We have compiled the information below to answer your most pressing questions. If you need further assistance or have additional inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact our team.
Find answers to common questions about your upcoming relocation.
Logistics & Planning
Budd Van Lines offers an extensive range of services. Many of these services require the approval of your employer. To determine if a particular service is available for your move, contact your account manager here at Budd Van Lines or contact a representative from your company’s relocation department.
We recommend booking as soon as your move dates are confirmed, ideally 4-6 weeks in advance. Summer months and ends of months are peak times, so earlier booking ensures your preferred dates.
As circumstances vary, so do start times. When possible, a work day will begin around 8:30AM and finish around 5:30PM. Traffic and weather can alter these times. Your driver will typically contact you 24 hours in advance with a more precise arrival window.
Avoid scheduling travel arrangements on the same day as your move. It is best to take a flight the following day. This will eliminate stress and rescheduling issues in the event your move runs late due to unforeseen circumstances.
We strongly advise avoiding scheduling your closings on the day your move is to take place. Delays in closings or moving can cause significant logistical issues.
Yes. Budd Van Lines is often able to work on the weekends. Keep in mind that there is an additional cost associated with weekend work. Many companies will not authorize this additional cost, so ask your National Account Manager if your move can be authorized for weekend scheduling.
Whenever possible we try to accommodate your driver preferences. The sooner you make us aware of a driver request, the better the chances are that we can schedule him/her for your move.
For long-distance moves, cost is primarily based on the weight of your shipment and the distance it travels. Additional services like packing, crating, and shuttle services also contribute to the final price.
Packing & Preparation
Yes. Clearly mark “Do Not Move” on items traveling with you. Fully defrost refrigerators/freezers. Empty gasoline from lawnmowers. Remove propane tanks from grills (these cannot be shipped). Reduce gas tanks in cars to 1/4 tank or less.
Normally, two to four people will pack your home. However, the exact number may vary depending on the size of your house and the volume of packing required.
Someone needs to be present to let the movers in and answer questions. We understand you may need to run out briefly, but the process goes best when someone familiar with the home is available for the majority of the time.
Absolutely. It is entirely possible to remain in the house. Just point out beds that need to be left undisturbed until the last day. We suggest packing a suitcase with essentials as if you were going on a trip so they don't get packed by mistake.
The packers will label boxes based on the room they are in and include a general listing of contents. If you have specific labeling preferences, please let the crew leader know when they arrive.
Our teams use unprinted newsprint (to avoid ink stains), padded paper for pictures/lamps, bubble wrap for breakables, and sturdy corrugated cartons.
If original cartons have their original styrofoam inserts and are sturdy, we will use them. If using the original box requires complex disassembly, we may opt to use our own materials for better protection.
Lightweight clothing can generally be left in dresser drawers. However, all breakables, heavy items, money, jewelry, or watches must be removed before the movers arrive.
Yes. We cannot pack hazardous materials (flammables, aerosols, paint), perishables (food, plants), or ammunition. For a full list, please see the “Responsibilities” section of our website.
Generally, no. Frozen food cannot be transported on the moving van as we cannot maintain freezing temperatures. Please consume or donate these items before moving day.
It is not recommended that you pack items yourself as this limits liability coverage. However, if your relocation package permits, we can arrange for local box delivery.
The packers will inspect previously packed cartons. If a box is worn or packed improperly, it will require repacking to ensure coverage. If you ask us to leave a box unopened, you will be responsible for the condition of the contents.
Move Day & Transport
Yes. The "lead driver" or crew chief is responsible for supervision. You should direct questions or concerns to them. Our office Move Coordinators are also available by phone during business hours.
Yes. We provide full premise protection. This includes carpet runners, padding for banisters and railings, and protective coverings for hardwood and tile floors.
Furniture is padded inside the home before being moved. Light-colored upholstered furniture is shrink-wrapped or paper-padded prior to being wrapped in quilted moving pads to ensure cleanliness.
Yes. Standard items like beds and tables are disassembled for safe transport. Items are only taken apart if necessary for handling or protection.
Yes. Any interstate move or move involving storage will be inventoried. Each item gets a numbered sticker and is listed on an inventory sheet with its condition noted. You will receive a copy.
