Choosing a Mover
There are several types of household goods moves — which one is right for you?
Full-Service Moving
Choosing a moving company may seem like an overwhelming task. Where do you start? What qualities should you look for? Planning well in advance makes it more likely you'll find a good company, and also gives you time to figure out how much the move will cost. Start your research at least eight to 10 weeks before the move. Most companies give free estimates, so be sure to ask ahead of time. If the estimate is not binding, however, the final cost may differ. Factors that might affect the cost of the move include:
- Size: The weight of your move. The more weight, the more cost.
- Distance: The number of miles you're traveling and the states of your old home and your destination. Some carriers only serve certain states.
- Time: The time of year you decide to move. Moving during peak times, such as the summer or holidays, means that you'll pay more for your move.
- Packing: Many moving companies will help you pack, but keep in mind that help costs money. If you want to save money, pack as much as you can on your own, leaving only the hardest tasks for the movers.
- Appliances: Many movers will disconnect major appliances (for example, washing machine, ice maker) at your old home and reconnect them at your new home. However, movers typically charge for this service.
- Staircases: Do you love your new four-story house? Movers won't. Expect additional costs based on the number of staircases they need to use.
- Pianos: Despite the beautiful music they make, pianos are big, unwieldy objects. Movers typically charge extra for each piano they move. Many companies will provide quotes online.
For more tips and articles about moving, click here.
Self-Service Moving
The newest, and quickly proving most popular, way of moving is commonly called "do-it-yourself" or self-service moving. In self-service moves, the company transports your belongings from old house to new, but you have to pack and unpack everything at both ends. Most of these companies move or ship locally, nationally and internationally and may offer basic minimum insurance coverage at no cost to you. If your small move is within the same state, an hourly charge is generally applied. Additionally, most can provide safe and secure storage in the event that your destination is not ready, but make sure to check with your mover in advance of the big day.
Read tips on loading and unloading a moving truck. For more tips and articles about moving, click here.
