Overview

Before you start comparing prices on moving services, you need to determine what kind of move you’re looking at.  Do you need movers to do the loading and unloading, or just the driving?  Do you need movers at all?  Figuring out the best type of move for you is not difficult, but it requires knowing the basics.

Four types of moves

1. Full-service move - In a full-service move, a moving company will load your stuff into the truck, do the driving, and then unload it at your new home. They might also offer additional services, such as packing and unpacking or temporary storage. This is typically the most expensive option.
2. You-pack service - Hiring a You-Pack service still involves hiring movers, but you’re going to be the one doing the loading and unloading. The moving company will deliver a storage container to your house, which you fill yourself and they then transport for you to your new place.
3. Truck rental - If you can load your own stuff and drive a truck, then renting a moving truck (and recruiting a few friends) might be the right choice for your move. Renting a moving truck is much cheaper than a full-service move, but don’t forget to consider the cost of gas when estimating the total price.
4. Do it yourself - in the do-it-yourself move, you pack, load and transport everything by yourself, whether in your own car with multiple trips or in a friend’s pick up truck.

The right move for you

So which is the way to go? Here are some things to consider before making your decision:

• How much time do you have? If you simply don’t have time to spend on loading up a truck and doing your own driving, then the decision is easy: you need full-service movers.

• Is it worth your time? If you’re thinking about going with self-service or a truck rental, don’t forget to consider the value of your own hours and effort.

• Can you move your stuff without help? Professional movers have the tools, trucks and skill set to move just about anything safety and efficiently.  You, on the other hand, might not.

• How much money can you spend on moving?  If you have $100 on hand, you might have to force a do-it-yourself move no matter what your ideal situation would be.  Conversely, if you have $10,000 to spend, you can probably safely make any choice.  Use our moving cost calculator to get a better idea of how much a move would cost you.

• Where are you moving? Moving across town takes a lot less effort and affords you a lot more flexibility than moving across the country.

In making your decision, consider the pros and cons of your moving options thoroughly.  Once you’ve evaluated your moving options, make a choice.  There’s still a lot to be done.

Next Step: Finding a Moving Service

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