We attempt to wait out severe weather, but light rain or snow won't stop us. Furniture is protected before leaving the house. You are responsible for keeping driveways and walkways clear of snow, ice, and leaves.
We strongly recommend making alternative housing arrangements for children and pets on move day. This alleviates stress for them and ensures the movers can work safely and efficiently without obstruction.
Plan on alternative eating arrangements for the first day or two. This allows time for organizing the kitchen and grocery shopping in your new location without the pressure of cooking immediately.
Tipping is not required but is appreciated if you feel the crew did an excellent job. There is no set standard, but gratuities are generally distributed among the crew members.
If a tractor-trailer cannot get within ~100 yards of your home due to physical restrictions (narrow roads, steep driveways), we use a "shuttle service" (smaller truck) to ferry goods. If you suspect this will be needed, please tell your estimator.
Delivery & Post-Move
Yes. Any items we disassembled at origin (beds, tables) will be reassembled at your new home. If you prefer to leave something disassembled, please let the crew know.
If authorized, movers will unpack boxes they packed. This means removing items and placing them on flat surfaces. It does not include organizing shelves or drawers. We remove the empty cartons when done.
If your move allows for a "debris pickup," we can schedule a time to come back and remove your empty boxes. Please coordinate this with your National Account Manager.
Yes. This is your responsibility. As items are brought into your home, check them off your inventory list. This is crucial if items were in storage or on a shared truck.
Don't panic—it is often just misplaced in the home. Notify the driver immediately if they are present, or call your National Account Manager to report it so we can initiate a trace.
If you discover damage, please contact our Claims department or visit the "Submit a Claim" section in the Customer Resources menu on our website to begin the process.
Special Services & Items
"Load It Once" is our patented modular moving system. We load your goods directly into sealed containers at your home. If storage is needed, these containers are stored securely without ever being unloaded and reloaded, significantly reducing handling and the risk of damage.
The Eco Crate is our sustainable, reusable crating solution designed to replace disposable cardboard for certain shipments, offering superior protection while reducing waste.
Yes. Budd Van Lines provides comprehensive international moving services, coordinating logistics for air and sea shipments to ensure a smooth transition to your new country.
No. We recommend you move items like stamp collections, coin collections, and currency yourself. Transit insurance does not cover these items for loss or damage.
No. All valuables, including jewelry, watches, and precious stones, must be removed from furniture and packed securely by you to travel with you personally.
Wooden crates are used for large, flat breakables (glass table tops, marble, large mirrors), valuable paintings, and sometimes chandeliers or grandfather clocks. Your estimator will determine what needs crating.
Outdoor plants cannot be transported. Moving indoor plants is a courtesy, but we cannot guarantee survival. If the move involves storage or goes to California, plants cannot be transported due to regulations.
Yes. If approved by your relocation package, your car can be sent ahead. Please coordinate this with your Move Coordinator.
Generally, cars are loaded onto the truck (or car carrier) on the last day of your scheduled loading dates.
Yes, but we typically utilize a third-party specialty service for items requiring high expertise (pool tables, grandfather clocks, large exercise equipment) to ensure they are disassembled and reassembled perfectly.
Typically, scheduling makes it difficult to guarantee the same crew for storage-out delivery. However, we will attempt to accommodate this wish if you notify us early.
Third-party services often handle pool tables, grandfather clocks, exercise machines, and appliance disconnects (icemakers, gas dryers). Contact your National Account Manager to confirm what is authorized for your specific move.
No. Propane tanks cannot be loaded onto the moving van under any circumstances due to safety regulations. They must be removed from grills and campers prior to the move.
Adrianne bio
EXPERIENCE: Adrianne has been with Budd Van Lines for 13 years, starting as an Admin Assistant within the National Sales Department. She has held several administrative roles during her tenure at Budd and in 2022, was promoted to Director of Sales Administration. Adrianne oversees all contract maintenance, pricing, reporting needs and other support staff within the National Sales Dept. She also serves as Project Manager on several new software initiatives.
EDUCATION: Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
PERSONAL: Adrianne enjoys her “Dog Mom and Auntie Life” with her dog Twix and 6 y/o nephew. She also loves reading, traveling, retail therapy and her new hobby of roller skating.
