Moving marks a big transition. It’s a life event full of change, but also of possibilities. And as it often happens, it brings plenty of questions along the way.
Maybe you’re relocating within your city. Or perhaps you’re buying a house from out of state and planning a fresh start. Some moves even take you abroad. No matter the distance, your choices can shape how smooth (or stressful) the process feels.
One of the most important decisions is picking a moving company that truly meets your needs. But what do they actually offer? More than just a truck and some muscle, that’s for sure.
From packing and furniture assembly to storage and vehicle transport, moving services come in many forms. Knowing what’s available helps you plan with confidence.
This article breaks down the options clearly, so you can make the right call for your move.
The Main Services Most Moving Companies Offer
In 2023, about 12.1 percent of Americans –roughly 1 in 8– moved to a different residence, according to data from the Census Bureau. That’s millions of people potentially using some sort of moving services.
If you’re soon becoming part of the group and are considering hiring a professional moving company, you probably already know certain services are the backbone of what they do. Let’s go over the basics that cover most types of relocations:
Local Moving Services
Local moves cover relocations within the same city or nearby communities. These are usually billed by the hour. Most companies charge $45 to $80 per hour per mover, so a two-person team typically costs $90 to $160 per hour. That rate generally includes:
Labor,
The truck
Fuel
Basic equipment, like dollies and moving blankets.
A small one-bedroom move may cost around $480 to $640, while a larger three-bedroom move could fall between $2,240 and $2,880, depending on how much is being moved and how long it takes.
Local movers can also provide extra help, with additional services like packing, unpacking, or furniture disassembly if you need it. We’ll go over those later.
Long-Distance Moving Services
A long-distance move usually involves crossing state lines or covering several hundred miles. If you’re moving far away, you’ll pay based on shipment weight, total distance, and any add-on services.
Specialized sources like MoveAdvisor report that, on average, a 1,000-mile move can cost you between $2,000 and $6,900, with exact rates depending on household size and the additional services you choose. These moves often include
Detailed inventories
Labeling
Tracking to ensure everything reaches your new home safely.
Instead of a specific delivery day, most movers provide a delivery window since timing can vary with weather, routes, and load sharing.
International Relocation Services
As you may have guessed, an international relocation involves more coordination and cost. Prices usually range from $4,500 to over $17,000, depending on factors like:
Your home size
The shipping method
The destination.
The right moving company will handle the entire process: packing, shipping (by air or sea), customs paperwork, and insurance. Timing depends on shipping schedules and customs clearance, so experienced international movers help minimize delays and surprises.
Additional Services That Add Convenience to the Move
Some moving companies go beyond the basics with optional services that can help you manage timing challenges, protect valuable belongings, or simply take work off your plate. Depending on your situation, they might be well worth considering.
Packing and Unpacking
Packing is often one of the most time-consuming parts of moving. It’s also where damage is most likely to happen if it’s rushed or done incorrectly. That’s why many movers provide professional packing services.
You can choose full packing, where the team handles every item in your home: wrapping, boxing, and labeling it all. Or you might opt for partial packing, which focuses on certain rooms (like the kitchen) or just delicate belongings.
The crew brings all necessary supplies: sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, tape, packing paper, and specialty materials for fragile items. When you reach your new home, unpacking services can save hours or even days.
Movers can place items in the right rooms, remove packing materials, and help you settle quickly. Costs vary, but packing a typical three-bedroom home runs between $300 and $600. Unpacking is usually an additional charge.
Furniture Disassembly and Reassembly
Some furniture just won’t fit through the door as-is. Beds, large dining tables, entertainment centers, and sectionals often need to be taken apart before the move and reassembled at the new location.
Professional movers know how to do this safely, avoiding damage to both the furniture and your home’s walls and doorways.
This service can be part of a full-service move, but many companies also offer it as an add-on, billed at their standard hourly rate or as a flat fee for certain pieces. It’s a smart option if you have custom furniture, bunk beds, or other large items that are tricky to handle on your own.
Specialty Handling of Valuable or Fragile Items
Not everything fits neatly into a standard box. Special handling is essential if you’re moving items like a grand piano, fine art, antiques, or a wine collection.
Moving companies that offer this service will use custom crates, padding, and secure strapping systems. In some cases, climate-controlled trucks are available to protect temperature-sensitive pieces.
The price depends on the item and the distance. For example, moving a piano might cost between $250 and $1,000. Artwork or antiques requiring custom crating and extra insurance will be priced accordingly.
It’s always a good idea to ask how these items will be handled and confirm the company’s experience with similar moves.
