Author: Kevin Katz

Categories
Moving Tips

How Can You Make Your Move More Eco-Friendly?

How Can You Make Your Move More Eco-Friendly

Making your move more eco-friendly means reducing waste and lowering your carbon footprint throughout the moving process. Simple choices like using recycled packing materials, donating or selling items you no longer need, and choosing a mover committed to sustainable practices can significantly cut down on environmental impact. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), moving generates a lot of waste each year, especially from boxes and packing supplies, so reusing materials and recycling properly can make a real difference. Green moving strategies not only help the planet, but they can also save you money and streamline your move.

Why Do Moves Create So Much Waste?

Moves create a surprising amount of waste in a short period of time. Between cardboard boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and items people throw away instead of moving, it adds up fast. The EPA reports that paper and cardboard are among the largest contributors to household waste in the U.S., which is especially relevant during moves when people often buy new supplies and throw them out immediately afterward. 

Beyond waste, moving also increases fuel consumption and emissions. Moving trucks are heavy, burn large amounts of fuel, and often idle for long periods during loading and unloading. According to the EPA, transportation accounts for 29% of total gas emissions, and even short local moves add to that total when repeated across millions of households each year.

On top of that, many people use a move as a reason to throw things away instead of donating or recycling them properly. Furniture, electronics, clothing, and household goods often end up on the curb or in dumpsters when they could have been reused.

The good news is that once you understand where the impact comes from, it becomes much easier to reduce it.

How Does Decluttering Before You Move Help the Environment?

One of the most effective ways to make your move more eco-friendly is to move less stuff. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, extending the life of consumer goods through reuse and donation significantly reduces waste and conserves the energy required to manufacture new products. 

Plus, the fewer items you transport, the fewer boxes, packing materials, and truck space you’ll need. On top of that, you’ll save money, too. Many quotes are directly affected by the amount of stuff you have, so the less you move, the more affordable it will be.

 

Decluttering Before Moving: Waste Reduction & Cost Savings (Estimated Data)

Number of Items Removed Estimated Boxes Eliminated Average Moving Cost Savings Weight Reduction (lbs) Landfill Waste Avoided
10 items 3–4 boxes $75–$150 150–250 lbs Low
25 items 7–10 boxes $200–$350 400–600 lbs Moderate
50 items 15–20 boxes $400–$700 900–1,200 lbs High
75 items 25–30 boxes $700–$1,100 1,500–1,900 lbs Very High
100+ items 35–45 boxes $1,200–$2,000+ 2,200–3,000 lbs Significant

 

Go through your belongings room by room, and be honest about what you actually use. Items in good condition can be donated, sold, or given away rather than thrown out. Organizations like Goodwill and local shelters accept furniture, clothing, and household goods, keeping usable items out of landfills. If you do end up selling your items, you can put whatever money you earn into your moving budget. It’s a win-win!

What Are the Most Eco-Friendly Packing Options?

Packing is where most moving waste is generated, but it’s also where you have the most control. Instead of buying brand-new boxes and plastic materials, start by reusing what already exists.

Cardboard boxes can often be sourced for free from friends, neighbors, grocery stores, liquor stores, or online marketplaces. Many communities also have box-exchange groups where people give away used moving supplies. When you do need to buy boxes, look for recycled cardboard options.

For cushioning, skip bubble wrap when possible. Towels, blankets, clothing, socks, and linens work just as well for protecting fragile items. Forbes has highlighted that reusable household textiles are an effective and waste-free alternative to single-use plastic packing materials.

When it comes to wrapping items, everyday household items work just as well as disposable materials. Towels, blankets, clothing, and linens can protect fragile items without creating extra waste. If you do use paper or plastic wrap, choose recyclable or biodegradable options and make a plan to recycle them after your move. Packing smarter doesn’t just reduce waste; it often makes unpacking easier, too.

How Can You Find Eco-Friendly Movers?

Not all moving companies operate the same way. Some movers actively work to reduce their environmental impact, while others do not. Choosing the right company can make a real difference. Eco-conscious moving companies may use fuel-efficient trucks, optimized routing to reduce mileage, reusable moving blankets instead of plastic wrap, and recycling programs for packing materials. Some even invest in carbon offset programs to balance emissions from transportation.

