The right moving company can help you move to a new home, apartment or office. They can offer local or long-distance moves, and may also provide storage services. When choosing a moving company, make sure they are licensed and insured. You should also find out whether they have a reputation for good customer service and are involved in the community.

Full-service movers pack and unpack your belongings for you. They will provide boxes, bubble wrap, and furniture blankets to protect your items. They will also load them into a truck and transport them to your new address. They will unload them into your new home and reassemble any furniture. Depending on the amount of items you have, this can be a time-consuming process.

Moving companies charge their services based on the weight of your shipment and the distance between locations. They may also have extra charges for specialty services, such as packing materials. It is a good idea to interview several moving companies before you decide which one to hire. When you have narrowed down the list of potential companies, ask for a quote. This will give you a general idea of what the cost will be for your move.

Local movers charge by the hour, while long-distance movers calculate their fees based on weight and distance. They also have additional charges for specialty services, such as heavy lifting and disassembly or assembly of furniture. Some companies have flat rates for moves, while others will provide a free estimate.

You should ask potential movers what type of insurance they carry and how much it will cost you to add on. In addition, ask for a written contract and read it carefully before signing. Make sure the contract spells out all costs and services, including any hidden charges.

Some movers have their own warehouses, while others work with partner warehouses to handle storage-in-transit (SIT). SIT is temporary storage until your new home is ready for you to move in. It is important to ask if your moving company offers this option, because it can save you money and hassle if your new house isn’t ready on the day of your move.

Many moving companies are able to handle special items, such as antiques and artwork. However, you should let them know if you have any specialty items that need special care during transit. Some companies can even refer you to specialist movers who can take care of these items.

A reputable moving company will have excellent customer service and be willing to answer your questions. They will also be active in the community and support local events. They may even sponsor charitable causes. Getting involved in the community is a great way to build a good reputation and attract more customers. In addition, a reputable moving company will provide you with testimonials from satisfied customers. These testimonials can be used on your website or social media page to attract potential clients.