Moving is stressful as it is. But it can get worse when you mistakenly hire amateur movers for assistance. However, it can also be pretty straightforward. All you need is to work with the finest moving companies in your area. But what makes them become the best? Learn the eight things the leading moving companies in San Diego have alike.

1. Licensed and Insured

Anyone can just buy a moving truck, make a website, proclaim to be professional movers, and start accepting customers. Surprisingly, some may actually do okay in the job. However, that is an extremely rare sight, and hiring amateur movers pose many dangers. And when an accident happens, they’re not bound to pay for any damages because they don’t have insurance coverage.

Luckily, the top moving companies always have a legal license and insurance, as it’s the first thing they’ll need to operate appropriately. It also helps to ensure they follow business regulations. Check if they have both, and never go for those who don’t.

2. Experience

Here’s a prevalent quote that you’ve probably heard: “experience is the best teacher.” Moving companies need substantial exposure in the business before everyone considers them the best. Plus, people usually trust those with more experience. Because why not? It can only mean one thing. They have full expertise and knowledge about their job. Not only that, experienced movers will know full well how to navigate through the streets of San Diego. You’ll never worry about your items getting lost.

3. Excellent Customer Service

One key to a successful, hassle-free move is good communication. Movers should understand how to properly talk and answer customers’ questions as well as give support whenever needed. It’s not often that issues arise during transit. But chances are never zero. So when that happens, you’ll want someone that really pays attention and acts on your concerns, giving you peace of mind.

4. Great Reputation

Working with a moving company in San Diego requires you to leave all your items to them for transport. That’s insane, right? Especially the fact that they’re likely complete strangers to you before hiring them. But worry not. If you choose the best company in San Diego, it’s a guarantee you can trust them. Still, make sure for yourself. Talk to family, friends, and acquaintances who just relocated with movers. Ask them how it went and their thoughts about the company. If they answer positively, that’s great. To the list, it goes. If otherwise, it’ll be best to avoid them. Also, don’t forget to read through customer reviews online, as it’s yet another perfect way to find a respectable company.

5. Complete Materials

The leading moving companies in San Diego all have any essential materials you might need. Whether it’s for packing regular stuff, specialty items, or equipment to ensure their integrity, rest assured they can immediately provide. You don’t have to waste your time looking for materials anywhere.

6. Flexible Services

Every relocation is different. What you might need or want may not be the same for others. San Diego’s best knows this all too well. That’s why they offer personalized services for your convenience. Do you want help with packing only? Covered. Loading and unloading? They can lift. Full-service package? Without a doubt. You have the freedom to customize the assistance you need.

7. Transparent Rates

It’s not a secret that relocation is expensive. This is yet another reason why it gets stressful. Good moving companies offer upfront prices from the start. Although it may change slightly due to the specifics of your move, you’ll still have an idea of the average cost of your relocation. They will also conduct an in-home inspection for a more accurate estimate.

However, some movers never do this and offer you cheaper prices instead. This might sound tempting at first. That’s a discount. Who wouldn’t want it? But, watch out! You may be surprised by hidden fees charged after the process. Keep away from companies offering lower but vague rates.

8. Affordable Rates

If you think that their services are probably more expensive because they’re the best, think again. Contrary to that, they offer competitive and fair rates – not too cheap and not too pricey, which is why they’re at the top. They don’t present inexpensive charges only to give subpar quality services and hidden fees. Moreover, the finest moving companies in San Diego are never overpriced.

Conclusion

There are a lot of moving companies in San Diego. One might even be just around the corner. However, it doesn’t mean you can hire any of them without careful consideration. Rather, make sure you work with only the best. That is, if you want a smoother, stress-free relocation.

Whether you’re headed south for the winter or making a permanent move to your favorite locale, you want the process to go as smoothly as possible. Take a peek at these seven professional packing tips that can help lighten the moving load, whether you’re moving near or moving long distance.

1. PROFESSIONAL PACKING

Depending on the moving-project size and distance, you may want to consider hiring a professional mover to get your valuables to and fro. Professional movers have trained teams of professionals who understand the skills and delicate nature of packing and preparing homes for moving. For local moves, the average moving company charges between $90 and $130 per hour for packing. While this might sound pricey, consider that the fee typically includes 2-3 men, supplies, and faster packing by seasoned pros.