Add-On Services That Take Stress Out of Moving
A successful move isn’t just about getting your belongings from one place to another. It’s about managing all the details that come with it, and that’s where add-on services can help. Many moving companies offer these options:
Storage Solutions
Moving dates don’t always line up perfectly. Maybe your new home isn’t ready, or you need time to downsize. That’s where storage services come in. Many movers offer both short-term and long-term storage options in secure facilities. Here are some quick facts about them:
Short-term storage is ideal for a few days or weeks during a gap between homes.
Long-term storage gives you breathing room for bigger transitions, like temporary relocations or extended remodeling.
Climate-controlled units protect sensitive items like electronics, wood furniture, and artwork from heat, cold, and moisture.
You’ll typically pay $100 to $300 per month, depending on the size of the unit and any added features.
Vehicle Transportation
If driving your car, motorcycle, or boat to your new location isn’t practical, movers can often help arrange vehicle transport. This is common for cross-country or international moves where logistics get tricky. Most companies offer two types of carriers:
Open carriers: The most affordable choice, generally costing $600 to $1,200 for a cross-country trip.
Enclosed carriers: A higher-priced option that offers extra protection for classic, luxury, or high-value vehicles.
If you're moving overseas, shipping options depend on your destination and the type of vehicle, with your moving company coordinating the process from pickup to delivery at the port or home.
Home Cleaning Services
The last thing most people want to do after packing up a house is scrub floors or wipe out cabinets. That’s where move-out and move-in cleaning services come in.
These services can help you leave a spotless home behind (often required for rentals or sales) and move into a fresh, clean space.
Cleaning costs generally run between $200 and $500, depending on the size of your home and how thorough a clean you need. Many movers partner with professional cleaning crews to handle this, so you can focus on unpacking.
Eco-Friendly Moving Solutions
If sustainability is important to you, it’s worth asking movers about eco-friendly options. More companies now offer choices like reusable plastic crates instead of cardboard boxes, biodegradable packing materials, or trucks with lower emissions.
These services often cost about the same as standard options, and they can make a meaningful difference in reducing waste from your move. Some movers even provide pickup and drop-off of reusable crates to make the process easier.
Tips to Choose the Right Moving Company
The right moving company can make a huge difference in how easy (or difficult) your move feels. But with so many options out there, it’s not always clear how to pick the one that fits your needs.
It’s worth taking a little extra time to look beyond the price tag. A company’s reputation, services, and communication style all matter and can help ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible.
Check Licenses, Insurance, and Reviews
These are the basics you should look at for any type of service, not just a moving company. If you’re moving across state lines, confirm that the company has a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and is registered with the FMCSA. For local moves, ask about state licensing requirements and check that they’re met.
Look beyond star ratings in reviews. Are customers happy with how their belongings were handled? Do reviews mention professionalism, timeliness, and how the company dealt with problems? Patterns tell the real story.
Compare Quotes and Make Sure They’re Clear
Get written estimates from at least three movers. Request an in-person or virtual walkthrough rather than relying on phone quotes. This leads to better accuracy.
Understand the type of estimate you’re receiving:
Binding: The price won’t change unless you add services or items.
Non-binding: The price could go up if your shipment weighs more than estimated.
Not-to-exceed: The cost won’t exceed the estimate, even if the weight goes over.
Check what’s included: packing supplies, fuel, labor for stairs, insurance, and what might cost extra. Clarify the payment schedule and accepted payment methods. Some movers only take cash or checks, while others allow credit cards, which can give you extra protection.
Ask About Insurance and Liability Protection
Basic coverage (called released value protection) is often included, but it’s limited; usually about 60 cents per pound. Many movers offer full-value protection for an added fee. This can cover repair, replacement, or compensation if something is damaged.
Don’t be afraid to ask for the details so you can make an informed choice based on what you’re moving.
Find Out How They Handle Dispute Resolution
Even with the best planning, issues can happen, from damaged furniture to missing boxes. A reliable moving company should have a clear, fair process for handling complaints and claims.
Ask how you would file a claim, what documentation is needed, and how long it typically takes to get a response or resolution. Good movers will explain this openly and won’t hesitate to provide the details in writing.
Having this information ahead of time can give you peace of mind if something goes wrong.
Clarify Delivery Timing and Delays
Most movers provide a delivery window rather than guaranteeing an exact date and time. This helps account for weather, traffic, and other logistical challenges. But what happens if they miss that window? Will they cover costs for temporary lodging, storage, or other inconveniences? How will they keep you updated if the timeline changes?
Don’t be afraid to ask these questions and be sure their answers are part of your written agreement. A mover who takes timing seriously will communicate clearly and have a plan for handling delays.
What About Equipment and Staff?
The quality of the equipment and the people handling your move can make a big difference. Ask whether the company owns its trucks, tools, and supplies, or if they rent them as needed. Companies that own their gear often have more control over maintenance and reliability.