Jim’s bio
EXPERIENCE: Jim’s 32 years experience in the relocation industry helps him to understand the unique nature of each move. Starting as a driver’s helper, Jim progressed to a packer, driver, warehouse manager, dispatcher, planner, trainer, operations manager, and into his final role as a move consultant. Providing a personalized consultation with each Client ensures we provide an accurate estimate of charges, materials, added services, equipment and manpower. Jim will work with you one on one to design a move plan that fits your specific needs and budget without sacrificing the superior service Budd Van Lines is know throughout the industry for.
EDUCATION: Jim attended St Pius X H.S. and DeKalb Community College
PERSONAL: Jim was born in Mt. Kisco, NY yet has lived in Georgia for 51 of his 54 years. He spends his spare time with his wife Jennifer and he enjoys outdoor activities.
Adam’s bio
Experience: Adam previously worked in Auto Relocation as a Corporate Consultant as well as a regional sales manager in the window treatment industry. He started in relocation working fully with operations, sales, and customer service. Now Adam is a Regional Relocation Consultant for Budd Van Lines specializing in personalized home moves, providing surveys for quotes on homes as well as Quality Control visits.
Education: Attended Palmer High School in TX, Graduated with a BBA from Tarleton State University
Personal: Adam is married to Annie and they have one son, Logan and two wonderful pups Olive and Ellie.
Adam enjoys basketball, football, playing piano and guitar, and finding time to collect vinyl records.
David’s bio
Experience:
Dave has been with the Budd/Merchants division family for over 30 years. The first 16 years Dave was a top company driver and crew leader. In 2006 Dave moved into the office where his extensive experience as a mover translated perfectly over to helping families receive accurate estimates for their personal moving needs. Dave also has experience in setting up and quoting office & international moving.
Dave takes great pride in helping the customer achieve a smooth transition during a very stressful period. He focuses on accurate estimation and coming up with options to meet each customers individual needs. Dave enjoys meeting the customer at their residence or business for an on-site survey when possible.
Personal:
Dave and his wife Maude live in southeastern Wisconsin. Where they try to stay active and enjoy everything outdoor related.
Alan’s bio
Experience: Alan has been with Budd Van Lines for 37 years. He started as a helper, working on the trucks with the drivers, packing and loading shipments. Now Alan serves as a Professional Moving Consultant, surveying homes for Corporate Relocations and selling private residential moves.
Education: Attended Mount Olive High School, County College of Morris, and Rutgers University
Personal: Alan is married to Robin and they have two children, Elliott and Madison. They currently reside in lovely Blairstown NJ, the sceptered Jewel of The State of NJ . Alan also has a fun hobby of broadcasting at WNTI from Centenary College in Hackettstown, NJ, which he has done for the last 26 years
Doug’s bio
EXPERIENCE: Doug has over 20 years in the moving and storage industry and gained his CRP certification in 2003 and his GMS certification in 2006. He started as a personal move/COD move consultant while progressing to managing corporate and relocation management companies and is responsible for national account sales in the Midwest region. Doug is currently serving as Treasurer for the Wisconsin ERC and is an active member of the Worldwide ERC, CRC (Corporate Relocation of Chicago), MERC (Minnesota), and the NEORR (Northeast Ohio Relocation Roundtable).
EDUCATION: University of Wisconsin – Whitewater
PERSONAL: Doug enjoys spending time with his son, Zach and daughter-in-law Erica. Doug loves traveling to Europe to visit family, is an avid fisherman and enjoys going to Milwaukee Brewers baseball games.
Eileen’s bio
Experience: Eileen has over 20 years experience in the moving and storage industry. She started as a part time residential salesperson now enjoys her full time role in national sales. She has been with Budd Van Lines since 2010.
Eileen is the founder of the Austin Relocation Council. She also serves on the board of the San Antonio as Vice President. Eileen loves to connect people and hosts mobility roundtables across the country.
Personal: Eileen’s favorite pastime is travel. She enjoys visiting new countries and experiencing different cultures.
