Full-Service Moving Company: Key Takeaways
- Full-service movers pack, disassemble, protect, transport, unload, and reassemble your belongings when you’re relocating
- A full-service moving company manages every step of your relocation, saving you time, stress, and physical effort
- Self-service movers cost less but require you to handle packing, heavy lifting, and logistics, while full-service movers charge more but take care of every step
- It’s worth hiring a full-service company if you’re facing time constraints, moving long-distance, relocating fragile or complex items, or managing a move in a challenging location like NYC
- Choose a company, which is licensed and insured and provides clear estimates of your move
You’ve finally found your new place, but the most difficult part is still ahead. Will you be able to pack every drawer and move your couch down your five-story walkup?
There’s a solution: a full-service company.
This guide will break down:
- What full-service movers do
- What’s the difference between full-service and self-service movers
- Is it worth hiring a full-service company
- How to choose the right one
Not sure where to start your relocation journey? Imperial Movers can help
What Does a Full-Service Moving Company Do?
A full-service moving company handles each step of your relocation process, from start to finish, so you don’t have to lift a finger.
Standard services include:
Packing
Professional movers bring high-quality boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape. They carefully pack your items, sorting them by weight and fragility and labeling each box by room.
For instance, they may pack your books in smaller boxes to avoid heavy loads, while using custom inserts for your glassware.
Furniture Disassembly
Movers dismantle large pieces like dining tables, modular sofas, and desks. The goal is to make them fit through doorways or into elevators.
For example, if you’re taking your king-size platform bed to the new location, they’ll detach the frame, slats, and headboard sections. Then, they’ll put all screws in a labeled bag and tape it to one of the sections, making reassembly faster.
Handling Fragile or Valuable Items
Specialty items get extra attention. Movers use custom crates, padded wraps, and climate-sensitive packaging to protect your items.
For example, if you need to move a grand piano, they’ll wrap it with quilted pads and will use a skid board to prevent stress on its legs and frame.
Secure Transportation
Licensed and insured trucks with tie-down rails and padding ensure safe transit. For long hauls in different climates, movers can also use climate-controlled vehicles.
Unloading and Furniture Reassembly
Once they arrive at your new address, movers unload your items and place boxes in designated rooms according to your labeling or instructions.
Furniture is reassembled on-site, allowing you to settle in quickly.
Self-Service Movers vs. Full-Service Movers: Pros and Cons
Of course, when it comes to moving, you can always rent a truck and call in a few friends to help with loading and unloading.
However, most people typically choose to use:
- Self-service movers
- Full-service movers
Self-Service Movers
Self-service movers drive your shipment to the new location, but you’re in charge of everything else, whether packing your pictures and TV or unloading your piano.
Pros:
- You don’t have to drive a big vehicle.
- More affordable than full-service.
Cons:
- You need to handle packing, furniture disassembly, loading and unloading.
- Managing building access and Certificates of Insurance (COIs) is your responsibility.
Full-Service Movers
With a full-service moving company, your responsibility is minimal as the crew takes care of the entire process.
Pros:
- Saves time and reduces stress.
- Uses specialized equipment like dollies and straps to move your items.
- Has insurance, meaning your items are covered against damage.
Cons:
- Higher costs.
- Requires booking in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Hiring a full-service company is more costly than DIY and self-service moves but offers better organization
Is a Full-Service Moving Company Worth It?
Hiring a full-service company for your move depends on various factors like distance, timing, or moving items that require special care.
It’s a smart choice if:
- You’re moving long-distance or internationally.
- You need help with furniture disassembly and reassembly.
- You have a tight schedule and cannot take time off work.
- You must move fragile, high-value, or specialty items.
- You’re moving to/from NYC that poses various challenges.
- You’re not sure if you can organize a move on your own.
- You want peace of mind.
- You’re coordinating your move remotely.
Hiring a full-service moving company can be a great solution for long-distance and international moves
How to Choose the Right Full-Service Moving Company
There are 17,000 businesses in the U.S. providing moving services. Making the right choice can be overwhelming.
To protect your money and ensure a smooth experience:
Verify Licensing and Insurance
Check if the company has:
- Registration with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) if you’re moving between states.
- License by your state’s moving authority for local relocations.
- Insurance, including general liability and cargo protection.
Ask for a Written Estimate
- Request a detailed quote in writing.
- Check if it includes cost breakdown by service, for example, packing and disassembly.
- Verify if the price covers fuel charges, labor, and packing materials.
Ask About Specialty Item Experience
If you’re planning to move a baby grand piano or heavy gym equipment, confirm the company has prior experience in this area by asking questions. For example:
- Have you moved a 55-gallon fish tank before?
- Do you provide custom crating for flat-screen TVs?
Check Reviews
- Pay attention to mentions of punctuality and damage handling.
- Read (sometimes between the lines) if customers would use them again.
- Check how the company responds to negative reviews.
Ask About Local Experience
If you’re moving to a major city like New York:
- Ask if they handle COIs.
- Confirm they know parking restrictions and regulations.
- Ask how they proceed in buildings without elevators.
Need a Full-Service Moving Agency? Call Imperial Movers
Imperial Movers is a trusted full-service company that has helped people, families, and businesses move to new locations.
Whether you’re planning to move to NYC from another borough or another country, our team will handle every step of your relocation with professionalism and care.
Pressed for time? Call Imperial Movers
Full-Service Moving Company: FAQs
Can full-service movers handle moves in cities like New York?
Yes, Imperial Movers has experience with NYC logistics. We manage COIs, building complexities, parking permits, and elevator coordination, helping you settle in the new place quickly and smoothly.
Do I need to be present during a full-service move?
While some companies would prefer having you by their side during the process, others allow remote coordination based on received instructions.
How far in advance should I book a full-service mover?
Experts recommend booking a full-service moving company at least four to eight weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons and holidays. Last-minute bookings may limit your options or increase the price of your move.
Worried about moving fragile or valuable items? Call Imperial Movers