Also, ask about their team. Are the movers employees, or do they hire subcontractors or day laborers? Full-time employees are more likely to be trained, insured, and accountable to company standards. These details can tell you a lot about how professional and consistent the service will be.
Check for Industry Memberships
Companies that belong to organizations like the American Trucking Associations (ATA) Moving & Storage Conference are often more committed to high standards and ethical practices. It’s another way to gauge professionalism.
Watch for Red Flags
Be cautious if a company:
Asks for a large deposit before the move.
Refuses to provide a written estimate.
Lacks a physical business address or valid license information.
A reputable mover is upfront about their policies and credentials.
Book Early
Moving companies book up fast during busy seasons, like summer or the end of the month. Lock in your date early to secure the company you want and possibly better pricing.
How to Determine Which Services Are Right for Your Move
Every move is different. The right mix of services depends on your timeline, budget, household size, and what you’re moving. Here’s how to figure out what makes sense for you:
Think about distance and complexity. Short local moves may only require basic loading, transport, and unloading. However, long-distance or international moves often benefit from add-ons like packing help, furniture disassembly, or specialty item handling. The more complex the move, the more valuable these extra services become.
Consider your timeline. If you’re working with tight deadlines (maybe you have to move out before your new place is ready), services like storage, packing, or cleaning can save you hours and reduce stress. These options help keep your move on schedule when time is short.
Review your belongings. Do you have items that are heavy, fragile, or unusually valuable? Pianos, antiques, artwork, and large furniture might call for specialty handling or custom crating. If sustainability matters to you, consider eco-friendly options like reusable crates or biodegradable packing materials.
Balance budget and convenience. Full-service moves can cost more, but they often reduce effort, time, and risk. If you’re on a tight budget, think about where professional help will make the biggest impact, like with packing fragile items or handling furniture. Then, decide what you can reasonably do yourself.
Pro Tip: List your must-haves and nice-to-haves before requesting quotes. This makes it easier to compare options and build a moving plan that works for you.
Watch for These Red Flags
A professional mover should make you feel confident and supported. But not every company delivers on that promise. Watch for these warning signs since they could save you from unexpected costs, damaged belongings, or a frustrating experience.
Large Upfront Deposits
Most reputable movers don’t ask for big deposits before the job starts. A small reservation fee might be normal, but if a company asks for a large sum in advance, or full payment before the move, consider it a red flag.
No Written Estimate
A trustworthy moving company will give you a detailed, written estimate after assessing your home (either in person or virtually). Be cautious of movers who offer a quick phone or email quote without seeing what they’ll be moving, or who won’t put anything in writing.
Lack of Licensing or Physical Address
Any professional mover should provide a valid license, a USDOT number for interstate moves or the appropriate state license for local ones. They should also have a real office or warehouse, not just a website or P.O. box. If you can’t confirm their credentials or location, it’s safer to look elsewhere.
Vague or Evasive Answers
A reliable moving company will give clear, direct answers about their services, timing, pricing, and insurance. If a mover avoids your questions, changes the subject, or seems unsure, it’s a sign they may not be trustworthy. You deserve transparency; don’t settle for less.
Too-Good-to-Be-True Pricing
A much lower quote than others might seem like a win, but it’s often a warning. It could mean the company plans to increase the price later or that their service quality isn’t up to par. Always compare what’s included and look for fair, realistic pricing.
Planning for a Smoother Move
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to moving. The more organized you are ahead of time, the easier it is to avoid last-minute stress, delays, or unexpected costs. Here’s a list of simple, practical steps to help you stay on track and make moving day as smooth as possible.
Start planning early. Book your movers 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
Create a detailed moving checklist and timeline.
Get written estimates from at least three moving companies.
Declutter and donate items you don’t want to take with you.
Label boxes clearly by room and contents.
Keep an inventory or photo record of valuable or fragile items.
Pack an essentials box with items you’ll need right away.
Confirm delivery windows and availability with your movers.
Ask about insurance options and what’s covered.
Check in with your moving company a few days before moving day to confirm the plan.
Final Thoughts: Choose the Services That Fit Your Move
Every move is different. The right services depend on your timeline, your budget, and what will help you feel prepared and at ease on moving day. Some moves need only the basics. Others benefit from full-service support. Understanding your options makes it easier to build a plan that works for you.
Take your time comparing companies, asking questions, and weighing what matters most. A mover that fits your needs can turn a challenging day into one that feels far more manageable and maybe even a little exciting.
About the Author: Preston Guyton is the founder of ez Home Search. He has been a real estate leader for over 20 years. Starting with a focus on South Carolina, he has helped coach and empower real estate professionals to achieve their full potential by meeting the needs of their local community.
