MOVING DAWGS

Moving services cost can vary widely based on factors such as the distance of the move, the volume of items being moved, the level of service required, and the time of year. On average, local moves typically cost between $800 and $2,000, while long-distance moves can range from $2,000 to $7,500 or more.

To choose a moving company, get referrals from friends, family, or real estate agents and ask about their experience with moves similar to yours. Read online reviews and check ratings with the Better Business Bureau. Verify the company’s license and insurance, get multiple estimates and understand what each includes. 

To find the best moving companies near you, search online for local moving companies. Use review sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, or Angie’s List. Ask for recommendations from local real estate agents or friends.

To prepare for a move, create a moving checklist. Declutter and donate items you no longer need and gather packing supplies to start packing non-essential items early. Notify utilities and change your address and arrange for child and pet care on moving day.

The best time to move is typically during the off-peak moving season, which is from late September to April. Weekdays and mid-month dates are often less busy and may be cheaper.

To pack for a move, use sturdy boxes and quality packing materials. Label boxes by room and contents and put heavy items in smaller boxes and light items in larger boxes. Wrap fragile items carefully in bubble wrap or packing paper, be sure to keep essentials in a separate box for easy access.

When moving, do not pack perishable food, hazardous materials (flammables, explosives, corrosives), important documents and valuables (keep these with you), and plants (some movers do not transport plants).

When speaking with a moving company, ask if they are licensed and insured. Inquire about what services are included in their estimate and if there are any additional fees you should be aware of. Ask if they can provide references and what their claims process is if something gets damaged.

To estimate the cost of moving, get in-home estimates from at least three moving companies. Use online moving cost calculators and consider factors like distance, weight/volume of items, and additional services (packing, storage, etc.).

For a move, you will need sturdy moving boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap and packing paper, markers for labeling, furniture blankets and pads, and stretch wrap.

For local moves, book movers at least 4-8 weeks in advance. For long-distance moves, aim for 8-12 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving season.

On moving day, have a final walkthrough to ensure everything is packed. Keep important documents and valuables with you. Supervise the loading of the truck. Make sure the movers have your contact information and new address.

After moving, start with essential rooms like the kitchen and bedrooms. Unpack one room at a time and organize items as you unpack to avoid clutter. Dispose of packing materials properly and take breaks to avoid burnout.

To move heavy furniture safely, use proper lifting techniques (lift with your legs, not your back). Use furniture sliders or a dolly, and disassemble furniture when possible. Get help from friends or hire professional movers and clear pathways to avoid obstacles.

In a moving contract, look for a detailed inventory of items being moved, pickup and delivery dates, costs and payment terms, insurance and liability coverage, and terms and conditions for claims and disputes.

Movers typically won’t take hazardous materials (e.g., paint, chemicals, propane tanks), perishables (food that can spoil), pets, plants (varies by mover), and personal valuables and important documents.

To move fragile items, use plenty of cushioning (bubble wrap, packing paper). Pack items tightly to avoid movement and clearly label boxes as “Fragile.” Consider using specialty boxes for items like dishes and glasses and transport valuable and delicate items personally if possible.

Yes, most moving companies offer basic liability coverage, but you can purchase additional moving insurance for better protection. Check with your moving company and consider third-party insurance options.