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General FAQ

General Moving Questions
Local Moving FAQs
Long-Distance Moving FAQs
Packing Services FAQs
Storage Solutions FAQs
Specialty Moves FAQs
Pricing & Estimates FAQs
Moving Day FAQs

General Moving Questions

For the best rates and availability, especially during peak season (May to September), we recommend booking your move at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance. For off-peak months, 2 to 3 weeks is often sufficient. Booking early ensures you secure your preferred date and gives you ample time to plan. If you have a last-minute move, please contact us directly, as we can often accommodate urgent requests.

Yes, reputable moving companies are liable for damages, but the extent of the liability is determined by the valuation coverage you select. By federal law, all interstate movers must provide a valuation option in their contract. We offer both a basic liability option (free, covers a minimal amount per pound) and a full-value protection plan (purchased for an additional fee) that provides comprehensive coverage for your belongings based on their full replacement value. We will review all options with you to ensure your items are properly protected.

Finding a reliable moving company starts with research. Look for companies that are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, especially for interstate moves (check for a USDOT number). Read customer reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Ask for referrals from friends or real estate agents. A trustworthy company will offer a clear, transparent estimate with no hidden fees and will be happy to answer all your questions.

For safety and regulatory reasons, professional movers cannot transport certain items. These typically include hazardous materials (e.g., propane tanks, paint, chemicals), perishable food, live plants and animals, and firearms. We will provide a complete list of non-allowable items during your initial consultation to ensure a smooth and compliant move.

Yes, most professional moving companies, including us, offer comprehensive packing services. You can choose from full-service packing, where our team packs your entire home, or partial packing, where we handle only the fragile or difficult-to-pack items. We use high-quality materials and professional techniques to ensure your belongings are secure for transit, saving you time and effort.

Tipping is not required but is greatly appreciated for a job well done. A common industry standard is to tip $5-$10 per mover per hour or 15-20% of the total labor cost for the entire crew. You can provide the tip to the crew lead at the end of the move to distribute it among the team. Ultimately, the amount you tip should reflect your satisfaction with their service.

The cheapest way to move is often to handle as much of the process yourself as possible, such as renting a truck and doing all the packing, loading, and unloading. However, this method can lead to unexpected costs and potential damages. For a balance of cost and convenience, a hybrid approach (you pack, movers load and transport) is a popular option. We provide customized quotes to fit your budget while still offering professional, safe, and reliable service.

The duration of a move depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the volume of your belongings, and the distance. A local move for a 1-2 bedroom apartment typically takes a single day, while a larger home can take 2-3 days. Long-distance or interstate moves will have a longer timeline, which includes transit time. Your moving coordinator will provide a detailed and accurate timeline during your estimate.

For most individuals, moving expenses are no longer tax deductible under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. This deduction is now available only to active-duty military members who are moving due to a permanent change of station. For all other individuals, moving costs are considered personal expenses. We recommend consulting a qualified tax professional for personalized advice on your specific situation.

Preparing for moving day is key to a smooth process. Here is a checklist to help you get ready:

  1. Start Early: Begin packing non-essential items several weeks in advance.

  2. Organize: Label all boxes with their contents and the room they belong in.

  3. Confirm Details: Re-confirm the moving date, time, and arrival window with your moving coordinator.

  4. Set Aside Essentials: Pack a separate “essentials” box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival, such as toiletries, medications, and chargers.

  5. Protect Your Home: Lay down floor protectors and clear a path from your door to the truck.

  6. Be Present: Ensure you or a representative is available on moving day to answer questions and guide the movers.

When planning a move in California It’s important to know your rights and responsibilities. The California Public Utilities Commission (PUC) requires all licensed movers to provide customers with clear information on estimates, pricing, protection plans, and what to expect during the moving process. To help you stay informed and protected, we’ve summarized everything you need to know in our official San Diego Movers Guide.

A Moving Glossary is a quick-reference guide that explains common moving terms and industry jargon. If you’re planning a move in San Diego, this glossary helps you understand quotes, contracts, and services—so you know exactly what you’re signing up for. Check out our full glossary here.

  1. Our step-by-step moving checklist covers everything from booking your movers to packing essentials and updating your address—so nothing gets overlooked. Check out the full checklist.

Local Moving FAQs

Local movers typically charge an hourly rate that varies based on the number of movers and the size of the truck needed. In most areas, the hourly rate ranges from $90 to $120 per hour for a 2-person crew and $120 to $160 per hour for a 3-person crew. This rate usually includes the moving truck, equipment, and labor. Keep in mind that costs can be higher during peak seasons and on weekends.

