Ready to move? Whether you’re switching apartments or relocating to a new city, moving can be a daunting task. That’s where moving and storage companies come in. These pros offer a whole range of services beyond just hauling your stuff from Point A to Point B. In this article, we’ll break down what moving and storage companies typically offer, from packing to storage and everything in between.
1. Comprehensive Moving Services
The main offering of any moving company is, of course, the move itself. But what does that entail?
Local Moves
This service is perfect for those switching homes within the same city or locality. It usually involves:
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Transportation of belongings
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Loading and unloading
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Basic assembly and disassembly of furniture
Long-Distance Moves
If you’re moving across the state or even cross-country, you’ll find that long-distance moving services are far more comprehensive. These often include:
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Detailed inventory of belongings
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Dedicated moving coordinators
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Custom crating for valuable items
International Moves
For those relocating overseas, moving companies offer international services that might include:
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Customs clearance assistance
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Comprehensive insurance options
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Specialized packing for international transport
2. Packing Services
One of the most time-consuming parts of moving is packing. Luckily, moving companies often offer packing services, which can be a lifesaver. Here’s what you might expect:
Full-Service Packing
When you opt for full-service packing, professionals will handle everything for you. This service typically includes:
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Providing all packing materials
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Carefully wrapping and boxing all items
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Labeling each box for easy unpacking
Partial Packing
If you prefer to pack some items yourself, you can choose partial packing services. Movers will handle the more cumbersome or fragile items while you take care of the rest. This often includes:
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Packaging fragile items like glassware and art
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Wrapping bulky furniture
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Packing up electronics securely
Unpacking Services
The thought of unpacking all those boxes might feel overwhelming after a long move. Many companies offer unpacking services to ease this burden. Professionals will:
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Unload and unpack your belongings
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Remove packing materials and boxes
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Set up kitchen and other essentials
When you think of packing services Delaware, residents often find these options incredibly convenient.
3. Specialized Moving Services
Sometimes, you have items that require special attention. Let’s go over some of these specialized services:
Piano Moving
Got a grand piano? Moving companies often have teams specifically trained to transport pianos safely. This service usually involves:
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Specialized equipment for lifting heavy items
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Protective padding
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Piano tuning services post-relocation
Antique and Fine Art Moving
High-value items like antiques and fine art need extra care. Moving companies skilled in handling such delicate items offer:
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Custom crating and packing
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Climate-controlled transport
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Insurance coverage
4. Storage Solutions
Not everything has to go straight to your new home. Sometimes, you need a place to store your belongings temporarily or even long-term. Moving companies usually offer:
Short-Term Storage
Perfect for those unpredictable moving schedules. Short-term storage typically includes:
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Climate-controlled units
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24/7 security surveillance
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Easy access to your items
Long-Term Storage
Are you planning to be away for a while? Long-term storage solutions provide peace of mind with features like:
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Durable containers that withstand the test of time
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Comprehensive insurance options
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Periodic inventory checks
Business and Interoffice Storage
Businesses also frequently need storage solutions, especially during office moves or renovations. Services often include:
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Secure storage for office furniture and documents
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Inventory management
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Easy retrieval options
If you’re interested in interoffice storage solutions, see here for more detailed information.
5. A Moving Estimate
One of the first steps in your moving journey is obtaining an estimate. Moving companies usually provide free quotes, often available through:
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Online forms
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Phone consultations
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On-site visits for a more accurate estimate
While online and phone estimates can give you a ballpark figure, on-site estimates are usually more precise. During an on-site visit, a professional can:
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Assess the amount and type of items to be moved
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Identify any challenges related to packing or transport
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Provide tips and advice on preparing for the move
6. Moving Day Coordination
Once you’ve selected among the various Delaware moving companies and scheduled your move, it’s all about coordination. Many companies offer a dedicated moving coordinator to help manage the process. This person will be your go-to for:
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Addressing questions and concerns
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Tracking progress on moving day
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Ensuring that everything stays on schedule
This hands-on approach makes the moving process smoother and less stressful for you.
7. Additional Services
Some moving companies offer extra services that can make your life easier before, during, and after the move.
Disassembly and Reassembly
Large furniture pieces often need to be disassembled for transport and then reassembled at the new location. Professional movers can handle this task, saving you time and frustration.
Cleaning Services
Moving can be messy. Some companies offer cleaning services for both your old and new home. This can include:
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General cleaning before loading or after unloading
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Deep cleaning services for a fresh start
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Trash removal and recycling
Pet Relocation
Your furry friends need special care during a move. Some companies offer pet relocation services that might include:
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Special travel crates
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Coordinated travel schedules to minimize stress
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Veterinarian services en route
Vehicle Transport
Do you have a car, motorcycle, or even a boat that needs moving? Companies often provide transport services for vehicles, including:
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Open and enclosed transport options
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Door-to-door service
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Tracking options to monitor your vehicle’s journey
By offering these additional services, moving companies ensure that every aspect of your move is covered—even the things you might not have considered.
8. Choosing a Moving Company
With so many options, how do you choose the right moving company for your needs? Here are some tips:
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Check reviews and ratings online
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Ask for recommendations from friends and family
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Get quotes from multiple companies for comparison
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Ensure that the company is licensed and insured
Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Knowing what to expect and confirming the services provided will help avoid any surprises on moving day.
Final Thoughts
Moving is a significant life event, and having professional help can make all the difference. From basic transportation to specialized packing and storage services, moving companies offer a wide array of options to suit every need. Whether you’re making a local move or embarking on a long-distance journey, understanding what these companies offer can help you plan a smooth and stress-free move.
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