Moving is an exciting step toward a fresh start! As a real estate agent, I know that getting your belongings from one place to another can feel daunting, but choosing the right moving company can make all the difference. I’ve moved twice with the same company—once with fantastic results, and once with some challenges. Here’s how to select a reliable moving company, explore options like container rentals, and ensure your possessions arrive safely.
Timing Your Move
Summer and end-of-month periods are the busiest for movers, so book at least six weeks in advance during these times. For a smoother experience and potential discounts, consider moving between October and April when demand is lower. Planning ahead secures your spot and helps you get the best rates.
Moving Options: Traditional Movers, Container Rental, or Both
You have several options for moving. Traditional movers can handle everything from packing to transport, while portable storage options like container rental services allow you to load a container yourself, have it stored if needed, and then delivered to your new home. Container rentals are perfect for pre-sale decluttering—store non-essentials like extra furniture, seasonal decor, or a bookshelf to make your home look spacious for buyers, then retrieve them later. You might also combine services: use a container rental for non-essentials and hire movers for heavy items or fragile kitchen essentials like plates. This hybrid approach offers flexibility to match your budget and timeline.
My Moving Story: Lessons from Two Experiences
We chose a moving company we knew through my husband’s business, which services their company, assuming it would be a great fit. Our first move, a 60+ mile journey, was seamless with a crew of five. They conducted a walk-through before loading, planned the truck layout carefully, and wrapped every item with care. Everything arrived in perfect condition, and we were happy to tip them for their professionalism. Our second move, just across town, didn’t go as smoothly. The crew of five skipped the walk-through and began loading without a plan, placing kitchen essentials like my wine glasses under heavier items. They left a bookshelf and a mirror for an antique vanity behind, meaning we had to move them ourselves. We also couldn’t locate the screws for the mirror or several bed slats and their screws, and my prized bird’s eye maple dresser, a family heirloom, was scratched. These challenges taught me the importance of thorough vetting and clear communication every time.
How to Pick a Reliable Moving Company
Choosing the right mover takes a little research, but it’s worth it for peace of mind. Here’s a checklist to guide you:
- Get Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or colleagues about their moving experiences—were there any issues with breakage or missing items? As your real estate agent, I’m happy to recommend trusted moving companies I’ve seen work well for my clients. Our familiarity with the company wasn’t enough to guarantee a great second move, so always do your homework.
- Check Licensing and Bonding: For out-of-state moves, request a copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” from your local Interstate Commerce Commission office. Ensure the company is ICC-certified and bonded for your protection.
- Understand Costs:
- Local Moves: Typically charged by the hour (truck time plus labor).
- Long-Distance Moves: Based on the weight of your items and distance traveled.
- Packing: Not included in basic bids. If you want the movers to pack, get costs upfront and request an inventory form noting existing damage. This was a lifesaver during our first move.
- Storage: For container rentals or traditional movers, storage and related loading/unloading fees are extra. Get these costs in writing.
- Research Reputation: Contact the Better Business Bureau or your local department of consumer affairs to check for complaints. Ask for references and call them. Request an ICC performance report, though note that companies self-report. Verify if the company is part of a movers’ association, which often upholds professional standards.
- Get Written Bids: Have a company representative visit your home to assess your belongings—avoid phone estimates. Secure written estimates from at least three companies and ask references how accurate their bids were. For added certainty, consider paying for a binding estimate.
- Payment Details: Most movers accept only money orders or certified checks and require payment before unloading. Confirm this in advance to avoid surprises. Tipping movers is optional but appreciated for excellent service.
- Key Questions to Ask:
- Are you ICC-certified?
- Do you charge by the pound or hour?
- How much insurance do you carry?
- Are there extra fees for heavy or fragile items like pianos or china?
- Can I track my items during the move?
- Are you bonded?
- Do you conduct a walk-through before loading to plan the move?
Prep Work for a Smooth Move
Once you’ve chosen a mover, container rental, or both, stay organized:
- Make a Checklist: Start eight weeks out with weekly tasks to keep things manageable.
- Request Enough Movers: For traditional movers, request at least three—two to load/unload and one to guard the truck to prevent theft. Our first crew of five excelled with their walk-through, while the second crew’s lack of one caused issues.
- Insurance Is Essential: Consult your insurance agent about liability. Movers’ basic coverage (a set amount per pound per item) is often insufficient—our dresser damage proved this. Check if your homeowner’s policy covers moves and purchase extra insurance if needed. Items you pack yourself (or load into a container) typically aren’t covered for breakage by movers.
- Confirm Details: Call a few days before the move to verify the schedule and crew. For container rentals, confirm delivery and pickup dates. This could have prevented our second-move challenges.
Final Tips
- Tip Movers for Excellent Service: If the movers go above and beyond, a tip is a great way to show appreciation for their care, as we did with our first crew.
- Insurance Is a Must: Whether you choose a full-service move, heavy items only, or a container rental, ensure proper coverage for your belongings.
- Choose Your Service Level: Full-service moves save time, but if you’re budget-conscious or protective of fragile items (like me after our second move), use movers for heavy items and a container rental for non-essentials like extra furniture or decor.
Moving can be an adventure, but with the right company, container rental, or a combination, it’s smooth sailing. Do your research, insist on a walk-through, and as your real estate agent, I’m here to connect you with reliable movers to make your transition seamless.