Yes, most moving companies charge an additional fee for moving items up or down stairs. This is often referred to as a “stair carry fee” or “long carry fee” and is a standard charge to compensate for the extra time and physical labor required. The fee can be a flat rate per flight of stairs or a surcharge per item, so be sure to clarify this during your estimate.

Local moving costs are primarily calculated based on the hourly rate multiplied by the total hours worked. The total time includes the travel time from our office to your location, the time spent loading and unloading, and the travel time between your old and new homes. Other factors like stair carries, long walks, or specialized item handling (e.g., pianos) may add to the cost.

It is almost always cheaper to move during the week (Monday through Thursday) than on the weekend. Weekends, particularly Saturdays, are in high demand and often come with premium rates. Moving on a weekday can also help you avoid traffic and get better availability.

While we do our best to accommodate urgent needs, booking a move on the same day is challenging and subject to availability. We highly recommend booking at least a few days in advance to ensure we can schedule a crew and truck for you. For last-minute moves, please call our office directly to check for any openings in our schedule.

To compare local moving companies effectively, focus on three key areas:

  1. Read Reviews: Check recent customer reviews on Google, Yelp, and other platforms.

  2. Verify Licensing: Confirm they are licensed and insured (check for a state PUC license).

  3. Get a Written Estimate: Obtain a detailed, in-writing estimate that clearly outlines the hourly rate, minimum hours, and any potential surcharges to avoid hidden fees.

A standard local moving service typically includes the moving truck, fuel, a professional moving crew, moving blankets and straps for protection, and the loading and unloading of your belongings. Additional services like packing, unpacking, or furniture disassembly/reassembly are often available for an extra fee.

It is generally recommended to empty the drawers of all furniture before moving, especially for heavy items like dressers and desks. Leaving items in drawers adds significant weight, making the furniture harder to move and potentially causing damage to the piece. For lighter items like clothing, you may be able to leave them in the drawers, but it’s always best to check with your movers first.

Yes, you can absolutely hire movers for labor-only services. We offer flexible solutions where you can hire our professional team to handle only the heavy lifting, such as moving large furniture, appliances, or oversized items. This is a great way to get professional help without hiring a full-service move.

For local moves, moving companies generally do not have a hard weight limit on the total shipment. Instead, the cost is based on the hourly rate and the size of the truck required. However, there may be weight limits for individual items that can be safely moved, which is why it’s important to inform your movers of any extremely heavy items like safes or machinery beforehand.

Long-Distance Moving FAQs

The cost of a long-distance move is primarily determined by three key factors: the distance of the move, the weight or volume of your belongings, and the services you require. Unlike local moves, costs are not hourly. A typical long-distance move can range from a few thousand dollars to upwards of $10,000 or more, depending on these variables. To get an accurate estimate, we recommend scheduling a free on-site or virtual consultation so we can provide a detailed, customized quote.
The timeline for a long-distance move depends on the distance and the size of your shipment. For moves under a few hundred miles, delivery can take 1 to 3 days. For cross-country moves, delivery can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days or more. Please note that transit time begins after your belongings have been picked up. Your moving coordinator will provide a specific delivery window and keep you updated on the truck’s location throughout the journey.
The most budget-friendly option for a cross-country move is typically a DIY approach, where you rent a truck and handle all the packing, loading, and driving yourself. However, this method requires significant time, effort, and can lead to unexpected costs and stress. A more balanced option is using a container service or a moving company’s partial-load service, which can be more affordable than a dedicated truck while still offering professional transport.
Yes, moving companies are required by federal law to provide valuation coverage for long-distance moves. We offer two primary options: Released Value Protection (the basic, no-cost option with minimal liability) and Full Value Protection (a purchased option that covers the replacement value of your items). It is crucial to understand the difference and choose the level of protection that best suits your needs before your move begins.
To verify if a mover is licensed for interstate moving, you should check for their USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number. All companies that transport goods across state lines must have this license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can look up a company’s USDOT number on the FMCSA’s website to check their licensing, safety records, and complaint history. A reputable company will proudly display this number on their website and vehicles.
The key difference lies in the distance. An intrastate move occurs entirely within the borders of a single state (e.g., from San Diego to Los Angeles). An interstate move involves crossing state lines (e.g., from California to Texas). Interstate moves are governed by federal regulations, which means the moving company must hold a specific USDOT license.
Yes, as part of our service, we provide updates on the location and status of your moving truck. While we may not offer a live, real-time GPS tracker for all shipments, our dedicated logistics team will be in close contact with your driver and will provide you with regular updates on the truck’s location and estimated arrival time, giving you peace of mind throughout the transit process.
Yes, all long-distance moving companies are heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) under the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). This regulation ensures consumer protection, sets safety standards for drivers and trucks, and requires movers to be licensed and carry specific insurance.
A binding estimate is a written agreement that guarantees the final cost of your move will not exceed the estimated price. To get one, you must have the mover perform a detailed, in-person or virtual survey of all items to be moved. The estimate will be based on the inventory and services requested, and you must agree on all terms. Be aware that the cost can increase if you add items after the estimate is finalized.
Common hidden fees to watch out for include charges for shuttle services (if a large truck can’t access your street), long carries (when the truck can’t park close to the door), appliance servicing, disassembly/reassembly of furniture, and stair carries. Always ask for a detailed, itemized quote that lists all potential surcharges and a clear explanation of what is and is not included.