According to Forbes, companies that optimize logistics and reduce unnecessary trips can significantly lower fuel usage and operating emissions. When requesting quotes, ask movers directly about their sustainability practices. Do they reuse materials? Do they minimize truck trips? Are their trucks well-maintained for fuel efficiency? A reputable company should be able to answer clearly.

 

Professional Movers vs DIY Moving: Emissions & Efficiency Data

Moving Method Vehicles Used Average Miles Driven Fuel Consumed Estimated CO₂ Emissions Overall Efficiency
Professional Movers 1 truck 20–40 miles 5–8 gallons 100–160 lbs CO₂ High
DIY (Rental Truck) 1 truck + personal car 40–70 miles 8–12 gallons 160–240 lbs CO₂ Moderate
DIY (Multiple Trips) 2–3 vehicles 80–120 miles 15–25 gallons 300–500 lbs CO₂ Low
Professional Movers (Optimized Route) 1 fuel-efficient truck 15–30 miles 4–6 gallons 80–120 lbs CO₂ Very High

 

Choosing a mover that aligns with eco-friendly values supports better industry practices overall. The more organized your move is, the less time and fuel it takes. That means having everything packed before movers arrive, labeling boxes clearly, and ensuring easy access to your home. Multiple trips dramatically increase emissions. By consolidating items and planning your move carefully, you reduce the need for return trips or additional vehicles. This is especially important for local moves, which may seem small but add up quickly across thousands of households.

Reducing vehicle idling and unnecessary mileage is one of the simplest ways to lower transportation emissions. If possible, avoid peak traffic times and choose off-peak move date. Less congestion means less idling, less fuel burned, and a smoother move overall.

What Should You Do With Packing Materials After Your Move?

An eco-friendly move doesn’t stop once the boxes are unpacked; what you do after matters just as much. Break down cardboard boxes and recycle them properly, or pass them along to someone else who’s moving. Many local recycling programs accept cardboard, but it’s always worth checking your municipality’s guidelines.

Plastic wrap, bubble wrap, and foam should be recycled where facilities exist, or reused for storage if possible. The EPA emphasizes that proper recycling keeps valuable materials out of landfills and reduces demand for new raw materials. You can also donate leftover supplies to schools, community centers, or local moving groups. The goal is to keep materials in circulation instead of treating them as disposable.

Is An Eco-Friendly Move Harder Than a Normal One?

Making your move more eco-friendly doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul. It comes down to being intentional. Declutter before you pack, reuse materials when possible, choose efficient movers, and plan your move to minimize waste and fuel use. These small decisions add up quickly.

An eco-friendly move is better for the planet, often easier on your wallet, and usually less stressful overall. With a little planning and the right mindset, you can move responsibly without sacrificing convenience.

FAQ

What is the most eco-friendly way to move?

The most eco-friendly move involves decluttering beforehand, reusing packing materials, minimizing trips, and hiring a fuel-efficient moving company.

Are professional movers more eco-friendly than DIY moves?

Often, yes. Professional movers usually use fewer vehicles and optimize routes, which can reduce emissions compared to multiple DIY trips.

Can reusable bins replace cardboard boxes?

Yes. Plastic moving bins can be reused dozens of times and significantly reduce cardboard waste.

What should I do with boxes after I move?

Recycle them, donate them, or offer them for free to others who are moving.

Does decluttering really reduce environmental impact?

Yes. Less weight means less fuel used, and donating items keeps them out of landfills.

Are biodegradable packing materials effective?

They are a better alternative to plastic and work well for most household items.

Categories
Move Planning

How Do I Prepare for a Move? Step-by-Step Guide

How Do I Prepare for a Move Step-by-Step Guide

Moving is one of life’s most stressful transitions, but careful preparation can make it manageable. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average American will move 11.7 times in their lifetime. This guide provides a comprehensive plan for preparing your move, including checklists, packing strategies, budgeting, and settling in.

Do I Need to Create a Moving Checklist?

A moving checklist is more than a simple to-do list. It’s your roadmap for a successful transition. A checklist allows you to break up your move into smaller, more manageable tasks, which, according to the American Psychological Association, can help reduce stress levels. Need more of a reason? According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), checklists can also help prevent missing deadlines so you can avoid costly mistakes.

