You’re looking to make a long distance move. You meet with your moving company; they inform you of something called a delivery window (sometimes referred to as a delivery spread), but you have no idea what that means. While all long distance moving companies have delivery windows, some will be more up front about what they are than others. Boerman Moving and Storage wants to be transparent so that customers know exactly what to expect.

What is a delivery window?

A delivery window is the spread of time (over a period of days) when movers will deliver a person’s belongings. This window of time is necessary because unexpected variables may occur, which can delay deliveries. “The moving industry does delivery windows because things can arise–your closing might be delayed, or a health emergency may come up, or inclement weather,” says Ty Mangino, Inside Salesman with Bekins and Wheaton Van Lines. However, Mangino notes that Boerman can accommodate the dates people are looking for 95 percent of the time.

What determines when a delivery can be made?

The size of the delivery and mileage dictates when a delivery will be made. “We go by the Department of Transportation electronic logs for semi tractor trailer drivers,” says Mangino. “They can only drive a certain amount of hours in a day.” Larger moves typically have a smaller window; while smaller moves typically have a larger window.

How will a customer know when to expect their items?

Once customers have booked their move, they will receive their delivery window. Mangino begins creating logistical routes for drivers to accommodate the move. He then contacts the customer with the delivery window a week before the move and 48 hours before the move. “Our communication is so good between the customers and us that our delivery windows are not typically misunderstood,” says Mangino.

What important things should customers know about delivery windows?

For best results, schedule the delivery for after the closing date. And, make sure that someone is available to take the delivery during the dates of the delivery window.

Communication and clarity is what you should get from a moving company. Now that you understand the process, you’re ready to set up a successful long distance move.