Justine is moving to another city for a new job opportunity.
She has a hectic schedule and doesn’t have much time (or energy) for planning and packing — so she definitely doesn’t want to DIY. Justine has been researching full service moving companies near me but isn’t sure whether it’s the right choice for her situation. How much does a full service move cost? Would saving time, stress, and energy be worth the higher price tag?
Maybe you’re like Justine: weighing the pros and cons of a full service mover vs. hiring a local mover. No two moves are the same, and the right choice depends on your unique situation. In this article, we’ll break down the costs, explore what happens behind the scenes of a full service move, and talk about when choosing a full service moving company could be the best choice for you.
What Is a Full Service Move?
To start off, what is a full service move?
A full service move is a moving option in which every part of your relocation is taken care of by a professional full service mover. We pack your belongings, load them on our truck, transport the items to your new location, unload, unpack, and can even set up in your new home. This end-to-end service gives you a seamless, hassle-free experience, so you don’t have to worry about any of the moving or packing details.
How Much Does a Full Service Move Cost?
Sounds great, right? Many people don’t enjoy the packing, loading, and stress that come with moving. But before you look for full service moving companies near me, you need to know: How much does this kind of thing cost?
Cost is a major factor in many people’s moving decisions, whether that’s a DIY move, hiring a traditional mover, or a full service moving company. Full service moving costs can vary widely based on a number of key factors. Here are some of the things that influence the cost:
- Distance: A local full service move typically ranges from $1,000 to $6,000. A long distance full service move ranges from $3,000 to $20,000 (and up).
- Volume and Weight: As with any move, the amount of belongings and heavy furniture can increase labor and fuel costs.
- Additional Services: Packing, storage, and unpacking are additional features that add value — and cost — to the move.
The price of a full service mover doesn’t just reflect the cost of the truck and movers but also insurance, fuel, labor, intellectual properties, and the coordination behind the scenes.
Our team methodically plans logistics, ensures proper handling of items, coordinates scheduling, and expertly tackles any unexpected challenges — so that you don’t have to worry about anything or lift a finger!
The behind-the-scenes organization and coordination allows us to deliver seamless moving experiences for our clients.
We understand that a full service move is a significant investment. That’s why we’re ultra transparent about what’s included in the move and the reasons behind the costs.
So how much does a full service move cost? Where can I find full service moving companies near me? Here are some next steps to get the info you need:
- Get quotes from different full service movers.
- Check your potential moving partner’s online reviews and local reputation. Always be cautious of moving brokers! These companies outsource your move to third parties and can’t guarantee quality service.
- List all services you might need, from packing materials to storage options, and ask your mover about helpful services you might not have considered!
By understanding these cost drivers, you can get a better idea of whether a full service mover brings the value you need to your move.
What’s Included in the Cost of a Full Service Move?
If you’ve relocated before, you know that moving is more than just transporting items from point A to point B. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes! Planning routes, coordinating schedules, safely packing and loading, and navigating challenges — a full service moving company handles it all for you. For many people, these costs are worth the savings in time, stress, and mental and physical energy.
Here are some of the factors covered by a full service mover:
- Planning and Logistics: Every move starts with detailed planning. A full service moving company coordinates dates, routes, and schedules to make sure your move is streamlined and efficient. And every move has a dedicated move coordinator who always keeps you informed and in the loop.
- Insurance and Safety: Reputable movers (like Central) have the liability and valuation coverage to make sure your belongings are protected. Our professional moving teams have the training to safely handle fragile, specialized, and large items.
- Expert Team Coordination: Looking for full service moving companies near me? Skilled packers, experienced drivers, and a whole team of professionals work together to handle the challenges that come with any move.
- Unexpected Challenges: Whether it’s handling unexpected traffic or a last-minute change in weather, the team is always ready and able to adapt their plan.
As you’re getting information from your potential mover:
- How much does a full service move cost? Get your quote in writing. Be wary of any mover who won’t provide a written quote!
- Understand your coverage options, the company’s terms and conditions, and what’s NOT covered.
- Make sure you’re working with an agent of a trusted van line (like United). This connects you with a nationwide network known for reliable, quality service.
Knowing what goes into your move can help you appreciate every step and understand the true value behind the cost.
Why Choose a (Human) Full Service Mover Instead of Using AI Planning Tools?
In today’s world, the choice isn’t just between a full service moving company and a local mover — there are also AI (artificial intelligence) planning tools! AI can create workout schedules, a vacation itinerary, and meal plans, so it’s fair to ask, “Why not just use Grok or ChatGPT to plan my move instead of looking for full service moving companies near me?”
There’s no denying that technology can be very helpful in planning. But it’s important to remember: AI can’t replicate personalized care and expert insight of actual people.
Here’s why having humans involved matters:
- Personalized Expertise: Experienced professionals anticipate and address challenges that may arise.
- Comprehensive Support: From packing to unpacking, full service moving covers every facet, reducing your stress and involvement.
- Peace of Mind: The extra cost reflects the assurance that every detail is handled with care and precision.
- Less Stress With a Tight Schedule: When you’re short on time, a full service mover can take ALL the stress (planning, packing, loading, and unpacking) off of your shoulders.
How Do I Know if Full Service or a Less Specialized Mover Is Right for Me?
Every move is different, so it can be hard to decide whether full service or a less specialized mover is right for your situation.
Here are some questions to consider:
- Do you have limited time or capacity to manage your move?
- Would having a team of pros to coordinate logistics be of value to you?
- Do you have high-value or fragile items that need extra care?
- Are you looking for a streamlined transition into your new home?
A full service mover is ideal if you’re looking for a worry-free experience and want the comfort of knowing every logistical detail has been taken care of.
If your answer is “yes” to any of the questions above, a full service moving company might be right for you. To be sure, here are some steps you can take:
- Create a checklist of your specific needs.
- Determine your budget, keeping costs like moving supplies, time, and stress in mind.
- Search “full service moving companies near me,” check reviews, and get estimates from multiple reputable companies.
From DIY to full service, we’re here to help you have the best move possible!
Full Service Moves = A Hassle-Free Moving Experience
We hope this article has been helpful in understanding full service moves! Evaluating the true cost of full service moving (and what happens behind the scenes!) can help you make the best decision for your unique situation. When you partner with a full service moving company like Central, you can expect professionalism, safe handling and transportation of your belongings, and personalized care. Here’s to a seamless move that’s as low stress as possible!
