Most people will move at least one time in their lives. Just over 35 million people in the United States move annually and pretty much everyone can agree that it’s a huge time commitment and drain on energy and resources. Studies have shown that the stress associated with moving is one of the biggest life event stressors out there. However, take heart! There are ways to make it a much less painful experience and ensure that everything gets done. The answer to all your moving quandaries is to hire professional movers. Yes, it’s more expensive than doing it yourself. But professional movers and moving companies are equipped to do the heavy lifting (both literal and metaphorical), leaving you with the time and head space to handle other moving logistics, like setting up utilities or thinking about redecorating.
Table of Contents
The Moving Game
The places people move in and out of are not created equal. For example, New York, Illinois, and New Jersey have almost 65% of people moving in from other states, whereas South Dakota has the highest percentage of people leaving the state (almost 70% of movers). Either way, moving is a profitable business, with over $12.5 million being brought in every year and over 185,000 jobs created thanks to the industry.
Moving interstate is usually more expensive than an intrastate move (over $4,000 versus over $2,000) because the mileage and coordination are often much greater. If you’re considering an interstate move, again, a moving service can be an excellent way to streamline things, give you peace of mind, and ensure your belongings end up safe and sound where they’re supposed to.
What are the Benefits of Hiring Professional Movers?
- Reduce Your Stress Levels
Movers can handle a lot of the logistics — from driving on busy roads to lifting heavy or bulky items to inventorying all your possessions to make sure that they all arrive — that you would ordinarily have to do yourself. They help expedite the process, while also making it much simpler for you. And when it comes to moving, simple is the name of the game.
- Safety
Moving basically requires people to do heavy lifting. Professional movers are trained — and are experts — in how to lift in a way that won’t hurt them. Most of us do not have that training and run the risk of at worst, throwing something out, or at best, being pretty sore the next day. Hiring professional movers bypasses the aches and pains. It also ensures that your items make it to your new home safely. They’ll come equipped with the right materials to safely transport your possessions and reduce the risk of damage.
- Reliability
Professional movers are going to show up when they say they are and get the job done. Relying on friends and family is nice, but things can happen. It’s awful to be stuck mid-move without the promised help. A moving company is accountable and reliable, so you don’t have to worry about where the help is coming from.
Where Do I Find Reliable Professional Movers?
Asking friends and family for any recommendations for moving services is always a good first place to start. Personal recommendations are usually one of the best ways to source products and services and this is no exception.
However, in case you’re turning up empty, try these tips:
- Go for a local mover — one you can meet in person.
- Shop around. Make sure you get some quotes from a few different companies to compare and contrast. And make sure you get quotes!
- Make sure they are who they say they are. Talk to the company, of course, but also check any reviews or testimonials from past customers to see how their experience was. Much of this is — or should be — available online.
- Go with your gut. If something seems fishy, it probably is. If they want a huge deposit upfront, for example, start asking more questions.
Cut out the hassle of moving with a professional moving company. You won’t regret it.
