxes on the tip.
6. Unhook and Unbolt – If you want to save time and money, make sure everything is unhooked and unbolted before the movers arrive. If you have the ability to take bed frames apart and disconnect your appliances, that will really help the move go quickly. One king-sized bed can take two men fifteen minutes to unhook and put back together. These small tasks can add up over time. Keep in mind that movers will typically not unhook or hook up electronics or televisions from the wall. We also recommend purchasing new washer hoses to be installed at the new home. Washer hoses can become less effective one they have been unhooked after a long period of time, leading to leaks and flooding.
7. Sell or Dispose of Unwanted Items – There is no better “spring cleaning” than moving. Take advantage of this time to dispose of, sell, or donate any unwanted items before you spend money moving them.
8. Use the Correct Boxes – Sometimes it can be temping to pack as much as you can into the biggest box you can find. This can end up with boxes that are too heaving to lift, and boxes that will tear during the move process. Make sure you are using the small book boxes for your heaviest items, and use the larger boxes for the light items.
9. Damages – Keep in mind that movers are not responsible for any containers packed by owner (PBO). Moving companies are also not responsible for any items they pack into boxes provided by the shipper. If you choose to do your own packing, make sure you consider the risk of damages during the process.
10. Valuation – Make sure you visit our Valuation Coverage/Options page in our Resources section. Moving companies are responsible for .60 cents per lb for items they pack, and carry no responsibility for items they do not pack. Always take time to consider whether full-value valuation is a valuable option for your items, or standard coverage is suitable.

These are just some helpful tips to make for a smooth move process. If you have any further questions about how to pack or want to schedule a team from Hansen’s Moving and Storage to handle the packing please call (661) 834-2411.