A moving company gets people from one place to another, but many of them also provide other services that make moving less stressful. For example, some offer storage facilities that can be used for a short time or as long-term housing for your belongings while you are in the process of moving. Others help with preparing documents and updating your home and vehicle registrations. Some companies even provide free packing and unpacking services.
Before hiring a moving company, ask friends and family for recommendations. You can also find moving companies online and read customer reviews. You should get a quote from several companies before making a final decision, and try to schedule a face-to-face meeting or video conference so the mover can assess your situation in person. If you are getting a general estimate, be sure to include all of the items that will be moved and any packing requirements.
When selecting a moving company, look at the size of its service area. A national moving company may be able to move anyone anywhere, but local movers typically have more limited coverage areas. They also might be familiar with logistical concerns that are unique to specific areas, like securing parking spots for large trucks in busy cities.
Whether you’re moving across the street or the country, choosing a good moving company is essential. It can save you time, money and a lot of headaches by taking care of all the details for you. The right company can handle everything from packing to disassembling and reassembling furniture. They can also handle your electronics and appliances, including your refrigerator. You can even trust them with your car. If you’re moving to a new house, a good moving company will help you get set up with utilities and connect your internet and cable.
Full-service movers will pack and load your belongings into boxes and transport them to your new location, and they’ll often have special furniture blankets and other padding to protect delicate or fragile items. They can also assist with downsizing and streamlining your possessions before the move, so you’ll have fewer things to deal with. They can even make a custom moving plan to fit your schedule and budget.
A moving company can also offer additional services, such as storage and vehicle rental. Typically, you’ll have to reserve these services ahead of time, but they can help you navigate the process more quickly and efficiently. For instance, if you’re moving to a different state, the movers will know what permits are required to cross borders and they can help you expedite your paperwork.
If you’re a military member moving to a new duty station, ask the moving company about discounts available. A company like Mayzlin Relocation, for example, offers a variety of military discounts and will price match any reputable moving company with a B+ Better Business Bureau rating or higher. They can even save you up to $1,500 on your local or interstate move if you reserve your services early.