Moving is difficult enough when it’s just boxes full of kitchen utensils and bedding. When specialty items are involved, they add an entire layer of challenge for everyone involved. And when the specialty items are medical equipment, it’s time to consult the experts.
At Bekins Van Lines, we know that safety, accessibility and peace of mind are especially important when moving medically sensitive items. Bekins is ready to be your trusted partner for household relocations of all types, including those that include special medical needs.
Why Moving Medical Equipment Requires Special Planning
When moving medical equipment, you can’t simply pick a moving date and pack a truck with boxes. The plan for moving sensitive items like oxygen tanks, mobility aids and monitors must be considered in advance. You’ll need to think about:
- What’s my plan if an item is lost in transit?
- Do I have backups of essential items?
- Do I need specialized boxes or supplies for my equipment?
- Do I need help packing and lifting my medical equipment?
- Does my moving company move oxygen tanks?
Don’t forget that many sensitive devices, like oxygen, mobility aids and monitors, require secure handling. There are plenty of risks of improper transport: safety hazards, equipment damage, interrupted medical routines and more. Often, it’s not possible to do the moving yourself. While it can be tempting to choose the cheapest moving company you find, it’s important to find movers with experience in specialized household relocations.
Long-Distance Relocation with Medical Equipment
Long-distance relocation requires more complex planning than moves across town or even across the state. Long-distance medical transport for a home-to-home move means timing, packing and backup planning are even more important than ever. You’ll want to ensure your moving company has professional moving trucks equipped for delicate items and that it guarantees its delivery date.
Cost Considerations for Moving with Medical Equipment
When planning your moving budget, these factors will drastically affect the long-distance medical transport costs. Determine them in advance to receive the most accurate moving estimate:
- Move distance
- Number and type of special medical devices
- If professional packing is required
- Insurance
Luckily, you can count on Bekins Van Lines’ fair prices and commitment to transparent estimates. That means we’ll never add on hidden fees, and the price you’re quoted is the price you’ll pay on moving day.
Special Handling for Oxygen
Certain pieces of medical equipment, like oxygen tanks, land on the list of “items not to pack” by most moving companies. That’s because they’re volatile, difficult to control and potentially damaging to the moving truck. You can move oxygen tanks and other non-allowable items via personal transport, such as in your own car—though special precautions should be made, like laying the oxygen cylinder on the floor, avoiding excessive heat and time in the car and never placing it in the trunk.
Support for Seniors and People Living with Disabilities
It’s important for people with physical challenges to receive the support they need throughout the moving process—whether physical, financial or even emotional support. Check to see if your local government, senior center or charitable organizations offer moving assistance for disabled folks, which can go a long way towards making the move more comfortable. Family members or friends can also be a valuable resource for planning and supporting a safe transition, from helping pack up boxes to dropping items off for donation to just “being there” for their loved one during an emotional time.
You can count on Bekins to be a trusted partner during your move, too. Our dedicated agent network will ensure you’re cared for and treated as more than just a number every step of the way, from preparing to unpacking the final box. We’re particularly experienced in senior moves, including those that require moving medical equipment.
Choosing the Right Moving Partner
Whether you choose Bekins or another option, it’s crucial to find the right moving solution for you. When investigating potential van lines, ask whether they have:
- Experience in handling specialized items.
- Certified professionals and specially equipped moving trucks.
- Empathy and attention to detail.
Not every mover is specially equipped to handle medical care items, provide valuation protection on critically essential goods or show your items the required level of care. Weed out these companies to reduce the risk of moving day mishaps and gaps in medical care.
Bekins Agents Are Ready to Help
Relocating with medical equipment is safe, possible and stress-free when you choose the right partner. Bekins Van Lines has a long history of reliable and compassionate service, with 125 years of experience caring for families during their transition. Plan your move with a company that cares—contact us to find a Bekins agent near you.