 

Week % of Tasks Completed Tasks Responsible Person(s)
8 Weeks Before 5% • Research new housing and neighborhood amenities
• Start decluttering rooms
• Create a moving binder or digital organizer		 Self / Family Members
7 Weeks Before 10% • Inventory belongings
• Decide on items to sell, donate, or discard
• Research moving companies and request quotes		 Self / Partner / Roommates
6 Weeks Before 15% • Gather packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap)
• Begin packing non-essential items
• Book professional movers or a rental truck		 Self / Family Members
5 Weeks Before 25% • Continue decluttering and packing
• Notify landlord (if renting) or begin selling old property items
• Plan logistics for pets or children		 Self / Family Members
4 Weeks Before 40% • Notify utilities and schedule shut-offs at old home
• Set up utilities at new home
• Confirm moving company booking and insurance		 Self / Partner
3 Weeks Before 55% • Pack the majority of items except daily essentials
• Organize important documents for transfer
• Prepare change of address notifications		 Self / Family Members
2 Weeks Before 70% • Pack valuables and fragile items carefully
• Arrange temporary storage if needed
• Confirm travel plans and accommodations for long-distance moves		 Self / Family Members
1 Week Before 90% • Deep clean old home
• Gather essentials bag (clothes, toiletries, chargers, documents)
• Label all boxes clearly with room and contents		 Self / Partner / Kids (if applicable)
Moving Day 100% • Supervise loading of items
• Conduct final walkthrough of old home
• Ensure your valuables and essentials bag are with you
• Lock doors, turn off lights, and leave keys as required		 Self / Movers / Family Members

 

When creating your checklist, you should structure it by week and include the tasks you need to complete. For example:

  • 8 weeks before moving – research housing, neighborhood amenities, start decluttering
  • 6 weeks before moving – gather packing supplies and start packing non-essentials, research professional moving companies
  • 4 weeks before moving – notify utilities and file a change of address with the USPS, hire a moving company
  • 2 weeks before moving – pack the majority of your items, confirm logistics, and plan pet/child care
  • 1 week before moving – deep clean, gather all your important documents, finalize essentials
  • Moving day – walk through your old house, supervise loading, and make sure to have your essentials bag handy

Keep your checklist visible to track progress and deadlines. If you are moving with roommates or family members, assign each person responsibilities. Update the checklist daily to maintain momentum.

How Do I Budget for My Move?

According to the Census Bureau, around 31 million Americans move annually. Moving costs vary, but you should expect to put aside at least $1,000 for a local move and around $4,000 for a long-distance move. Of course, the costs depend on distance, how much you’re moving, and any additional services you want to include. When budgeting for your move, make sure to include the following in your costs:

  • Major expenses – hiring professional movers or renting a truck, packing supplies, deposits, fuel, and lodging if you are making a long-distance move
  • Additional services – packing and unpacking, storage, and plastic bin rentals
  • Hidden moving fees – stairs, long-carry, material charges, travel fees, tolls, parking, moving crew tips
  • Additional moving costs – meals, childcare, pet care, cleaning, and utility setup fees

 

# Expense Category % of Total Budget Estimated Cost (Local Move $1,000) Estimated Cost (Long-Distance Move $4,000) Notes / Tips
1 Professional Movers / Truck Rental 50% $500 $2,000 Hiring movers saves time and reduces physical strain; DIY moves are cheaper but require labor.
2 Packing Supplies 10% $100 $400 Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, and protective materials.
3 Travel / Fuel / Lodging 15% $150 $600 Include gas, tolls, and overnight stays for long-distance moves.
4 Deposits / Utilities Setup 10% $100 $400 Utility activation, security deposits, rental deposits.
5 Additional Services 5% $50 $200 Packing/unpacking, storage, plastic bin rentals.
6 Hidden Fees 5% $50 $200 Fees for stairs, long carry, materials, parking, or crew tips.
7 Miscellaneous 5% $50 $200 Meals, childcare, pet care, cleaning, unexpected expenses.
Total 100% $1,000 $4,000 Include an extra 10% emergency fund

 

Set aside an extra 10% of your total budget as an emergency fund. Track spending with a spreadsheet or budgeting app like You Need a Budget to stay on track. Budgeting early prevents surprises and helps identify areas to reduce costs.

Why Should I Declutter Before Moving?

