Hiring a Moving Company or DIY.
Moving can be a lot of work. Between packing, loading, transportation and unloading, even a relatively small move can take more time and effort than expected.
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to handle the move yourself or hire a professional moving company. The right choice depends on the size of your move, the distance you’re traveling, your budget and how much of the work you’re comfortable doing yourself.
Start by Comparing the Real Costs
A do-it-yourself move may appear less expensive, but remember to include all of the potential costs. Depending on your move, these may include a rental truck, mileage, fuel, moving equipment, packing supplies and help with loading or unloading.
When comparing professional movers, request written estimates and make sure you understand what services are included.
For interstate moves, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) distinguishes between binding and non-binding estimates. A binding estimate generally establishes the price for the shipment and services listed in the estimate. A non-binding estimate is an approximation, with final charges determined according to the applicable rules and services provided.
Get More Than One Estimate
Getting estimates from several moving companies makes it easier to compare prices and services.
Don’t automatically choose the lowest price. An unusually low estimate may be a reason to ask additional questions about what is included, whether the company uses its own employees or subcontractors, and what circumstances could result in additional charges.
Before choosing a mover, get the estimate in writing and review it carefully.
Research the Moving Company
Recommendations from friends, family and local professionals can be a useful starting point, but do your own research as well.
For an interstate move, verify that the mover or broker is properly registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. FMCSA also provides information about mover and broker complaint history.
Before signing an agreement, make sure you understand who will actually transport your belongings, the services included in the price, the payment terms and how claims for damaged or missing belongings are handled.
When Does DIY Moving Make Sense?
Doing the move yourself can be practical when you’re moving a relatively small amount of belongings, traveling a short distance or have enough help available for loading and unloading.
It can also make sense when you’re moving belongings gradually into a nearby self-storage unit rather than relocating an entire household at once.
When Might Professional Movers Make Sense?
Professional movers may be worth considering for larger households, heavy furniture, long-distance moves or situations where time and physical labor are major concerns.
The important thing is to compare the total cost and amount of work involved, rather than assuming that either DIY moving or hiring professionals will always be the better choice.
Storage Can Make Moving Easier
You don’t necessarily have to move everything from one home directly into another on the same day.
A storage unit can provide temporary space for furniture, boxes and household belongings while you’re preparing a home for sale, waiting to move into a new home, renovating or simply trying to make the moving process more manageable.
Westore Mini Storage offers a variety of storage unit sizes in North Central San Antonio for customers who need extra space during a move. Our staff can help you compare available sizes based on the amount you plan to store.
