Guide to moving and storage services
Moving to a new place signifies a new chapter in one’s life. It involves considering several aspects, from furnishing the new house to vacating the old one and transporting possessions from one home to another. Moving companies help residents transport their belongings safely to their new homes, offering various services based on the types of goods to be moved. This article provides insight into the various storage and moving services.
Types of moving companies
A few types of moving companies are listed below:
- Long-distance moving companies
As the name suggests, long-distance moving companies deal with moving goods across cities or states within the country. Typically, long-distance movers charge their clients based on the weight of the luggage and the distance between the source and destination cities. Moving goods across long distances will likely cost anywhere from $4000 to $10,000. - Local moving companies
Local moving companies operate within city limits. Unlike long-distance moving companies, local movers usually charge their clients by the hour and may employ one or more professionals to transport the goods. Moreover, they may charge additional fees for travel time and fuel. - International moving companies
These movers deal exclusively with freight to be moved across the border. The expenses incurred with international moving are largely based on the moving freight volume, calculated in meters or cubic feet. Moving goods from one country to another usually costs up to $20,000 and involves several procedures, including customs and filling out insurance forms. Therefore, looking for international moving companies with expertise in such procedures is best, which can help with the end-to-end moving of one’s belongings. - Specialty moving companies
Specialty moving involves transporting specialty items that are fragile or precious and must be handled with the utmost care. Some such items include aquariums, artwork and antique pieces, souvenirs, musical instruments, and cars or bikes. - Full-moving service
A full-moving service, or white-glove service, is one in which the moving company takes over the entire moving process, from loading and packing at the source to unloading and unpacking at the destination. While full-service moving services are the most convenient options, particularly for long-distance moves, they are more expensive than any other professional moving services. - Commercial moving companies
These moving companies focus exclusively on moving goods from and to commercial or business spaces. Business moving companies typically comprise skilled staff adept at packing and transporting heavy goods, including technological equipment and other company assets. Some moving companies may provide commercial as well as residential moving services.
Types of storage solutions
A few types of storage solutions are listed below:
- Portable containers
Portable storage containers are effective and affordable solutions for moving one’s goods across long distances while relocating. Typically, these containers are sturdy and made of superior-quality material, ensuring the safe transportation of one’s freight. - Self-storage units
A self-storage unit is particularly a suitable choice if one wishes to pack and store their goods for a brief while before transporting them to a new place. It provides users with the flexibility to load and unload their goods at their convenience.
Choosing the right storage and moving company involves a few basic checks, such as evaluating the company’s background and expertise, checking out online reviews, and consulting family members and friends to gather word-of-mouth recommendations. It also helps to compare the prices quoted by different companies and shortlist the one that offers the best moving and storage solutions within one’s budget range.