Decluttering makes packing and unpacking faster and has other benefits:

  • Saving money: fewer items reduce moving costs, and you can earn money by selling excess belongings
  • Less stress: the Mayo Clinic links clutter to higher stress and anxiety
  • Supporting sustainability: donate usable items to charities and recycle responsibly

Steps to declutter efficiently:

  • Go through each room and sort items into keep, donate/sell, or recycle/throw out
  • Apply the one-year rule: discard items you haven’t used in over a year
  • For small items, make a quick decision (within three seconds) on which pile they belong to

Decluttering helps reduce costs, speeds up packing/unpacking, and makes your move less overwhelming.

What Are Some Packing Best Practices?

Packing is the most time-consuming task in moving, but being strategic protects your belongings and simplifies unpacking.

Packing tips:

  • Create an inventory of all items: note quantity and pre-existing damage, take photos of fragile items, and indicate the destination room
  • Photograph electronics setups: keep cords and parts together in a box
  • Label every box with contents and the destination room
  • Pack an essentials box with toiletries, medications, chargers, important documents, and a few days’ clothing
  • Protect fragile items with bubble wrap, towels, packing paper, or packing peanuts, leaving air gaps for cushioning
  • Avoid overloading boxes: keep under 50 pounds
  • Use color-coding for rooms to make unpacking faster

Proper packing reduces loss or damage during transit.

Which Documents Should I Transfer or Update?

Administrative tasks are crucial for a smooth relocation, and that means handling things like your utilities, medical records, school records, and so on beforehand. You don’t want any complications after your move, after all. Some common things to update include:

  • Utilities: schedule shut-off at old home and activation at new home (electric, gas, water, internet)
  • Mail forwarding: file a change of address with USPS
  • Government records: update driver’s license, voter registration, and vehicle registration
  • Financial institutions: notify banks, lenders, and insurance providers
  • School records: obtain transcripts, vaccination records, and enrollment documents
  • Medical information: Request copies from providers for continuity of care

 

 

# Document Type Specific Documents Deadline Responsible Person Completed?
1 Identification Driver’s license, passport, Social Security card 2 weeks before Self ☐
2 Financial Bank notifications, credit/debit card updates, insurance policies 2–4 weeks before Self / Partner ☐
3 Utilities & Services Electricity, gas, water, internet, cable setup/shutdown confirmations 4 weeks before Self ☐
4 Postal & Address USPS change of address form, subscription updates 3–4 weeks before Self ☐
5 Medical Doctor and dentist records, vaccination history, prescriptions 2–3 weeks before Self / Family ☐
6 School & Education Transcripts, enrollment forms, vaccination records 3–4 weeks before Parent / Guardian ☐
7 Legal & Property Lease agreement, property deeds, and car registration 2–4 weeks before Self ☐
8 Moving Documents Moving contract, inventory checklist, and insurance paperwork 1–2 weeks before Self / Movers ☐

 

Keep legal documents such as passports, birth certificates, property records, and Social Security cards in a secure folder on your person; do not pack them in boxes.

What Should I Do On Moving Day?

Finally, it’s the day of the move, but you’re not done with your preparations yet! Moving day can be chaotic, so it’s important to stay organized and focused. There are a few things you should do to make sure your moving day goes smoothly:

  • Pack a day-of kit – include things like snacks, water, medications, chargers, cleaning supplies, and a first aid kit
  • Final walkthrough – check closets, drawers, and storage to make sure nothing is left behind
  • Protect valuables – carry jewelry, cash, and important documents with you
  • Home security – lock doors and windows and turn off the lights

Always keep your essentials handy and plan for potential delays and emergencies.

How Do I Settle Into My New House Quickly?

Once all of your boxes are in place, you might be tempted to relax, and that’s okay. Give yourself several minutes to decompress, but it’s important to remember that the transition isn’t over. Intentional settling can help reduce your stress and establish routines. For a smooth relocation, make sure to do the following:

  • Unpack essentials – start with the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms
  • Check safety features – test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and locate the circuit breakers
  • Meet the neighbours – build community ties for safety and support
  • Create routines – establish daily habits to reduce stress. This is especially important if you have kids and/or pets

Setting in methodically will ensure your new place feels like home faster and reduce the time you take to unpack.

Are You Ready to Move?

Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By planning early, budgeting carefully, decluttering, packing strategically, managing administrative tasks, and settling intentionally, you can reduce stress, save money, and make your move smoother. 

 

FAQ

How far in advance should I start planning my move?

Most experts recommend starting 6–8 weeks before moving day for local moves and 8–12 weeks for long-distance or interstate moves.

What are the common mistakes people make when moving?

Underestimating costs, failing to declutter, not labeling boxes, forgetting to update addresses, and leaving important documents behind.

How can I make moving with pets easier?

Keep food, water, and familiar items handy. Introduce carriers ahead of time and follow transport regulations for long-distance moves.

Should I hire professional movers or do it myself?

Professional movers save time and reduce physical strain, while DIY moves may be cheaper but require more planning and labor.

What’s the best way to pack an essentials box for the first night?

Include toiletries, medications, phone chargers, a few days’ clothing, bedding, snacks, and any important documents.

How do I handle moving during extreme weather?

Plan for delays, protect furniture, clear walkways, and secure boxes with waterproof covers if needed.

Categories
Storage

4 Reasons You Should Consider a Storage Solution for Your Next Move

4 Reasons You Should Consider a Storage Solution for Your Next Move

Regardless of the size of your house, if you have lived there for several years you have accumulated a lot of stuff. Most people don’t realize how much they have until they need to move, that’s why downsizing is such a huge part of the moving process. However, it’s not always easy to let go of items you’ve had for a long time. Doubly so if you’re moving to a much smaller space or just don’t have the time to go through everything you own. You don’t want to accidentally throw out your late grandmother’s quilt!

While you can find your own storage units, many moving companies (like Great Movers) provide storage options for customers. The best part is that the movers will help bring your belongings to your storage unit and then to your new home once you’re ready, saving you a lot of time. There are many reasons a storage unit can be beneficial to the moving process so it might be worth it to consider it for the future.

Declutter Your House

Once you’ve decided to move out of your house, you will want to attract as many buyers as possible. For best results, you should declutter your house as much as possible as a tidy home will showcase the space in the best possible light. Even if your house is large, a cluttered garage, full closet, or large stack of boxes strewn about the house can turn off potential buyers.

While it might be easier to start packing up when you know your closing date, it’s not always possible. In many cases, even if you do know the closing date, your move-out and move-in dates might not overlap.

Whatever the case is, the idea is to get as much non-essential stuff out of your house and somewhere else. If you’re not able to move into your new place yet, you will have to put your boxes into storage for a few months. Luckily, most reputable movers offer safe and secure short-term storage solutions. Plus, they don’t necessarily need to have exact dates. When you’re ready to move your boxes into your new place, all you need to do is give them a call and let them know your plans. They’ll deliver the items to you with zero hassle.

Plus, putting your stuff in storage early on allows you to also take a second look at what you own. With so much going on from finding a new house, closing on the new house, finding a buyer, packing, and all the dozens of other tasks you’ll probably be overwhelmed. Chances are you might throw out something accidentally and/or bring too many items to your new place that you don’t need. You might even bring bulky items like furniture that won’t even fit in your new place!

With everything in storage, you can spend a bit more time sorting through your belongings. If you can, wait to declutter the storage unit until after you’ve moved in. There’s nothing quite like living in a new place to give you a clearer picture of where you want to put things and whether your old aesthetic matches your new house. Plus, you’ll have a clean, empty space when you move so you can easily paint the walls without worrying about dirtying up your stuff.

Reduce Moving Costs

It might sound counterintuitive, but renting a storage unit could save you moving costs. The smaller units can often cost as little as $100 and many places offer a discount on the first month. Many CT moving companies might even offer discounts on your move if you also use their storage solutions. Of course, you shouldn’t assume that you’ll get these discounts so make sure that you ask about any promotions when you talk to the movers over the phone.

Even if you don’t get a discount, moving might still be cheaper if you put some things in storage. With less stuff to load and unload, the movers will take less time, which means a lower price tag. Of course, it also means you will need to move your own boxes into and out of storage yourself for maximum cost savings.

Alleviate Stress

While you can reduce stress by planning ahead, sometimes you’ll still run into some hiccups. Maybe your new house isn’t ready in time or maybe the people who want to purchase your home need to move in faster than expected. There are so many things that can happen that it can be overwhelming. The last thing you need is not having a safe place to store your belongings.

