When you’re searching for reliable local movers, the last thing you want is to stress about whether your stuff will make it safely to your new place. Finding the right moving company might seem simple, but there’s actually a lot more to it than just picking the cheapest option and hoping for the best.
Moving across town can be tricky. You’ve got to coordinate timing, figure out parking, and somehow get that heavy couch down three flights of stairs without throwing out your back.
Even though you’re not going far, choosing professional moving services requires careful research and the right approach. But before you decide to tackle it yourself, consider what makes professional assistance worth every penny.
According to the American Moving and Storage Association, the average person moves 11 times in their lifetime, and most of these require professional moving companies within the same state.
What Exactly Are Professional Moving Services?
Professional moving companies specialize in relocations within the same city or typically less than 50 miles from your current home. Maybe you’re upgrading from that tiny studio to a one-bedroom, or finally getting out of your parents’ house (no judgment – we’ve all been there!).
Professional moving services take all that stress away. When you hire experienced professionals, you’re not just paying for muscle – you’re paying for peace of mind.
DIY Moving vs. Professional Help
Sure, you could rent a truck and ask your buddies to help instead of hiring local movers. But here’s the thing – your friends might bail at the last minute, you could end up paying more than you think between truck rental and pizza bribes, and there’s always the risk of someone getting hurt.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that moving-related injuries are more common than you might think, especially when people attempt to move heavy items without the training that professional companies provide.
Common DIY Moving Problems:
- Unreliable Help: Friends and family may cancel at the last minute, leaving you scrambling.
- Hidden Costs: Truck rental, gas, equipment, food, and potential damages add up quickly.
- Risk of Injury: Moving heavy furniture without experience can lead to serious injuries.
- Time Consuming: What seems like a one-day job often stretches into multiple days.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
The best moving companies show up on time, ready to work. They bring all the right equipment, know how to protect your furniture, and can navigate tight spaces like pros.
At Starving Students, we put our heart into every move – trusted by 1,000,000’s since 1973! Our teams have seen it all, from awkward apartment layouts to homes packed with decades of memories.
What to Look for in Moving Professionals:
- Experienced Handling: Professional teams know how to safely transport your belongings without damage.
- Proper Equipment: Dollies, straps, blankets, and trucks designed for moving.
- Insurance Coverage: Your belongings are protected against damage during the move.
- Time Efficiency: What takes you all weekend, professionals can often complete in hours.
Planning Your Moving Timeline
Start planning with local movers at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This gives you time to research companies, get quotes, and handle all the details that come with relocating.
According to Realtor.com, having a detailed timeline is one of the most important factors for successful relocations.
Moving Timeline:
- 3 weeks before: Get quotes from moving companies and book your preferred date.
- 2 weeks before: Start decluttering and organizing belongings.
- 1 week before: Confirm details with your moving company and arrange parking permits.
- Moving day: Pack a survival kit with essentials and trust your professional team.
Understanding Moving Costs
Most people are surprised to learn that professional moving services can be pretty affordable. When you factor in truck rental, gas, equipment, and the time you’d spend doing it yourself, hiring local movers often makes financial sense.
Plus, professional companies are insured. If something gets damaged (which rarely happens with good movers), you’re covered.
Research from Move.org shows that the average cost of hiring moving professionals varies significantly based on several factors.
Cost Factors to Consider:
- Size of your home: More rooms and belongings require more time and crew members.
- Distance traveled: Even short-distance moves vary in travel time.
- Special items: Pianos, artwork, or fragile items may require extra care and time.
- Additional services: Packing, unpacking, or storage services add to the total cost.
Tips for Moving Day Success
The key to a successful relocation is preparation and choosing the right moving company. Pack a survival kit with snacks, phone chargers, and important documents. Label boxes clearly. And most importantly, trust your professional team to do their job.
Good moving professionals will walk through your place first, give you a clear estimate, and explain exactly how the day will go. No surprises, no hidden fees.
If you need help getting ready for your move, consider our professional packing services to make the process even smoother.
Why Choose Starving Students
We’ve been serving as trusted moving professionals since 1973, and we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a relocation successful. Trust, Experience, & Best Value. We’ll Ensure You Get The Best Move At The Best Value.
Our experienced teams understand that every move is different. Whether you’re moving from a studio apartment or a five-bedroom house, we approach each job with the same level of care and professionalism.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Over 45 Years of Experience: We’ve moved millions of customers since 1973.
- Transparent Pricing: Dedicated to delivering a lower final bill with no hidden fees.
- Professional Crews: Trained, experienced teams who care about your belongings.
- Full-Service Options: From basic moves to full packing and storage solutions.
Ready to hire the best local movers for your next relocation? Get your free moving quote today and see why we’re the professional mover with the funny name – since 1973!