2. TYPICAL BOX COSTS

The folks at Advisor.com offer this price range for professional packing: “At $25-$50 an hour per mover, you can expect to pay at least $400 additional in hourly costs to pack and unpack your home,” depending on home size.

Independent types that prefer to pack and unpack your things your way can shop local home centers like Lowe’s or Home Depot for all the packing supplies you need. Purchase by the single box or by the pack. For example, one small 16″ x 12″ box costs just under a buck, whereas one extra-large cardboard wardrobe box will cost around $15.00. Some boxes come with lids and handle – great for files, books, and gaming items. Don’t forget the clear packing tape to help boxes keep their strength and integrity during the move.

3. WHAT AM I PACKING?

Moving boxes offer many size, shape, and purpose options. Choosing the correct box can save time, money, and your back. Start with the basics. Think small, medium, large and extra-large. For example, small boxes are designed for smaller items like jewelry, smaller personal hygiene products, belts, scarves, ties, and smaller accessories. Extra-large boxes would be ideal for loading items that are not too heavy, like blankets, pillows, and smaller accent furniture.

4. PACK HEAVY-TO-LIGHT

Gravity plays an important role in successful packing methods. Packing heavier or larger items first allows for better balance, space utilization, and transporting. Be mindful not to over-stuff the box, filling in any unused spaces. Packing padding or bubble wrap fills in gaps and adds extra security. Leave no more than one inch at the top of the box for proper closure and sealing of the box.

5. STEP BY STEP

Organized packing can save loads of time and confusion when it’s time to unpack. Select a room at a time, a category at a time, or a size at a time. Mix it up and make it fun!

6. LABEL ALL BOXES

Labeling all boxes will greatly assist in faster unpacking. Here are some easy labeling ideas:

1. Walmart – Moving Labels Identify Moving Box Contents 140 Labels, 14 Different $4.99
2. Walmart – Duck Pack & Track Moving and Storage Labeling System, 3 x 4 in., 40-Count $14.97.

7. MOVING ACCESSORIES

Take advantage of various moving packets. Bulk shopping means getting combination packets of moving to-do lists, moving checklists, planners, labels and more.

For more professional packing tips, enjoy these excellent resources to get your belongings handled with appropriate packing care.

 

Regardless of whether you are planning to move from the East Coast to California to pursue a great job opportunity or for personal reasons, the scope of this relocation project can be immense. All moves can be stressful experiences, but the challenge associated with relocating to the other side of the country can be intense at times. By approaching your relocation effort with the right strategy, you may be able to decrease your stress level and enjoy a more productive and efficient move.

Choose Your New Home Carefully

It can be challenging to find a new home to move to because of the distance. Avoid making a hasty decision about where to move to simply because of the distance challenge. If you cannot visit your new hometown in-person to explore rental options, consider researching crime rates, commute times, and more online. It may be helpful to hire a real estate agent to assist with the process. In addition, avoid buying a home until you are more familiar with the area, and only sign a short-term lease. This gives you the ability to get to know more about the area before you commit to a specific area of town on a long-term basis.

Hire a Moving Company

Your two options for relocating your belongings to your new home in California are to hire movers or to drive the truck yourself. When you drive the truck yourself, you will have to begin a long road trip in a loaded-down truck after going through the exhausting experience of loading your belongings into the truck. This road trip ends when you arrive at your new home and must then unload the truck. Hiring a long-distance moving company may be the more expensive option, but it is nonetheless more convenient and manageable. You can begin looking for a reputable moving company by requesting in-home written estimates or comparing California movers.

Think About the Logistics

It is important to think through the aspects of your actual moving experience carefully. Consider making hotel reservations along the way if you are driving to California. If you are flying, hire a service provider to transport your vehicles to your new home. You will also need to make flight plans as well as plans for getting your pets to your new home. Budget properly for this trip to avoid financial stress.

Get Settled in Your New State

Some people will need to begin work immediately after arriving in California, but it may be best to give yourself at least a few days to get settled in. You will need to register your vehicles in the state and get a new driver’s license. You may benefit by driving around to get to know the area better. In addition, it can be helpful to learn about the local culture so that you can settle in more easily.

As you can see, there are many facets of a cross-country relocation that you need to think about. By focusing your attention fully on each of these factors, you may be able to streamline your relocation experience.