The three most common moving and storage options are long-term, short-term, and storage in transit (SIT).
Many people have a misconception that renting a Uhual and getting a public storage unit is more cost-effective than hiring a professional moving and storage company, but studies show otherwise. Hiring a professional mover is 25% (on average) less expensive than a DIY move.
If you’re up in the air between a DIY move or hiring a moving company, weigh both options’ pros and cons and the costs.
The storage service you’ll require is based on several factors. The length of storage you’ll need, your location, and what you’re moving. The items below can help you choose the best moving and storage services for your specific needs:
Determine your storage needs: Asses the stuff you’re storing and the volume of your move. Consider if you need short-term or long-term storage, a temperature-controlled unit, and options for valuable or fragile items.
Ask about security measures: Ensure your moving company has security measures at their warehouse facilities. Ask about how your stuff is stored and who will access your household goods.
Consider insurance options: Always ask your mover about insurance while your items are in storage. Some moving companies don’t cover household goods while in storage which can create confusion in case of a claim.
Compare costs: Request moving quotes from multiple companies and compare the prices. Ask about any additional fees like in and out charges or handling.
Following these steps, you can select the best moving and storage services.
When a customer requires storage, movers follow a process to ensure your goods are safe. Procedures may vary from mover to mover, but here are the general steps involved:
Long-term storage is as it sounds. It’s for an extended period, typically three months or more. Most long-term storage facilities are equipped to handle various types of household goods, from furniture, appliances, and high-end artwork.
Most moving companies use a vaulting system to keep your goods safe. A vault is a large wooden crate where your goods are stored before going out for delivery. Additionally, you can ask about a temperature-controlled unit for fragile items.
When it comes to moving companies, the most common storage options are:
Warehousing: Most moving companies have their own warehouse facilities where they can securely store your household goods. They are usually temperature-controlled and have security systems to ensure no theft.
Container storage: Some movers offer container storage solutions like POD. PODs will deliver a container to your home for you to load. Once you’re ready for delivery, they will return to pick up the container and deliver it to your destination for you to offload.
Trailer storage: Sometimes, a moving company may offer the option to store your household goods in the trailer. It’s typically used for short durations of storage, say a couple of days.
It’s important to note that the availability of storage options may vary depending on the moving company and your location. When planning and considering storage, you should check with specific moving companies to understand their storage solutions and discuss your needs.
Your belongings will remain in storage for the agreed-upon dates. Depending on your situation, it can vary from a few days to weeks. Once you’re ready to receive your items at the new address, you can schedule the final delivery with the mover of your choice.
SIT is typically billed based on the number of days you’ll require. Additionally, there may be handling fees associated with storage in transit.
Additionally, some movers don’t insure household goods while in storage, so if a fire or unforeseen circumstances cause damage to your household goods, you may not be covered.
If you’re looking for moving and storage services, it’s best to speak with the moving company of your choice regarding their insurance policy, coverage, and cost. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Temperture-controlled storage, also known as a climate-controlled storage, is a type of warehouse facility that maintains consistent temperature keeping out humidity. It’s essential for storing household goods that can get damaged by extreme temperatures.
The temperatures are typically kept between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent damage from the heat or frigid temperatures. These units may also control humidity levels to avoid moisture-related issues, such as mold or mildew, which could be detrimental to certain goods.
Once you’re ready for delivery, you must notify your moving company to arrange delivery. The delivery time frame will vary based on your storage type, location, and company. Storage services are only sometimes offered in the area you’re moving to, so it’s best to speak with your moving company about their process.
Moving and storage services vary based on the moving company, location, and what you’re moving. However, storing household goods with a mover can be cost-effective and save time.
Thanks for taking the time and reading this article. We wish you the best of luck with your move and look forward to speaking with you soon.
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Yes, International Van Lines is a licensed carrier (USDOT: 2293832 MC: 796971)
Yes, we require a deposit to reserve a moving date.
All deposits are fully refundable up to 48 business hours before the scheduled pickup date.
Tipping is optional, but If you want to leave a tip for your movers, follow the guide below.
We accept credit cards for the deposit. However, the balance is due as a cashier’s check, money order, cash, or business check. We will require 50% of the balance on the pickup date and the remaining balance on delivery.
