Moving FAQ - Ask us anything
Quick answers to all of your moving and storage questions.
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General Questions
When should I start planning my move?
Start early, at least 2–3 months ahead. Early planning gives you time to organize, compare movers, and lock in the best price. You’ll also have more choices for moving dates.
What is the best time to move?
If you can, avoid peak season (May–September). Moving between October and April usually means lower prices and more flexible schedules.
Check the weather before picking your date — no one wants to move in a snowstorm or downpour.
And think about your family’s schedule. If you have kids, summer break might still be your best option.
How much will it cost to move?
Moving costs depend on distance, home size, and how much you’re bringing. Get a free, no-obligation quote from a moving company to get an accurate price before you commit.
What should I pack first?
Pack the things you won’t need right away: out-of-season clothing, décor, books, and keepsakes. This gets the bulk of packing out of the way early.
How do I pack breakable items?
Wrap each fragile item in bubble wrap or packing paper. Use sturdy boxes and fill empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to keep things from shifting.
What should I do with my pets on moving day?
Make a plan for your furry friends ahead of time. Ask a friend or family member to watch them, or book a pet boarding facility so they stay safe and stress-free while movers work.
How do I unpack and settle into my new home?
Start with the essentials — kitchen, bathroom, and bedding. Then unpack room by room. Once the basics are done, add personal touches so it feels like home.
How can I make moving day less stressful?
Prepare everything the night before. Pack an essentials bag, confirm your movers’ arrival time, and get a good night’s sleep. Staying organized keeps the day calm and focused.
Finding and Hiring a Moving Company
How do I find a good moving company?
Start with trusted sources. Ask friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations — real experiences beat random online reviews.
Then do your own research: check company websites, look at Google reviews, and confirm they are licensed with the FMCSA (for interstate moves). Finally, compare at least three quotes before deciding.
What should I ask a moving company before hiring them?
Interview movers like you would any service provider. Key questions include:
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed and insured?
What’s included in my estimate?
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
How do you handle damages or disputes?
A good mover will answer these clearly and in writing.
What should I do if I have a problem with my moving company?
Start by contacting the company directly to resolve the issue quickly. If that fails, escalate the complaint to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) or your state’s consumer protection agency. Always keep a copy of your contract and written communication as proof.
How can I avoid moving scams?
Watch for red flags: unusually low quotes, large upfront deposits, no physical address, or lack of a USDOT number for interstate movers. Choose companies that offer binding estimates and provide everything in writing.
Should I get a binding estimate?
Yes — if possible. A binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate protects you from surprise costs on moving day. Make sure the mover does an in-home or virtual survey before giving you a final price.
During & After the Move
How much tip should I allocate?
Tipping is a great way to thank movers for a job well done. A common rule is $20–$40 per mover for a half-day move, or $50–$100 each for a full-day or long-distance move.
Who can I call during the move if I have issues?
Call your Relocation Consultant or our Customer Service team right away. Our Dispatch department is also available for urgent requests or moving-day concerns at (888) 249-9304.
What should I do if I have damaged items?
We’re sorry something was damaged. Call us at (888) 249-9304 as soon as possible. Our claims team will guide you through the process step-by-step and help you file the necessary documentation for a resolution.
What happens if you get a parking ticket during my move?
You won’t have to worry about it — we cover any parking tickets that occur during the move. Our goal is to keep your experience smooth and stress-free, even if city parking throws a curveball.
How will the movers know what to take and what to leave?
From your first consultation, your Relocation Specialist creates a detailed inventory of items to be moved and items to stay behind. Our crew works from this list on moving day so nothing is missed.
Can the movers arrange my furniture in the new home?
Yes! Our team can place furniture according to your floor plan. If you’d like, we also offer a custom furniture placement service to make your home move-in ready.
Will the movers uninstall my AC or electronics?
We ask that AC units be uninstalled before moving day. For TVs, sound systems, and other electronics, we offer optional professional uninstallation and setup service so everything works perfectly in your new home.
Can I pack foods and liquids?
For long-distance moves, perishable food and liquids aren’t allowed because of state regulations. For local moves, pack them last so they’re unloaded first and don’t spoil in transit.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, major credit cards, debit cards, and certified checks. For long-distance moves, payment is typically due before unloading begins. Speak with your Relocation Consultant to confirm accepted payment types for your move.
What if I have a dispute about my final bill?
Contact Customer Service immediately and request a detailed breakdown of charges. Our team reviews the invoice with you and resolves any discrepancies quickly — before payment is finalized.
How do I file a claim for lost or damaged items?
You can start your claim by phone or online. We’ll send you a claim form and walk you through the process step-by-step. Once submitted, our claims team investigates and works to resolve it as quickly as possible.