How to Schedule Movers

Unless you’re moving into your first place, your belongings fit in the trunk of your car, and your friends are willing to schlep your boxes for free pizza and beer, you have a “real” move on your hands—and the best way to tackle that is to hand the job over to real, professional movers.

But how to choose the right moving company and manage the process for the most successful move possible? Start with this basic checklist, sort of like a 101 intro course on moving for those who can benefit from a step-by-step guide:

  1. Choose your moving date. The busiest times on the calendar for professional movers are at the beginnings and ends of months and on weekends, so scheduling your move for midweek or in the middle of the month is ideal.
  2. Research moving companies at least a month before. Ask friends and family for recommendations, do a Google search in your area, and check customer review sites. Make sure the moving company has a USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number and check online to confirm it. Factors when choosing movers include:
    • How much stuff needs to be moved
    • How many valuable items you own
    • The movers’ policy for liability of damaged items during the move
    • Whether payment is based on a flat fee or on an itemized inventory
    • When and where you plan to move
    • How soon the movers can deliver your belongings to your new place
  1. Ask for an on-site estimate and get everything in writing. Ask the movers to do an on-site estimate of the total moving cost. Then ask for that estimate in writing, along with the company’s USDOT number, insurance information, and the date and time of the move. Confirm this information a couple of weeks before your moving date.
  2. Collect moving supplies. Get free boxes from grocery or liquor stores. Use towels, comforters, and newspapers to wrap, protect, and separate fragile items. Make sure you have packing tape, permanent markers, and special containers like wardrobe boxes.
  3. Allow yourself ample time to pack. Give yourself at least a month. Start with the things you use the least. Reserve boxes and suitcases for stuff you use on a daily basis and will want to unpack first when you arrive at your new home.
  4. Use the move as an opportunity to declutter. You don’t want to pay to move things you don’t need or want anymore. Donate the items in good condition to charity and get a receipt for your tax deductions.
  5. Arrange payment and tip. Depending on when and how you’re paying, be prepared to pay the movers, and upon completion of a job well done, 10–15% of the total bill is the standard tipping range for good service.

Call BB&D Moving today to learn more about how we can help you throughout the entire moving process, from planning, budgeting, and packing to storage, delivery, and setup.

BB&D Moving Services
301-573-5447 (MD)  |  571-375-2826 (VA)  |  786-409-4799 (FL)  |  
bbdmoving.com/