Mark’s bio
Experience: Mark has over 23 years of experience in major account sales and over 27 years in relocation. He has been with Budd Van Lines for 4 years and was the Race for the Cup winner in 2009. Mark is the Director of Business Development for the Mid Atlantic region handling both corporate and government accounts. Mark is a top producer of business for Budd Van Lines. Mark is on the board of directors for the Greater Washington Relocation Council (GWERC) of Washington, DC and for the Delaware Valley Relocation Council (DVRC). He is also a member of ERC.
Education: University of Maryland, College Park, MD Business degree in Transportation
Personal: Mark lives in Laurel, MD with his wife Toni and two sons Robert and Peter. Hobbies include golf, basketball, skiing and coaching his sons in baseball and basketball. Mark is also a member of the Washington DC Fastpitch Hall of Fame.
Felicia’s Bio
Experience: Fee has over 7 years of experience in relocation and over 8 years in corporate IT sales and management. Fee started her career with Budd as an owner-operator driver team serving relocating families throughout the country. In 2023, Fee accepted a position as Director of Business Development for the Northeast Region. Her unique perspective as a driver will be an asset to our customers and the families they move.
Education: Attended Yakima Valley Community College and Central Washington University
Personal: Fee recently relocated to New Jersey from Seattle, WA . She is a mom of 3 young adults. Hobbies include cooking, dancing, music, sightseeing, and giving back for the greater good.
Pat’s bio
Experience: Pat has over twenty years of experience in Information Systems, providing excellent leadership and quality support on a variety of complex technical platforms. In addition to his management skills, he also possesses exceptional interpersonal skills and an ability to work effectively within high functioning teams. His ability to work successfully with a wide range of technical and project areas have benefited organizations. Pat has backed his professional life with a variety of continuing education courses, and is a devoted life-long learner, keeping his skills fresh and sharp to provide the highest level of technical advice possible.
Education: New York Institute of Technology
Personal: Pat and his wife Kim have a daughter Kira, and son Connor
Ken’s bio
Experience: Ken started his career as a Domestic Move Coordinator in 2007 and transitioned to International Operations and Sales in 2010. In 2012, Ken joined the Budd Van Lines family as a Team Leader. In 2017, Ken was promoted to Manager of Quality Assurance and then promoted to lead the Client Service Team in 2018. As Director of Client Services, Ken manages the Training, Quality Assurance, Coordination and Support Service teams.
Education: Upsala College: East Orange New Jersey
Personal: Ken is the guardian of his younger brother and enjoys spending time with him. In his spare time Ken appreciates live music, cartoons, comic books and performing acts of volunteerism
Kevin’s bio
Experience Kevin has over 30 years’ experience in the moving and storage industry starting in 1986. He started as a local packer and worked his way up to driver in 1988, eventually becoming an Owner Operator 1999. Kevin joined the office in the Fleet and Safety Department in 2012. Kevin is also on the Safety Board for the AMSA. He is a former Committee Chair for the Flanders United Methodist Church.
Personal Kevin is married to Kathy Patrick our Operations Manager and has a son Shane. His hobbies include hiking, camping, fishing and running. He has run the New York City Marathon two times. He is also an Assistant Scoutmaster for the local Boy Scouts in his town.
Robert’s bio
Experience: Bob started his career in the moving industry in 1979 and joined Budd Van Lines in 1994 as a Dispatcher. He was promoted to Director of Planner, then Senior Director in 2014. Bob currently oversees Budd Van Lines Planning and Dispatch Departments, handling all move logistics and driver communication.
Education: Lycoming College, Williamsport, PA
Personal: Bob has been married to his wife Karen since 1978 and they live in North Plainfield, NJ . They have two daughters and one grandson.
Brian’s bio
Experience: Brian has over 25 years in the Moving & Storage industry. He has worked from the ground up as a driver, truck owner, sales, & Sr. operations management. He has been with Budd Van Lines since 2015 as their Director of National Operations & promoted to Sr. Director of Driver Services responsible for recruiting & supporting driver & business operations.
Education: High School, Community College
Personal: Brian and his wife Janet have a son in college. Both Brian & Janet are very active in their community of Robbinsville, volunteering for various youth sports programs football, lacrosse & rowing which their son has been part of growing up.
