Moving to a new home can be an exciting experience. However, the process of packing up all your belongings, transporting them safely, and then unpacking at your new home can also be overwhelming. Fortunately, professional moving companies are there to assist you every step of the way. In today’s post, we will explore the comprehensive services offered by professional relocation companies and why hiring one is a smart choice for a stress-free relocation.

How do moving companies work?

Professional moving companies operate in a systematic manner to ensure a smooth and efficient relocation process. They understand that every move is unique, and that the client requires a personalised service. That’s why Elliott, for example, begins with a pre-move survey. These surveys are essential in determining the volume of your belongings and the overall nature of your move. By understanding the scope of your move, they can determine the appropriate resources, equipment, and manpower required for a successful relocation.

Once the pre-move survey is complete, the moving company will provide you with a detailed estimate of the moving costs. This estimate will be based on the weight and volume of your belongings, the distance to be travelled, and any additional services you require. When you sign acceptance of the costs, your moving journey begins.

What is a full-service mover?

A full-service moving company is a comprehensive moving solution that handles every aspect of your move, from the initial quotation to wrapping, packing, transportation, storage, and unpacking at your new home. When you hire a full-service mover, you can rest assured that every moving task is handled by the company. All-inclusive services go a long way in reducing stress, delays, breakages, and unnecessary misunderstandings between vendors.  

It is important to understand that a full-service moving company may at times make use of a vendor or partner when a niche service cannot be performed in-house. In this case, the vendor will however be vetted and pre-approved by the moving company. The service will therefore be rendered to the standard of an in-house service.

One of the significant advantages of hiring a full-service mover is their expertise in a wide range of moving services. This means you can move your household belongings, vehicles, pets, and fine art without contracting and liaising with multiple suppliers.

Why should you hire professional movers?

A full-service moving company may offer multiple services, but it is always advisable to ensure they offer them at a professional standard.

A professional moving company will be reliable, accountable, and show expertise in their field.

Reliability

Professional movers have the expertise and experience to handle all types of moves, from local to long-distance and international relocations. They understand the intricacies involved and can tackle any challenges that may arise during the process.

Accountability

Reputable moving companies take responsibility for your belongings throughout the move and will offer you all-risk transit or total loss insurance. This cover is specifically designed for the moving industry. They follow industry best practices to ensure the safety of your items and minimise the risk of damage. If any unfortunate incidents occur, they will handle the matter professionally. If the incident is purely accidental and out of their control, they will handle the matter through the insurance. It is however up to you to make sure that you accepted the insurance quote they offered, and generally followed their advice for moving certain items.

The best way to check whether a moving company is reliable and accountable is to read their company reviews. A professional relocation company will have reviews on search engines like Google, social media, and popular review platforms like Hellopeter that connect consumers with businesses. How they engage with customers is a good sign of their professionalism and overall ethic.

On the other hand, professional movers will always be accredited. Check for reputable accreditations with organisations like FIDI (a global alliance of quality-certified international moving and relocation companies) and IAM (the International Association of Movers).

Expertise

Professional movers have the skills to efficiently wrap, pack, and transport your belongings. Most professionals will not, for example, use bubble wrap to protect art in transit. They are well-equipped with the right tools and materials to ensure your belongings reach your new home in perfect condition.

What do professional movers pack first?

When it comes to packing, professional movers follow a strategic approach to maximise efficiency and ease unpacking at your new home. They typically start with non-essential and non-daily use items, but this might not always be the case. Items from storage areas, spare bedrooms, and lesser-used rooms may well be packed with the same consideration as your other belongings. Elliott suggests packing a survival kit containing any essentials you may need first at your new home. These should include a kettle, blanket, fresh clothing, and essential toiletries. Hand the kit to the project manager to pack last (last in is first out).

Do movers provide boxes?

Yes, professional movers do provide boxes if required, and other essential packing materials for your move. They understand that using proper packing materials is crucial to the safety of your belongings during transit. High-quality moving boxes are designed to hold various types of items securely and prevent damage during the move.

In addition to boxes, moving companies offer various wrapping materials and custom crates if they are needed. These materials are used to protect delicate items from scratches and breakage during transportation. The movers will use their expertise to select the appropriate packing materials based on the nature of your belongings. This ensures each item is packed securely and efficiently.

How long does it take a professional mover to pack a home?

The time a professional mover takes to pack a home depends on various factors, such as the size of the home, the number of belongings, and the complexity of the packing requirements. A small apartment with minimal belongings may take a few hours, while a large house with an extensive inventory might take two to three days to complete the packing and loading process.

The packing team will work efficiently to ensure all your items are packed securely and ready for transportation. It is not advisable to interfere in the process as this may cause delays. If you have questions or concerns about the manner in which items are being packed, it is better to ask the project manager for assistance than to engage with the team members individually.

What is self-packing, and should you do it?

Self-packing involves packing your belongings independently rather than availing full packing services from the moving company. While self-packing may save you some money, it comes with its own set of challenges. Packing requires know-how, proper materials, and time, which can be overwhelming for individuals without experience.

If you decide to opt for self-packing, it is essential to start well in advance and follow best practices for packing different types of items. Be sure to use high-quality packing materials to safeguard your possessions during transit. Keep in mind that delicate and valuable items might require special attention. You must take extra precautions to ensure their safe handling.

However, it’s worth mentioning that some moving companies may not guarantee safe transit or even insure items that you have packed yourself. Consider the downside of this before taking on any self packing.

How to prepare for a full-service move?

Preparing for a full-service move is relatively straightforward, thanks to the comprehensive services offered by the moving company. The key is to keep your mover informed of any changes well in advance. This ensures that they are not unexpectedly delayed on moving day. Communicate your requirements clearly and provide any relevant information about access to your home, parking restrictions, or special handling instructions for delicate items that may not have been communicated during the pre-move survey before the team arrives. Some requirements may be easily accommodated. But, those that require more time, consideration, or materials than initially quoted will likely incur an additional fee.

In the days leading up to the move, you can start organising your belongings. Make sure that you collect any items that must be packed from the dry cleaners, for example, and that you have started cleaning out and defrosting the refrigerator and freezer.

On the day of the move, ensure that you are prepared for the crew’s arrival. Once they arrive, the project manager will take charge of the move.

Final thoughts on professional movers

Hiring a professional, full-service moving company can make a significant difference in the success of your relocation. From meticulous planning and expert packing to safe transportation and unpacking, professional movers handle every aspect of your move. And, will do it efficiently and reliably. The convenience, peace of mind, and assurance that your belongings are in safe hands make professional movers invaluable during the somewhat chaotic process of moving to your new home.