Even if everything goes according to plan, it can still be tricky to try and pack and move everything in a short amount of time. Thai is especially true if you’re making a long-distance move. That’s why renting a storage unit can be a great option. You can start packing even before you put your house on the market and store your stuff as early as possible. Plus, you can keep adding to the unit as the selling and buying process gets underway.

Find the Right Buyer for Items

Yard sales might be great for selling the basic knick knacks you don’t want to bring with you, but they might not be the best for more valuable items. Of course, anything could be considered ‘valuable’ so it really comes down to your knowledge of what you own and how well you know the pricing. Things that can sell for a lot include:

  • Collectible toys
  • Comic books
  • Trading cards
  • Camera lenses
  • Vintage clothes
  • Designer purses and shoes
  • Scientific equipment

Of course, to make money on things like collectibles, they need to be in almost pristine condition. For toys, most are only worth money if they are still in the box so make sure to do some research and price accordingly. There are a lot of places online where you can list your items for sale, but the most popular remains eBay. Depending on the quality and rarity of the item you’re selling, you might even be able to sell it at a profit. In order to do this, you can’t have a deadline where you need to get rid of your items. That’s why a storage unit is so useful. You can simply pack them away and spend some time doing your research and finding the right buyer.

Consider Storage Solutions for Your Next Move

Moving is both an exciting and stressful endeavor, but you can lighten the burden by adding on either long or short term storage options. That way, you will have most of your things packed already weeks before your move. And if worse comes to worst and you have to move out before you can move into your new place, you will already have your belongings in storage. It’s a win win.

If you are interested in storage solutions, make sure to ask the professional movers what they offer.

FAQ

Will my stuff be safe in storage?

It depends on who you use, but with Great Movers we offer 24/7 surveillance and secure indoor storage facilities.

How long can I store my belongings?

Most moving companies allow you to store your boxes for up to a year, though you can always ask for an extension if that isn’t enough time.

What happens if something gets damaged while in storage?

If your items are damaged while in storage, make sure to let the movers know the second you notice. Your items are automatically insured under the released value protection for $0.60 per pound per item. If you plan on storing valuable items, you should take out moving insurance so you can be reimbursed for the total cost of the damage.

Categories
Moving Company

How to Find Reliable Moving Companies in CT

How to Find Reliable Moving Companies in CT

Thanks to the internet, you can find dozens of movers in Connecticut in a couple of seconds. However, there are almost too many companies to choose from and, more importantly, there are more scammers out there than ever before. In some ways, finding a trustworthy CT moving company is harder than ever as you will have to spend time researching each potential company. Still, you’ll be happy that you performed your due diligence once all of your belongings are safely in your new home.

If you don’t know where to start when looking for CT movers, the steps below should help you weed out any potential low-quality movers and scammers.

Ask Friends and Family

Sure, the internet is great, but there’s nothing better than having your friends and/or family members provide you with recommendations. Nowadays, even online reviews aren’t necessarily trustworthy as companies can easily pay people to write good reviews. What they can’t do is pay off people you already know. If you know someone who used a professional CT movers, ask them about their experience. Some good questions to ask include:

  • Were the movers on-time?
  • Was the moving crew professional?
  • Did anything get damaged during the move and how did the company respond?
  • Did the final moving cost match the initial quote? If not, was it because you forgot to include something or did they try to up charge you?
  • What additional services, if any, from the movers did you use? How do you rate that service?

Ask as many questions as you can think of! Your friends and family should be more than happy to answer them and give insight into the good and bad of the company they used. If their report sounds good to you, then make sure to add that moving company to the list.

You might not know anyone who has moved recently, so your next best bet is to read online reviews. No company has 100% customer satisfaction. If you notice thousands of reviews but zero complaints, the company might have deleted some of the more critical ones. You should also filter by lower ratings and see what the issues were. It’s up to you to decide if these negative reviews are warranted or not.

Shop Around

Yes, even if your friends or family members gave glowing reviews for the same moving company, it’s in your best interest to find at least two other options. There are a few reasons for this:

Choosing a moving day that works around your schedule

While most movers should have availability during the time frame that might not always be the case if you’re moving during peak season (May-September) or making a last-minute move. If your move falls into either category you definitely want to have some backup options in case the one you really want falls through.