Packing Services FAQs

Yes, as part of our packing services, we provide all the necessary packing materials, including high-quality moving boxes of various sizes, packing paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, and stretch wrap. We use professional-grade supplies to ensure your items are securely protected for transit. You can also purchase these materials from us for your DIY packing needs.
The cost of professional packing services is typically calculated based on the time it takes to pack your belongings and the cost of the packing materials used. The total cost will depend on the size of your home, the volume of items, and the complexity of the packing required. We provide a clear, upfront estimate for packing services as a separate line item in your quote, so you’ll know the cost before we begin.
If you are doing the packing yourself, it is crucial to label your boxes clearly before the movers arrive. We recommend labeling each box with its contents and the destination room in your new home (e.g., “Kitchen – Pots & Pans”). This helps our movers place the boxes in the correct rooms, which makes your unpacking process much faster and more organized.
The best way to pack fragile items is to use a combination of sturdy boxes, packing paper, and bubble wrap. Wrap each item individually in packing paper, then add a layer of bubble wrap for cushioning. Place a generous layer of crumpled paper at the bottom and top of the box to act as a shock absorber. Be sure to label the box “FRAGILE” and stack it at the top of the pile during loading.
Yes, you can absolutely pack your own boxes. This is a great way to save on moving costs, and it allows you to handle your own personal and sensitive items. However, for your safety and the safety of your belongings, please ensure that all boxes are properly sealed with packing tape and are not overpacked. For fragile items, professional packing is highly recommended to ensure they are covered under your valuation plan.
Yes, in addition to packing, we offer professional unpacking services to help you settle into your new home. Our team can assist with unpacking boxes, placing items on shelves, and disposing of all packing materials. This service is designed to save you time and help you get back to your routine as quickly as possible.
The best way to wrap furniture for a move is to use moving blankets and plastic stretch wrap. Moving blankets provide a thick layer of padding to protect against scratches and dents, while stretch wrap holds the blankets securely in place and protects upholstery from dust and dirt. Our movers are trained to properly wrap and protect all types of furniture.
You should not pack any hazardous materials (e.g., flammable liquids, aerosols, or cleaning chemicals), perishable food, live plants, or ammunition. You also should not pack important documents, jewelry, medications, or other irreplaceable valuables in the moving boxes. These items should be kept with you during the move for security and easy access.
Professional movers pack fast through a combination of training, teamwork, and specialized techniques. They use a systematic approach, tackling one room at a time, and utilize the right tools and materials for each item. Their speed comes from years of experience and efficient processes, ensuring they can pack a home in a fraction of the time it would take an individual.
Yes, we understand the importance of sustainability and offer reusable moving boxes as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use cardboard boxes. We can also provide recycled packing paper and other environmentally conscious materials upon request. Please ask us about our green moving solutions when you book your service.

