Hiring moving services is an efficient way to reduce stress and hand off a portion or the entire move to a professional. However, evaluating and selecting the right moving company requires thorough research to find one with the best value for your money without compromising quality or safety.
Start by requesting quotes from several movers. Pay special attention to the breakdown of charges and service offerings.
Packing
The packing process is one of the primary steps in a moving service, impacting how easily and quickly your move will be completed. Professionals are experienced in a variety of techniques that ensure your belongings will arrive at their new home intact. They use high-quality materials, including sturdy boxes of various sizes, bubble wrap, packing paper and foam sheets. Detailed inventory lists are used to keep track of each item. Boxes are clearly labeled to indicate contents and destination rooms, ensuring unpacking is easy.
If you opt for full-packing services, the movers will handle all aspects of the packing process, saving you time and effort. This option is especially convenient for people with limited time or busy schedules. Some companies also offer partial-packing services, allowing you to choose which rooms or items you want the professionals to pack for you.
Before the day of your move, declutter your house to reduce the number of items that need to be packed. Make sure to set aside essentials, such as toiletries, clothes and important documents. Also, set up utilities and other services for your new home and change your address on all subscriptions that send mail to you each month. This will prevent your bills from arriving at your old house and save you a few extra trips to the post office.
Loading
Loading is the process of transferring packed items into moving trucks for transportation. It involves using proper techniques to minimize the risk of damage during transit. Full-service movers handle this step, ensuring that all items are safely loaded into the truck before transporting them to their new homes. They also provide supplementary services, including pro-grade furniture blankets, tape, shrink wrap and basic tools for furniture disassembly/assembly.
Attempting to load heavy and bulky items without the right equipment or expertise can cause severe physical strain and property damage. In addition, the process can be extremely time-consuming, causing delays in the overall relocation schedule. Moving companies have teams of professionals with extensive experience in loading large and heavy items. They are also skilled at maximizing the space in moving trucks, ensuring that all items are secure during transit.
To ensure that the loading process is as efficient as possible, individuals should declutter their properties and remove any unnecessary items. They should also make sure that pathways leading to and from the property are clear to facilitate movement. Additionally, it is advisable to label boxes and organize them by category to streamline the process. Finally, it is important to communicate with a moving company regarding any special instructions, such as fragile items or specific placement preferences at the destination.
Transportation
Moving services providers transport your belongings from the origin to the destination. They may also handle specialty items like antiques or large appliances. They might include this service in full-service packages, or you can buy it separately. The cost depends on the distance, volume and weight of your possessions. The timing of your move can also impact costs. Peak seasons, like summer, are more expensive due to higher demand.
When your move begins, a relocation specialist conducts a visual survey to assess the volume and nature of your possessions. They will then provide a non-binding or binding estimate that details all charges, including packing materials and storage charges. This provides transparency and helps you budget, while fostering trust through clear communication.
The pricing structure for moving services is based on New York state’s tariff regulations, which are designed for clarity and consistency. A typical tariff contains a breakdown of basic charges, such as labor, mileage and equipment fees, plus detailed descriptions of additional services like packing, storage and special handling for high-value items. This allows moving companies to accurately quote prices and minimize disputes. The tariff also lists the company’s warehouse handling charge, which covers storing and delivering your possessions to and from their storage facility. This service is often used for specialized items or when your new home isn’t ready for moving.