If you’re moving a large quantity of items, you might need movers to help you transport them. They’re trained to load and unload boxes and furniture into trucks for safe transportation. Moving companies charge hourly for their services, but you can save money by doing some of the work yourself. Ask movers what services they provide and how much it will cost to complete them. Some companies may also offer a flat-rate estimate. This is a guaranteed price and gives you some protection against unexpected charges when your shipment arrives at its destination.
Before you hire a mover, check to make sure they are licensed and insured. You can find this information on the company’s website or by calling their customer service. Also, look for a binding estimate, which guarantees the price won’t exceed a certain amount by more than 10 percent. This is a good option if you are moving long-distance because it protects you from higher charges when your belongings are weighed at the final destination.
Many moving companies provide a variety of additional services to simplify the process for customers. For example, some companies will clean your old home or your new one before you move in. Others provide packing and storage solutions, such as secure climate-controlled facilities. Some even ship vehicles, such as motorcycles and recreational vehicles. If you have a pet, they can help you relocate it to your new home.
Choosing a mover with these services will save you time and stress. It will also reduce the risk of costly damages to your items and potential injuries for you and your movers.
Hiring a full-service moving company will usually cost you the most. The movers will pack and transport all of your belongings, including bulky items like refrigerators, washers and dryers, and they’ll take care of the heavy lifting. If you want to save money, you can pack some of the items yourself and have movers help with the more difficult ones.
If you’re unsure whether to hire full-service movers, determine what the most expensive items are and how flexible your schedule is. You should also create a list of all the items you need to move, including any fragile or valuable items. Then consider your physical capacity to lift and transport them on your own.
Moving is stressful for adults, but it can be especially difficult for young children and pets. If you have family members who can help, they can free you up to focus on keeping your loved ones calm during the transition. You can also hire a professional pet sitter to care for your animals while you’re moving, which will help ease their anxiety and keep them from wandering or getting lost during the move. Additionally, moving to a different city or state can expose you to new ideas and perspectives that may inspire you in your career and personal life. This can expand your horizons and give you the confidence to pursue your dreams.