Is Paying More for Professional Movers Actually Worth It? (Real Examples)
So, you're planning to move soon. You're gearing up to pack your bags and relocate you and your family to a new city, state, or neighborhood. As you prepare for the upcoming transition, you may wonder: Is hiring movers worth it? 
Hiring professional movers to help with your next relocation may look more expensive than a do-it-yourself move. However, there are many hidden advantages that you may not have considered. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of hiring professional help and look at real-life scenarios where hiring movers is the best option. Here's everything you need to know.
Understanding the "Cost" Beyond the Quote
When you request a quote from a moving company, they will ask you a list of basic questions about where you're moving to or from. A relocation specialist will then reach out to learn more about what you need help moving, your home size, and other specifics. From there, they will create a custom moving quote that contains services that align with your needs. The quote will include all costs associated with your move, including:
- Hiring movers
- Renting a moving truck
- Gas, hotel stays, and meals for movers
- Creating and developing a moving timeline
- On-going customer support throughout the relocation
While the cost may seem high, it's typically cheaper than the DIY approach.
The Hidden Costs of DIY Moving: Time, Stress, & Damage
DIYing a move is labor-intensive and can cause unwanted physical and mental stress. While it may appear to be the cheapest option available, many don't consider the hidden costs associated with this approach.
For starters, a DIY move is a big time commitment. You may be required to take time off work to complete the move. You'll also need to work countless hours to ensure everything is fully packed and ready for move day, which can cause additional stress to your workweek. You'll also need to manage your move timeline and logistics.
When juggling multiple tasks on top of your everyday life, you'll likely forget at least one or two essential tasks during your move, which can cause unwanted delays or challenges.
Lastly, unlike professional movers, you aren't insured to handle the tasks of a move. So, if anything breaks in transit, you must replace the item out-of-pocket.
What a "Top-Tier" Mover Actually Delivers
Professional moving companies only employ the best of the best. The movers they hire are professionally trained to handle all aspects of your move, including packing, loading, transporting, and unloading. They are also fully licensed and insured. Moving companies are required to provide Basic Liability Coverage, which covers $0.60 per pound per article. Most moving companies also offer additional moving valuation coverage for an extra fee.
Real-World Scenarios: When Paying More Pays Off
If you're still wondering if it is worth it to hire movers, we're here to help. Let's explore three real-world scenarios where hiring professional movers is better than DIYing a relocation.
Scenario 1: The Cross-Country Relocation
A cross-country relocation is any move over 400 miles. It typically involves moving from one side of the country to another. Whether you're moving for work, family, or fun, this is a big move that requires a ton of logistical prep and planning.
If you decide to DIY a cross-country relocation, you'll be responsible for packing, loading, transporting, and unpacking your belongings. You must rent a moving truck, pay for gas, and book hotel stays. You'll also need to plan for meals, rest breaks, and unexpected delays. The relocation can take four to 14 days to complete, depending on how quickly you can move. If you're moving with kids or pets, you must plan breaks and rest stops for them. Depending on your situation, you'll also need to request time off work, which is a big financial commitment.
When you hire movers, all of this is handled for you. The quote will include all costs associated with the
cross-country relocation, so you don't need to worry about unexpected charges or fees accumulated along the way. You'll also be able to track your items in real-time with an online GPS tracking tool so you can plan for your items' arrival.
Hiring movers is the most cost-effective and efficient way to complete a cross-country relocation. Some moving companies, like North America Van Lines, can also assist with auto shipment and storage solutions.
Scenario 2: Moving Valuables & Antiques
If you're relocating with valuables and antiques, you'll need to be extra careful when packing, transporting, and unpacking the items. If you decide to DIY your move, you'll be responsible if anything breaks in transit.
When you hire movers, the items will be insured by Basic Liability Coverage. You also have the option to add more insurance for additional peace of mind. This means that anywhere you break in transit, the items will be covered by insurance. Professional movers use advanced packing techniques for fragile items, ensuring everything is properly packed into each box. Their attention to detail is unmatched and ensures the safety of fragile or delicate items.
Scenario 3: Busy Professionals & Families
You might be worried about relocating if you work full-time or have a big family. What if you can't take the time off of work? What if a little one gets hurt or sick while you're relocating cross-country? How will you find the time to pack your belongings while working 9-5?
DIYing a move when you are a busy professional or family is tedious. Moving is a time-consuming process that requires your undivided attention to ensure everything is safely packed and ready for transit.
If you hired movers instead, you'd get more time back in your day to focus on what matters most - your job and family. You'll also be able to focus on tasks like switching utilities, canceling subscriptions, and updating your address with USPS. The movers will handle the heavy lifting so that you can enjoy a hassle-free relocation.
Is It Worth Paying for Packing When Moving?
You can't put a price tag on convenience. Hiring professional movers to handle the packing is the quickest and most effective way to complete the packing process. Movers are professionally trained to pack oddly shaped and fragile items. They prioritize organization to ensure all your items are properly packed and ready for transit.
At North American Van Lines, you can customize your packing quote to align with your budget and needs. Our movers can assist with self-packing, fragile-only packing, or full-service packing. Let us know how we can help, and we'll take it from there.
What to Look for in a Professional Moving Company
You want to ensure the moving company is professional, reputable, and trustworthy. When exploring different quotes and deciding if hiring a moving company is worth it, you should look for the following:
- Positive customer reviews and testimonials
- Certifications and licenses
- DOT and FSMA authorization
- Customizable moving plans and services
- Free moving resources
The Verdict: Is Hiring Movers Worth It?
If you're still wondering if it's worth it to hire movers, the answer is always yes! Professional movers provide unbeatable support and guidance. With their help and expertise, your belongings will always be safe and protected in transit.
North American Van Lines has been helping individuals and families relocate for over 90 years. We work with some of the best movers and relocation specialists in the United States and Canada. Our entire team is fully trained and ready to assist with your next move.
