When choosing a moving company, the first step is deciding what type of move you want to make. Some companies specialize in specific types of moves, while others offer a full range of services. Once you've narrowed down your options, it's a good idea to read online customer reviews and check the company's BBB rating. You can also ask friends and family for recommendations. Once you've found a few companies that look promising, ask for a free moving estimate.
Many moving companies factor in the distance of your move when quoting their prices, so knowing how far you're going will help you set a budget. You can also use this opportunity to take stock of your belongings and determine whether any items require specialty services such as crating or storage.
Most movers offer basic liability insurance for your belongings, but if you're a high-value item owner, it may be worth paying extra for added protection. Some movers, like FlatRate Moving, even offer additional coverage for your most expensive belongings, which can be a big relief if something goes wrong during the move.
Local movers offer competitive rates for residential and commercial moves, making them the perfect choice for those who want to save money without sacrificing quality or service. JP Urban, for example, is a Brooklyn-based moving company that provides excellent service at affordable prices. Its co-owner John McCutcheon majored in music at Carnegie Mellon, which could explain why the company has a reputation for expertly transporting pianos—though they're just as adept at tackling other types of heavy lifting. JP Urban also offers reusable moving bins that can be dropped off and picked up at your new address, further cutting down on waste.
Long-distance movers can be expensive, but they can save you time and effort by taking care of the labor-intensive aspects of your move, such as packing and loading. American Van Lines, for example, puts every one of its movers through a rigorous pre-hire screening process to ensure they're top-notch professionals. They also offer a guaranteed price guarantee so you can rest assured your move will be on-budget and on-time.
Full-service movers can do more than load and unload your boxes, they can help you pack, assemble and disassemble furniture, handle specialty items, and offer storage. They can also provide a lot of peace of mind during an already stressful move by providing tips on how to prepare for your relocation and answer any questions you might have along the way.
Some long-distance moving companies have limited service moving companies near me areas, while others, like Safeway Moving, provide state to state and international moving services. For those who prefer to do some of the work themselves, U-Pack is a popular option that allows you to rent a truck and pack your own belongings. Other container movers, such as PODS, can be more flexible and allow you to move on your own schedule. They can also be used to stage your home for sale or to store clutter while you remodel.