Storage Solutions FAQs

The cost of storage with a moving company depends on several factors, including the size of your storage unit, the duration of storage (short-term vs. long-term), and whether you need climate control. Prices can vary significantly based on your needs, so we recommend speaking with a storage specialist to get a customized quote based on the volume of your belongings.
Yes, our facilities offer a variety of storage options, including climate-controlled units. These units are maintained at a consistent temperature and humidity level to protect sensitive items like wood furniture, electronics, documents, antiques, and artwork from damage due to extreme temperatures. We also offer standard units for items that are less sensitive to environmental changes.
Our storage facilities are designed to be both secure and accessible. We offer flexible access hours during which you can visit your unit. For security reasons, we do not provide 24/7 access, but our extended hours are designed to be convenient for your schedule. Please contact us for specific access hours for our facilities.
For long-term furniture storage, the best way to protect your items is to use a climate-controlled unit. Before storing, clean and dry all pieces to prevent mold or mildew. Disassemble furniture when possible and wrap each piece in a moving blanket or plastic wrap to protect it from dust and scratches. This preparation, combined with a secure, climate-controlled environment, ensures your furniture stays in excellent condition.
Yes, our storage facilities are insured to protect against certain risks like fire or theft. However, this coverage is for the facility itself. For your stored belongings, we offer various valuation coverage options to protect your items from loss or damage while they are in our care. We can discuss these options with you to help you choose the right level of protection for your valuables.
Short-term storage is ideal for temporary needs, such as during a move, home renovation, or a gap between leases. It typically lasts from a few days to a few months. Long-term storage is for extended periods, from several months to a year or more. We offer flexible terms for both short-term and long-term use, so you only pay for the time you need.
Yes, we offer secure vehicle storage for cars, boats, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles. Our facilities provide both short-term and long-term storage options in a safe, monitored, and access-controlled environment. This is a perfect solution for seasonal storage, long trips, or freeing up space in your garage or driveway.
Choosing the right storage size depends on the total volume of your belongings. As a general rule, a 10×10 unit can hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, while a 10×20 unit can typically hold a 2-3 bedroom house. We offer a range of sizes, and our storage specialists can help you estimate the perfect size based on your inventory, ensuring you don’t pay for space you don’t need.
Yes, the safety of your items is our top priority. Our storage facilities are equipped with advanced security features, including 24/7 video surveillance, secure access controls, and fire protection systems. We take every precaution to ensure your belongings are protected from theft, damage, and unauthorized access.
If you need to access your stored items earlier than planned, simply contact us to schedule a pickup or delivery. Our flexible terms and convenient access hours allow you to retrieve your belongings on your schedule. We can also arrange for professional movers to deliver your items from the storage unit to your new location.

Specialty Moves FAQs

Moving a piano requires specialized expertise and equipment. Our trained movers use specialized piano dollies, piano boards, and heavy-duty straps to secure the instrument. We meticulously wrap the piano in thick moving blankets to protect its finish and ensure it is moved with a coordinated team to maintain balance. This careful process guarantees its safe transport without damage to the instrument or your home.
Moving antiques requires meticulous care and professional packing. Our experts will custom-wrap each antique using acid-free paper, bubble wrap, and cushioning foam. For highly valuable or fragile pieces, we recommend custom crating, where a wooden crate is built around the item for maximum protection during transit. This tailored approach safeguards your heirlooms from start to finish.
Yes, we specialize in moving heavy and oversized items, including gym equipment, large furniture, and bulky appliances. Our movers are trained to safely disassemble, wrap, and transport these items using the right tools and techniques. We ensure proper handling to prevent damage to the items and your property.
The best way to move a home office is to organize and label everything meticulously. Pack all papers, files, and small electronics into clearly labeled boxes. Keep all cords, cables, and small parts in a separate, labeled bag. Our movers can handle the disassembly of desks and office furniture, ensuring everything is securely wrapped and transported for an organized setup in your new space.
Relocating a business requires strategic planning to minimize downtime. Our commercial moving services focus on efficiency and coordination. We work with you to create a detailed moving plan, including an after-hours or weekend move schedule, to ensure your business operations can resume as quickly as possible. We handle all equipment, furniture, and files to make your transition seamless.
The safest way to transport artwork is with professional packing and custom crating. We use specialized packing materials like glassine paper and bubble wrap to protect the surface of paintings and sculptures. For valuable pieces, we recommend building a custom wooden crate designed specifically for your artwork’s dimensions, ensuring it is fully secured and protected from any movement during transit.
Yes, we are experienced in handling military relocations, also known as Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves. We understand the unique requirements and timelines involved in military moves and can provide assistance with everything from packing and inventory to transport and delivery, ensuring your relocation meets military standards with minimal disruption.
Yes, we have the expertise to handle sensitive medical equipment moves. We understand that this equipment is fragile and expensive, requiring specialized handling and careful transportation. Our team is trained to properly pack and secure medical devices to ensure they are transported safely and efficiently.
To prepare your appliances for a move, you need to disconnect them, clean them thoroughly, and secure any moving parts. For refrigerators and freezers, defrost and dry them at least 24 hours before the move. For washing machines, use appliance straps to secure the drum. Our movers will handle the secure wrapping and loading of your appliances, but the disconnecting and preparing is your responsibility.
Yes, we offer labor-only services where you can hire our professional team for just the loading and unloading. This is a popular option if you are using a rental truck or a portable container. Our movers will use their expertise to properly load your truck for safe transit and efficiently unload it upon arrival, saving you from the heavy lifting.

