Amy Olsen and Les Velte attended the 4 day Maine HR conference last week. Downeast Maine at the Samoset Resort was the perfect venue for more than 900 attendees.
Great conference and LOTS of interest in our Move Management Services!
Wednesday, May 15, 2019
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
Important information regarding choosing a mover in 2019!
After weathering the storm of a driver shortage last year, all major van lines are making pricing adjustments now for 2019 to insure loads are picked up by good drivers and crews. Last year, even major van lines experienced some issues with shipments and timely driver assignments to load and deliver them. In the last couple years, we heard stories about shipments being held for pick up after what is called "pick and hold" for protracted periods until a driver is found and assigned to the shipment. Less scrupulous movers, apparently not concerned with quality service and customer satisfaction, just left shipments unloaded and failed to show up at all in some cases. These companies took deposits, promised dates and never delivered on their promises.
Major carriers, the ones we use, are taking steps to insure their success in delivering on time household goods shipments by retaining and recruiting experienced and quality drivers, Everyone moving wants a satisfactory move, and the driver of the truck is the boss of the actual day to day activities of the move. They organize the move, hire the crews to load and unload Attracting these drivers and move boss' requires compensation and job satisfaction just like any other important job. Their compensation and benefits come directly from the prices paid by the shipper (customer).
Even national accounts like Consumers Relocation must respect some of the pricing demands that dictate satisfactory moves for our customers. The less scrupulous movers can continue to deeply discount the cost of moves to the customer now, require large deposits, with the promise that they will pick up the shipment on time and deliver it in a timely manner in the busy season (May-September). We hear too many stories of these movers not showing up or delaying the shipment for long periods of time until a truck is available after the move has been booked and dates promised. We get the calls from these shippers looking for us to assist them in finding a mover at the last minute since the cheap mover they chose cancelled the move.
Quality Van lines are making these price adjustments now for moves in May through September although we are not quite there yet. Shippers need to think ahead to their moving time frame and anticipate this shift in pricing. At Consumers Relocation we have long standing, written transportation agreements with all the movers we use for our customers. These agreements dictate the terms of responsible pricing, full value protection for the shipment, pick up and delivery performance, and claims settlement parameter for delays in shipment and damage. These terms protect, as much as possible, all of our customers from financial surprises and hardships due to delays in shipments and damage.
At this time of year in particular, these assurances for satisfactory moves are so important to all shippers (customers). Choosing the right mover can save thousands of dollars in the end, even though it might be tempting the find the cheapest possible mover for a move. The old saying "you get what you pay for" comes into stark reality during the most stressful time for any family; moving.
We are offering several containerized shipping solutions through companies with years of experience in that business. Containerized shipments are most often used for shipments under 5000 lb. where they would occupy a smaller amount of space on a large moving truck The advantage of this solution is a predictable load the delivery schedule, full pack in some cases, Pricing for this service is normally a flat rate per container. Sizes of container vary by company. Very predictable pricing.
Let our experienced Consultants guide you through this busy summer season of moving. "We have your back " in pricing options, setting up your moving dates, checking with van lines prior to moving day that a driver has actually been assigned, and all aspects of your move. We are your resource to insure the best possible outcome for your move with our vetted, long term van lines relationships.
Even national accounts like Consumers Relocation must respect some of the pricing demands that dictate satisfactory moves for our customers. The less scrupulous movers can continue to deeply discount the cost of moves to the customer now, require large deposits, with the promise that they will pick up the shipment on time and deliver it in a timely manner in the busy season (May-September). We hear too many stories of these movers not showing up or delaying the shipment for long periods of time until a truck is available after the move has been booked and dates promised. We get the calls from these shippers looking for us to assist them in finding a mover at the last minute since the cheap mover they chose cancelled the move.
Quality Van lines are making these price adjustments now for moves in May through September although we are not quite there yet. Shippers need to think ahead to their moving time frame and anticipate this shift in pricing. At Consumers Relocation we have long standing, written transportation agreements with all the movers we use for our customers. These agreements dictate the terms of responsible pricing, full value protection for the shipment, pick up and delivery performance, and claims settlement parameter for delays in shipment and damage. These terms protect, as much as possible, all of our customers from financial surprises and hardships due to delays in shipments and damage.
At this time of year in particular, these assurances for satisfactory moves are so important to all shippers (customers). Choosing the right mover can save thousands of dollars in the end, even though it might be tempting the find the cheapest possible mover for a move. The old saying "you get what you pay for" comes into stark reality during the most stressful time for any family; moving.
We are offering several containerized shipping solutions through companies with years of experience in that business. Containerized shipments are most often used for shipments under 5000 lb. where they would occupy a smaller amount of space on a large moving truck The advantage of this solution is a predictable load the delivery schedule, full pack in some cases, Pricing for this service is normally a flat rate per container. Sizes of container vary by company. Very predictable pricing.
Let our experienced Consultants guide you through this busy summer season of moving. "We have your back " in pricing options, setting up your moving dates, checking with van lines prior to moving day that a driver has actually been assigned, and all aspects of your move. We are your resource to insure the best possible outcome for your move with our vetted, long term van lines relationships.
Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Household goods shipments and pricing options
The ever changing household moving business has created so many different variations in pricing options in the last several years. Every different pricing option has a different twist that must be considered to truly understand what the end cost of a move will be! Additionally, we are seeing a building demand for containerized shipping options, which has certainly come a long way offering many full service options in this area.
For many years household goods pricing basis was a tariff called the 400n; published and maintained by the Household Goods Bureau. Variations from the tariff had to be filed; but were normally minor.
Discounting off this tariff was huge, and mostly rates were discounted upwards of 55 to 60% off the tariff. National account agreements, like what Consumers Relocation enjoys, offered other benefits in addition to a predetermined discount. These other benefits, which we still have, include full value protection up to a certain level, performance promises for crew quality, pick up and delivery windows, claims settlement periods, and overall quality of service assurances.
Now, most Van Lines have developed and filed their own tariffs which slightly resemble in some cases the 400n, but in many cases to do not. Some very attractive features are now built into these new pricing models which provide interesting price protection and simplify what you will pay.
It is VERY important to understand these nuances since they in the end could save thousands of dollars! One great example is eliminating the cost of a shuttle at destination if needed. At least one company builds this cost into their overall pricing so that if a shuttle is needed, they will not charge your for it!
Picture this, you are moving to a location that the mover has not seen during the estimate process at origin, and therefore have not idea what the access to your new home is. The company gave you a binding not to exceed price for "the services listed in your estimate" Your 3 bedroom home worth of belongings shows up at your new home, which happens to be a narrow road and the truck will not fit down the road, and there is not place for it to turn around even if it did fit. The driver tells you; you need a shuttle! They rent a small truck and shuttle all of your things to the new home from a parking lot location 2 miles away. At the end, the driver adds an additional $1500 for the shuttle and added labor time to move your things. They had no choice. And, since shuttle services were not listed in your binding price as bound, you have to pay this added amount!
Had the move been completed by the company that had the cost of shuttle at no charge in their pricing, there would be no extra bill and your price remains the same as you expected.
So in the end, choosing the company that appeared less expansive initially, ended up to be the more expensive option.
The variations of pricing are too numerous to list in this article. The best way to sift through all the pricing options is to work with your CRS Consultant in comparing estimate options, and potential outcomes of the pricing and features.
For many years household goods pricing basis was a tariff called the 400n; published and maintained by the Household Goods Bureau. Variations from the tariff had to be filed; but were normally minor.
Discounting off this tariff was huge, and mostly rates were discounted upwards of 55 to 60% off the tariff. National account agreements, like what Consumers Relocation enjoys, offered other benefits in addition to a predetermined discount. These other benefits, which we still have, include full value protection up to a certain level, performance promises for crew quality, pick up and delivery windows, claims settlement periods, and overall quality of service assurances.
Now, most Van Lines have developed and filed their own tariffs which slightly resemble in some cases the 400n, but in many cases to do not. Some very attractive features are now built into these new pricing models which provide interesting price protection and simplify what you will pay.
It is VERY important to understand these nuances since they in the end could save thousands of dollars! One great example is eliminating the cost of a shuttle at destination if needed. At least one company builds this cost into their overall pricing so that if a shuttle is needed, they will not charge your for it!
Picture this, you are moving to a location that the mover has not seen during the estimate process at origin, and therefore have not idea what the access to your new home is. The company gave you a binding not to exceed price for "the services listed in your estimate" Your 3 bedroom home worth of belongings shows up at your new home, which happens to be a narrow road and the truck will not fit down the road, and there is not place for it to turn around even if it did fit. The driver tells you; you need a shuttle! They rent a small truck and shuttle all of your things to the new home from a parking lot location 2 miles away. At the end, the driver adds an additional $1500 for the shuttle and added labor time to move your things. They had no choice. And, since shuttle services were not listed in your binding price as bound, you have to pay this added amount!
Had the move been completed by the company that had the cost of shuttle at no charge in their pricing, there would be no extra bill and your price remains the same as you expected.
So in the end, choosing the company that appeared less expansive initially, ended up to be the more expensive option.
The variations of pricing are too numerous to list in this article. The best way to sift through all the pricing options is to work with your CRS Consultant in comparing estimate options, and potential outcomes of the pricing and features.
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
NAR reports a good uptick in existing home sales for February over Janaury.
11.8 increase in home sales month to month February over January. This still leaves home sales behind last year for the same month. Hopefully this positive news plus lower mortgage rates will propel a surge in real estate activity in the coming months!
If real estate sales continues to improve, better start planning your move now if you are moving in the spring and summer! Call Consumers Relocation to get your move planning started before the rush!
Read the rest of the report:
https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-surge-11-8-percent-in-february
If real estate sales continues to improve, better start planning your move now if you are moving in the spring and summer! Call Consumers Relocation to get your move planning started before the rush!
Read the rest of the report:
https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-surge-11-8-percent-in-february
Tuesday, March 12, 2019
Tips on how to load a moving truck! Great guide by Penske
How to Load a Moving Truck
Most
people don't realize there is a preferable way to load a rental truck
when moving household items. To ensure a safer, easier, and quicker
move, load your heaviest possessions in an “I formation.”