Ensuring a company offers all of the services you need

All moving companies offer basic loading and unloading, but not all offer the same extra services. Many don’t even offer the same quality of service for their basic moves! Highly-rated movers in CT will include free services with the basic move such as disassembling and reassembling basic furniture, wardrobe boxes, dismounting TVs, etc.

If you require something besides basic moving, such as packing/unpacking, storage, etc., mention that in your initial call. You don’t want any surprises on the day of the move!

Negotiating a better rate

You likely won’t see huge fluctuations in the estimate for your move so long as you are in contact with professional moving companies. If one estimate seems significantly cheaper than the others, don’t book them. Chances are the company is trying to scam you!

With that said, you can see if the company has any active deals going on especially if you’re moving during off-peak season. You can often leverage the quote from another company to negotiate a better rate with the movers you prefer.

Verify Their Legitimacy

All reputable moving companies have a unique number that is provided by the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) when they register as a moving company. All movers must provide this number on their website and in their advertising. In addition, they must also have a carrier number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). If you don’t see the number anywhere on their site, consider that a red flag. You can always call and ask for it, but the information is supposed to be readily available so you can do your research before calling. If they cannot provide a number, do not book them!

To check a USDOT number go to the FMCSA site and search for the moving company you are using. You can check if there are any complaints, crashes, safety issues, etc. While you’re on the search result, you should check the following:

  • Basic information – make sure the company name, address, and phone number on the site matches what you see on the website
  • State carrier ID – not all states require a USDOT. If that’s the case, you can look up their state carrier ID that verifies they can make local moves
  • Operating status – make sure it says active! Avoid any companies that are inactive, out-of-service, or not authorized.

In order for moving companies to get their DOT number, they have to prove they have the appropriate insurance. In general, professional movers should have general and automobile liability insurance as well as workers’ compensation and property insurance. That way, should anything happen during the move, nothing comes out of your pocket. That means, if the movers damage your old or new home, their insurance will handle the cost of repair. It also means that if one of the moving crews gets injured on the job, the moving company will handle it.

Look Out for Other Red Flags

It’s not always easy to spot a scammer and with a high stress event like moving, it can be easy to get pressured into signing a contract, especially if you’re short on time. If you have a bad feeling about the company, trust your gut. With that said, here are some common red flags:

  • Asking for a large deposit up front- Most moving companies might ask for a small deposit to reserve your date, but if they are asking for a large cash deposit, it likely means they are scammers.
  • Avoiding your questions – reputable moving companies will always be happy to answer any questions you have as they want to provide you with the best experience possible. If the person on the phone dodges your questions or simply can’t answer them, it’s not a good sign.
  • Using high pressure tactics – most scammers want to put you into a situation where you feel like you don’t have any choices but to work with them whether that’s because a ‘deal’ is running out or that their slots are booking quickly. If you feel like the person on the phone is really trying to get you to sign paperwork on the initial call, find another company.
  • Significantly cheaper than the competition – everyone wants to save money, but most professional moving companies have relatively similar pricing. If you find a deal that’s too good to be true, it probably is. Many scam companies will provide only the fixed rate in their initial quote. It isn’t until moving day that they will add on all the extra fees they didn’t mention.

If you do end up being a victim of a moving scam, report it as soon as possible to the Better Business Bureau and FMCSA. You might not be able to get your money back (unless you want to go to small claims court, which can take even more money), but you can at least warn others and inform the proper authorities.

Find the Right Movers for You

Hiring movers might make moving day a breeze, but it comes with its own set of challenges. In order to find the best movers, you should start planning your move at least a month in advance. That way, you will have plenty of time to do your research and find the perfect CT movers.

FAQ

Some of my items were damaged during the move. What should I do?

You have 90 days to file your claim and the movers have 120 days to either accept or reject your claim so make sure to file as soon as possible! If you have third-party moving insurance, reach out to them to see what you need to provide.

What should I do if the movers stop responding to my calls and emails

If you haven’t been able to reach the moving company for a few days, move on to your second or third choice. Chances are the first company was a scam and was discovered so they are laying low.

How much should a local move cost?

It depends on how much you’re moving and how far you’re moving. All of these affect the cost. However, moving a small 3-bedroom house locally can cost anywhere between $1,500-$3,000.