Pricing & Estimates FAQs

The cost to move a 3-bedroom house can vary significantly based on distance, the total volume of your belongings, and the services you need. For a local move, the cost is based on an hourly rate and typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000. For a long-distance move, the price can range from $3,500 to over $9,000. To get an accurate quote, we highly recommend a free on-site or virtual estimate, which allows us to assess your inventory and provide a precise price.
This depends on the type of move. Local moves are almost always charged by the hour, with a rate based on the number of movers and the size of the truck. Long-distance moves, which cross state lines, are regulated by federal law and are typically priced by the weight or cubic feet of your shipment along with the distance of the move.
The cheapest way to move locally is to handle the process yourself by renting a truck and enlisting friends or family to help. However, this method can be physically demanding and risky. A great alternative is to use our labor-only service, where you rent the truck, and we provide professional movers to handle the heavy lifting, saving you both money and back pain.

Several key factors affect the cost of your move:

  • Distance: The mileage between your old and new homes.

  • Volume/Weight: The total amount of belongings you are moving.

  • Services: Whether you need packing, unpacking, or storage.

  • Access: Challenges like stairs, elevators, or long walks from the truck.

  • Specialty Items: The presence of large or fragile items like pianos, safes, or artwork.

Moving estimates are based on industry standards and calculated to cover labor, fuel, and equipment. While you may have limited room to negotiate the base hourly or weight-based rate, you can often discuss ways to reduce the total cost. For example, you can save money by doing your own packing, disassembling furniture yourself, or moving during the off-season.
The average price for a long-distance move can range from $3,500 to $7,000, depending on the size of your home and the distance. This is a general estimate, and the final price will be based on a detailed inventory of your items. For a firm quote, please contact us for a binding estimate.
For local moves, fees are calculated by multiplying the hourly rate by the number of hours worked. For long-distance moves, fees are calculated based on the weight or volume of your shipment and the mileage, along with any additional services or access fees. All our estimates are transparent and itemized, so you know exactly what you are paying for.
Yes, a virtual moving estimate can be very accurate. Our moving coordinator will guide you through a video call to assess your home’s contents and provide a detailed inventory. As long as you show us everything you plan to move, the estimate will be a reliable and convenient way to get a quote without a home visit.
We offer both binding and non-binding quotes. A binding quote provides a guaranteed price for your move based on a detailed inventory, as long as no items are added or removed. A non-binding quote is an estimate of the cost, and the final price may be higher or lower depending on the actual weight and services used on moving day. We recommend a binding quote for peace of mind.
A reputable moving company will not have hidden fees. However, some companies may add surcharges for services not included in the original quote. Common surcharges can include fees for long carries, stair carries, shuttle services (for difficult access), or disassembly/reassembly of furniture. We pride ourselves on transparent pricing and will list all potential fees in your written estimate.

Moving Day FAQs

On the morning of your move, our crew lead will call you to confirm their estimated arrival time. We always provide a scheduled arrival window, typically a 1 to 2-hour timeframe, to ensure you are prepared for their arrival.
If our crew is running behind schedule, we will always contact you as soon as possible to provide an updated estimated time of arrival. We understand your time is valuable, and we strive to be punctual. If you have any concerns, please feel free to call our office directly for a real-time update.
For safety and liability reasons, customers are not permitted to ride in the moving truck. Our trucks are designated for transporting household goods, not passengers. Please arrange for separate transportation to your new home.
Yes, it is essential that you or a designated representative is present throughout the move. You will need to be there at the beginning to answer questions and guide the movers, and at the end to perform a final walkthrough and confirm all items have been delivered to the correct rooms.
Our professional crews are equipped to handle moves in most weather conditions. We use protective floor runners, moving blankets, and plastic wrap to safeguard your belongings and your home from rain, snow, and dirt. We will continue the move unless the weather creates unsafe working conditions.
Yes, our moving services include the use of all necessary equipment to protect your belongings. Our crews will arrive with a full supply of moving blankets, furniture pads, and straps to ensure your furniture and other items are protected from scratches and scuffs during transit.
Yes, you can change your move date, but it is subject to availability. We recommend giving us as much advance notice as possible to avoid cancellation fees and to ensure we can secure a new date that works for you. Please contact your moving coordinator to discuss rescheduling options.
We take great care to protect both your old and new homes. Our movers use floor runners to protect carpets and hardwood floors, padded covers for railings, and corner protectors for walls and doorways to prevent any scuffs or scratches while moving items.
In the rare event that an item is lost or damaged, please notify the crew lead and note it on the inventory sheet before signing. You should then contact our claims department as soon as possible. We will guide you through the claims process based on the valuation coverage you selected.
Yes, our moving team will help reassemble basic furniture that they disassembled at the origin, such as beds and dining tables. If you have complex furniture that requires specialized tools, please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.