Use
tie-downs to help prevent your heaviest items from shifting. It's also
important to evenly balance the weight of your items on the truck bed.
Valuables/Papers
It’s a good idea to keep small, valuable items with you in the cab, along with anything else you might need to quickly grab during your move.
Heavy Objects
Starting with the top of the “I formation," place the heaviest objects — like your refrigerator and washer —in the front of the box truck.
Desks/Heavy Objects
Desks and dining room tables can go in the middle with heavy boxes underneath if there is enough clearance.
Mattress/Box Spring
Place mattresses, box springs, and other large cushions along the left side of the box truck.
Sofas/Couches
Sofas and couches can go on the right side of the truck, opposite your mattress and box spring.
Heavy Boxes
Place additional heavy boxes in the center of the back of the truck in order to complete the “I formation."
Small Boxes/Misc.
Lastly, you can place your smaller boxes and miscellaneous items behind and around your heavy boxes once you’ve completed the “I formation.”
© 2019 Penske. All Rights Reserved.
Wednesday, March 6, 2019
The Day of the Finals Inn Keepers Ski racing series; CRS Team
We all finished with good runs but won't have official results until the awards party next week.
Here are 4 out of 5 of the team. One lucky member is powder skiing in the back country of British Columbia!
Stay tuned for the final results next week.
Here are 4 out of 5 of the team. One lucky member is powder skiing in the back country of British Columbia!
Tuesday, March 5, 2019
Wish the CRS ski team good luck in the finals tomorrow!
Bromley Mountain Inn Keepers race series Finals tomorrow. CRS is in second for the season closely behind the first place team; The Other Ones.
2019 INNKEEPERS RACE SERIES
02/27/2019
Team Standings Best 8
Plc Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Total
1THE OTHER ONES 75 76 80 75 71 76 456.88
2CONSUMER RELOCA 75 77 83 76 73 75 461.32
3WESTON MARKETPL 79 77 77 78 101 79 493.52
4LUCKY CHARMS 86 84 87 82 83 87 511.76
5FORESTRY FANATI 83 86 94 90 90 84 529.08
6THE VERMONT SAL 90 89 88 86 89 89 533.21
7BLACK LINE TAVE 89 91 86 78 145 91 581.35
8PHANTOM 5 98 99 95 98 98 106 597.56
9RAVENS DEN 96 99 102 101 105 114 618.88
10THEFT OF SERVIC 88 88 91 96 118 139 623.99
11EAST SIDE LADIE 107 114 102 109 101 106 642.21
12WILD BOARS 94 99 101 110 128 129 662.86
13I QUIT 104 107 103 104 123 128 672.29
14TACHY 89 91 99 95 226 127 731.25
15SALEM HARDWARE 80 148 149 99 144 145 767.00
16THE BOG TAVERN 129 134 120 113 143 185 827.18
17OVER THE HILLER 158 162 109 112 121 178 842.76
18ALCOHOLICS UNAN 108 217 175 98 152 111 863.84
19JOHNNYS ANGELS 113 198 111 109 165 176 874.12
20THE BOG TAVERN3 138 208 131 101 150 151 881.59
21SNOW ANGELS 94 107 171 99 208 210 891.46
22IT'S ALL DOWNHI 222 170 106 168 163 126 958.06
23GATE CRASHERS 185 191 211 122 105 151 968.20
24CVC 118 129 221 169 167 174 980.39
25SURE WE'RE CHEA 125 138 185 131 227 227 1,034.86
262+2 157 211 182 114 270 243 1,179.56
27HOFFMANS TOO 270 270 270 105 163 210 1,288.62
28HOFFMANS STILL 270 270 270 109 207 209 1,336.11
29LINDAS HAIRRAIS 270 270 236 189 192 186 1,345.42
30NINJA SNOWFLAKE 195 270 225 132 270 270 1,363.33
31HERITAGE TIMBER 212 213 270 270 270 211 1,447.75
32HOFFMANS ALSO 270 270 270 105 270 270 1,455.61
33HOFFMANS 270 270 270 215 215 217 1,458.03
34HOT TOTTIES 270 270 166 212 270 270 1,458.58
35BENNINGTONIANS 217 270 217 216 270 270 1,461.12
36WATTS UP 270 270 113 270 270 270 1,463.01
37TBS 270 270 270 217 217 221 1,465.76
38JEFF IS A JERK 270 270 135 270 270 270 1,485.17
39THE BOG TAVERN2 270 270 241 270 216 225 1,494.45
40TROPHY HUSBANDS 270 270 270 270 208 270 1,558.87
41TEACHERS 270 270 270 220 270 270 1,570.96
42BAG LADIES 270 270 222 270 270 270 1,572.04
43ANGRY DRAGONS 270 270 270 270 270 270 1,620.00
43BALSAM 270 270 270 270 270 270 1,620.00
43DAY OFF 270 270 270 270 270 270 1,620.00
43MOTLEY CRUE MID 270 270 270 270 270 270 1,620.00
43THE MOTLEY CREW 270 270 270 270 270 270 1,620.00
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