Tracee’s bio
Experience: Tracee has over 16 years’ experience in the Human Resources field, and, prior to that, was a Labor and Employment paralegal for 5 years. She has been with Budd Van Lines since February 2016, and was promoted to Director of Human Resources in October 2020. Tracee manages the Human Resources team across all locations of Budd.
Tracee is an active member of the Society for Human Resources Management, and the New Jersey Warehousemen and Movers Association.
Education: University of Massachusetts
Personal: Tracee and her husband Todd live with their dog, Missy Butters, and are active volunteers with the Monmouth Council Boy Scouts of America. In her spare time, Tracee enjoys reading, swimming, yoga, baking, and knitting.
Tom’s bio
Experience: Tom Torcomian has almost 40 years of Transportation, Supply Chain and Logistics experience. Tom has owned and managed numerous companies in his career. Tom along with his father designed and patented the Magna Van System. His relationship with David Budd and Budd Van Lines spans 30+ years. Budd was one of the first Magna Van customers and Dave envisioned what ultimately evolved to the patented Load it Once System.
Tom started with BVL in 2019 and led the successful integration of the Merchants Moving and Storage acquisition. Tom was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in January of 2020
Education: Temple University
Personal: Board of Directors: Armenian Sisters Academy in Radnor, PA 3 married children and 5 beautiful grand children
Kait’s bio
Experience: Kait has been with Budd Van Lines for 15 years, beginning in the Risk Management/Claims Department. In 2018, Kait was promoted to VP, Corporate Services and manages the Risk Management/Claims and Human Resources Departments. Kait is also a part of the team that is creating the Budd-E System operating system.
Education: Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
Personal: Kait, her husband Mike, two stepsons and three dogs live in New Hope, PA. Apart from being a “lifetime vegan”, Kait’s favorite thing to do is read – she reads over 100 books per year! Kait is also the Director of a non-profit that BVL supports, Camp Quality NJ, a camp for kids with cancer.
Gary’s bio
Experience: Gary has over 25 years of experience in Fortune 500 sales and marketing. He has been with Budd Van Lines for over 20 years and since 1998 was the company’s leading sales representative. In December of 2007 Gary was promoted to Vice President of National Sales and managed Budd’s business development and marketing programs. In 2012 Gary was promoted to Senior Vice President and expanded his role in company operations.
Gary is past Chairman and President of the Greater Richmond Relocation Council, and has served on the boards of the New Jersey and Delaware Valley Relocation Councils. He is a member of WERC and has spoken at numerous national and regional conferences.
Education: Mount Saint Mary’s University, Emmitsburg, Maryland
Personal: Gary and his wife Pam have four boys. The family enjoys outdoor activities in the Adirondacks as well as soccer, golf, tennis and fishing.
Arlene’s bio
Experience: Arlene has been with Budd Van Lines since 2010, beginning as the Manager, Revenue Accounting. In 2013, Arlene was promoted to Chief Financial Officer and manages the Finance and Accounting Services department.
Education: Norwich University, Northfield, VT
Personal: Arlene, her husband Mike, 2 daughters, 2 stepchildren, and 2 dogs live in Garwood, NJ. Arlene’s favorite things to do is watch sports especially basketball and football. She has been a diehard Los Angeles Lakers fan since she was 8 years old. She enjoys spending time with her family and cooking.
Kim’s Bio
Experience: Kim literally grew up at Budd Van Lines; first working on the trucks then in move planning, operations and now executive management. This vast experience gives him a unique perspective on how the industry and Budd Van Lines works.
His present focus within the company is strategic planning and top level customer service.
Education: University of Eastern Carolina
Personal: Kim lives in NJ and enjoys travel and golf.
Bio
Business Marcy Budd is the VP of Corporate relations with Budd Van Lines. She is involved in many facets of the business with her main concentration on Human Resources.
Personal Marcy and David Budd, Sr live in Florida along with their two daughters. She loves the outdoors especially the beach and living a healthy life style.
Bio
Dave began Budd Van Lines in 1975 with one purpose, “To be the best moving company in America”. Since then he has guided the company from a single truck and service center to a nationwide entity recognized as the leader in executive relocation. He has proudly served on the American Moving & Storage Association’s Executive Board and speaks regularly to moving companies and entrepreneurial groups. Dave served on the Junior Achievement of New Jersey Board of Directors for several years.
