What Is a Mover?

A mover is a company that transports household items from one place to another. These companies offer a variety of services, including packing, loading, unloading, and storage. They may also help you unpack and set up furniture in your new home. Most movers have extensive training in handling various types of materials and can offer specialized services for high-value or delicate items. They also know how to safely maneuver large pieces down a flight of stairs or through narrow doorways.

The price of a move will depend on how much stuff you have and the distance between your old and new homes. The longer the drive, the more expensive it will be. This is because long-distance moves require more fuel and take more time to complete than local moves. You should always shop around before settling on a mover. Be sure to compare prices and services, and make sure you understand what’s included in the quoted price. Some movers will charge extra for certain services, such as packing or disassembling and reassembling furniture.

If you’re unsure which movers to choose, consider reading online reviews. Look for a company with a good reputation and plenty of positive feedback. Also, check that the movers you’re considering are licensed and insured. Local movers should have state-level licensing, while interstate movers should have U.S. Department of Transportation and Motor Carrier Operating Authority (MC) numbers.

Besides transporting your belongings, a moving company can provide cleaning services, storage, and even pet relocation. They can also ship your car if you’re moving across the country or overseas. Some movers have fleets of vehicles that can accommodate any size move, from cargo vans to 27-foot trucks. In addition, they can help you arrange for a vehicle rental if necessary.

You can choose from full-service movers or hourly movers. A full-service move includes packing and loading, unloading and unpacking, and arranging for insurance coverage. Some movers offer free, no-obligation estimates, while others charge a flat fee based on the number of hours of service required.

A professional moving company should be able to give you an accurate estimate of the costs for your move, but you should also prepare your own list of items and boxes. Having an inventory of your items will help the movers assess their condition and determine how many people are needed to complete the job. It’s also important to have a backup plan for your items in case they are lost or damaged during transit.

If you’re not happy with the services provided by your movers, try to resolve the problem quickly before it escalates into a bigger issue. If your movers don’t respond to your concerns, contact the Better Business Bureau or your state’s consumer protection agency. In some states, you can file a complaint with the attorney general’s office to protect yourself from fraudulent businesses. You can also find a mover with an excellent track record through an online review website like Yelp.