Answers to Moving Frequently Asked Questions

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Where Do I Start?

Know where you’re moving, when you’re moving and the items you want to move. Start by asking for a free moving quote at J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida, Inc.

HOW DO I FIND LONG-DISTANCE MOVERS?

J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida, Inc. proudly have more than 430 Atlas Agents that specialize in long-distance moves covering every corner of the USA. Any of our Atlas Agents can provide you with a quick and accurate moving quote before the actual moving process begins. Atlas is granted complete operating authority by the U.S. and Canadian governments to operate in all states and provinces. Learn more here.

HOW DO I FIND LOCAL MOVERS?

Your local Atlas Agent can also help you with local moves within your community, county, or state. Contact J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida, Inc. for your local moves.

ARE THERE THINGS ATLAS WON'T MOVE?

By law, Atlas is prohibited from moving certain items such as many household cleaning chemicals, fireworks, and guns. View the complete list of non-allowable items and things you should plan on moving yourself here: What are Non-Allowables?

WILL ATLAS PROVIDE PACKERS?

J.W Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. recommends our packing services as part of a full-service move. Our packers are trained in the most efficient techniques and use professional-grade materials.

WHO PROVIDES PACKING MATERIALS?

J.W Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. uses professional grade packing materials to prepare your belongings for transport. We also offer these materials to you at competitive prices if you prefer to do your own packing. Click here for more details.

WILL ATLAS HANDLE MOVING PETS?

We want to ensure every member of your family experiences a good move. While J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. is not authorized to transport live animals, your Atlas Agent can recommend providers who specialize in this service. Alternatively, you can move your pet yourself.

HOW DO I PREPARE MY APPLIANCES FOR MY MOVE?

For large appliances like your washing machine, be sure to empty, clean, dry, and unplug the unit before moving it. Secure moving elements such as doors or knobs with tape to prevent motion. Refer to this article from The Spruce for more: Preparing Major Appliances for Your Household Move.

DO I NEED MOVING INSURANCE TO COVER MY MOVE?

J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. takes great care to prevent loss or damage to your goods. However, should something unforeseen happen, we recommend Full Value Protection. Technically, it’s not insurance—it provides coverage to repair or replace anything that may be lost, damaged, or destroyed while in our care. Read more about coverage here: Atlas Valuation Options.

AM I PROTECTED AGAINST LOSS OR DAMAGE WHILE MY BELONGINGS ARE IN TRANSIT?

All shipments are automatically afforded a minimal protection, valued at 60 cents per pound. However, J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. recommends Full Value Protection (FVP), which ensures repair or replacement in the event an item is lost or damaged. This page explains your protection options: Atlas Valuation Options

HOW DO I SETTLE A CLAIM?

If an item is lost, damaged, or destroyed in the move, you can file a claim. J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. will offer a settlement to compensate for this loss or damage, so long as the claim is submitted within nine months from the day of shipment delivery. Access damage claim forms here: Atlas Claims Services.

What payment methods does J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. accept?

Your J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. Agent will collect payment before unloading at your destination, or you can pay at the time your goods are loaded onto the truck. J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. accepts cash, credit card, or check. Here’s a detailed description of accepted payment methods: Paying for your Relocation.

HOW DOES J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. CALCULATE MOVING COSTS?

J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. determines the cost of your move based on its weight and the distance it will travel. Our online instant quote approximates a price for all moving costs. For a precise estimate, your J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. Agent will walk through your home, noting everything to be transported. Here are budgeting tips to help you move with an accurate estimate: Estimate Moving Expenses.

IS MY ESTIMATE BINDING?

When moving with J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc., you choose between a binding or non-binding estimate. A non-binding estimate provides an approximate estimate of moving costs, so the final amount may vary. A binding estimate guarantees you won’t be charged more than the initial estimate. Learn more with this guide: Important Information for When You Move.

WHY SHOULD I USE PROFESSIONAL MOVERS?

Unfortunately, the moving industry has its share of unethical operators. For your reassurance, every J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. Agent belongs to the American Trucking Associations’ Moving and Storage Conference. This industry designation attests to ethical and responsible business conduct.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MOVE?

The time it takes to move depends on several factors, such as the size of your move, where you are moving to, and the time of year. Talk to your J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. Agent about your timing requirements. We want to meet your expectations.

WHEN IS A GOOD TIME TO MOVE?

Data shows that most people move during the summer, and the winter months are the slowest. No matter the season, moving on a weekday and booking early in the season can help you anticipate weather patterns, real estate demand, and when movers are available. Consult this infographic for details: Seasonality of Moving.

DOES ATLAS MOVE CARS CROSS-COUNTRY?

Yes, J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. routinely moves cars, trucks, campers, motorcycles, and other large or special items across the country and the world. Here’s more information about our capabilities: Moving Special Items.

WHAT IF I NEED STORAGE FOR SOME THINGS?

Storage goes hand-in-hand with moving. J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. offers secure storage, for as long as you may need, in J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. warehouses from coast to coast. Read about Atlas’ storage services here: Atlas Storage Options.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH MY HIGH VALUE ITEMS?

J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. recommends you take small, high-value items and things with personal or sentimental value with you when you move. Here’s an explanation and list of things you should transport yourself when you relocate: Moving Personal Items & Family Heirlooms.

HOW CAN I TRACK MY SHIPMENT?

As an J.W. Cole & Sons of Florida Inc. customer, you have access to our online tracking system. Simply enter your shipment number to see updates on your shipment any time. Or use Atlas® Customer Portal, a free online application where you can build your profile, track your shipment, make a payment, and access moving documents.