A moving company is a business that specializes in helping people move to new locations. They can help with a local, residential or long distance move. They can also provide storage and packing services.
When choosing a moving company, it is important to do your research. Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family. Also, look for a company that provides a binding quote based on an in-home assessment.
Packing
Using high-quality packing materials and efficient techniques, movers will safely pack your items and prepare them for transportation. Full packing services include all aspects of the process, from planning to execution. They may also offer specialized options for fragile or oversized items. If you want to minimize your involvement, you can also opt for partial packing services.
The packing process can be lengthy, but the right moving company will make it fast and easy. The movers will use a systematic approach, often tackling one room at a time to maintain efficiency and ensure that nothing gets missed. Once the packing is complete, they will do a final walk-through and provide you with an inventory list of everything that has been packed.
During the packing process, you should provide clear instructions to the movers. This includes sharing a floor plan with them so they can understand your preferences for furniture placement. It’s also helpful to clearly label boxes with their contents and the room they belong in your home, making unpacking much easier. In addition, you should communicate with your moving company about their packing process and ask if they offer any additional services like cleaning or appliance disconnection and reconnection. You should also inquire about their credentials and memberships in industry organizations to ensure they’re reputable.
Transportation
Once your belongings have been packed, the moving company will transport them to your new home. They will load your items into their moving vehicles with precision to ensure that everything stays safe and secure during transit. They will also unload your items at your new home and help you set them where they need to go. Some companies offer additional services, including white glove moving for delicate or antique items, furniture disassembly and reassembly, storage services and more.
When choosing a moving company, it is important to consider their reputation and credentials. Checking online reviews, governmental agency complaints and other information can give you a good idea of whether they are worth your time and money. Be wary of any companies that do not have a physical address or office, do not list their insurance policies on their website or cannot provide proof of licensure and insurance.
It is also important to know that you must pay state and federal taxes as a moving company. These requirements vary by state, so you should contact a business attorney or your state’s website to learn more. Also, be sure to get a license from the Department of Transportation in your area if you plan on operating interstate moves.
Disassembly
Taking apart larger furniture pieces like beds, dining tables, or entertainment centers with glass panels makes it easier for the movers to maneuver them through doorways and onto moving trucks. It also reduces the risk of damage to the furniture and to your belongings during transportation. It’s important to keep screws, bolts, and other small parts organized in zip-lock bags, or use labels to match them to the items they belong to, for easy reassembly at your new home.
Most professional movers offer disassembly as part of their full service offerings. However, a few may only disassemble items upon your request, or charge extra for it. Make sure you’re clear with your movers about what services you want them to provide, as it can affect the overall cost of your move.
It’s important to understand which items require disassembly before hiring a moving company. The type of furniture, its material and construction, and whether it has specialized assembly features can all influence whether disassembly is necessary. Taking apart some pieces can also help ensure that the movers handle them correctly, which minimizes the chance of damage and prevents personal injury during transport. It’s also essential to document the condition of each piece before and after disassembly, which can be helpful if a dispute arises about damage.