Frequently Asked Questions

Moving FAQs

Hiring a professional mover will result in less stress and an easier, safer move all around. Moving can be both emotionally and physically draining and handling delicate or bulky items with care requires specific moving skills and experience. Moving safely and successfully requires specialized equipment and experience, not unlike other trades.

Usually, a sales representative will be able to give you a good idea of a price range over the phone. But for the most accurate estimate, Able Moving & Storage recommends an on-site appointment to review the details of your move.

Moving labor represents the majority of the moving expense. However, you should also budget for packing supplies, such as moving boxes and tape, and for additional valuation (moving “insurance”) as needed. Able Moving & Storage takes special precautions with delicate or oversized items, such as flat-screen televisions and chandeliers.

With over thirty years of experience, our sales teams pride themselves on providing the most accurate moving estimates in the industry. Our proprietary sales system ensures that we work closely with every customer to fully understand his/her moving needs and to provide a moving estimate that reflects those needs. Be sure to offer as much information as possible at the time of the estimate, including reviewing the inventory for accuracy. Neglecting to mention additional items, or difficult areas of access, at the time of the moving estimate almost always results in unexpected costs for the customer.

Keep in mind that moving is both a science and an art, and each move is different. The best way to keep costs down is to be as prepared as possible for when the movers arrive, which will reduce or eliminate unexpected/unnecessary time. Moving boxes is one of the most time-consuming areas of a move, yet are some of the lightest things to move.

Another time saver, if we are not packing for you, is for you to use the same size boxes and be sure they are taped closed and labeled correctly for the movers. Stack them up, so the movers can just place them on the dolly and go. Also, while the movers will be happy to do so, the disassembly of furniture takes up time as well. You can try to disassemble any beds, desks, etc. to cut down on time. In short, anything that you can do yourself or anything that can help the movers move faster will cut down on your cost.

Although Able Moving & Storage will take every necessary precaution on your move, unexpected damage can occur; and it is important to make sure that your possessions are protected. We are able to offer valuation (“moving insurance”) to our customers at a very fair price due to the very low number of claims we file.

Preparing to Move

We recommend scheduling your move as far in advance as possible. The farther out you can plan your move, the greater the availability you will have in choosing a date and time that is convenient for you. A general rule of thumb is to contact us no later than two weeks in advance of your desired move date. We realize planning is not always possible and do our best to accommodate last-minute customers as well.

Focus on packing, instead of moving. Smaller items and moving boxes can be moved very quickly by professional movers. Don’t spend time trying to move these items yourself. Rather, focus on packing boxes, so that when the movers arrive, you are 100% ready. For more information on packing and packing supplies check out our Packing page and tips.

Focus on packing, instead of moving. Smaller items and moving boxes can be moved very quickly by professional movers. Don’t spend time trying to move these items yourself. Rather, focus on packing boxes, so when the movers arrive, you are 100% ready. For more information on packing and packing supplies check out our Packing page and tips.

Choose a simple labeling system (i.e. MBR for Master Bedroom) and make sure that all of your boxes are clearly marked. Boxes should be labeled on the top and 3 sides. Your movers will work closely with you at the destination to make sure everything ends up where you want it.

It is generally fine to leave clothing in dresser drawers during the move. Be sure to remove anything from the drawers than may roll around or shift during transport, as this can cause damage. If the dresser is particularly large (a triple dresser or part of a large armoire), it is best to at least partially empty it.

Able Moving & Storage, as well as all other licensed movers, will not move hazardous or combustible items such as propane tanks, firearms, paint, and aerosols, as the temperature in the truck could cause these items to explode or ignite.

Moving Day

When the movers first arrive, they will do a walkthrough of your current home with you, confirming which items are going and which are not.

If your moving day is rapidly approaching and it becomes clear that you will not be fully packed, it is critical that you inform your move coordinator as soon as possible. He/she can work with you to make the best possible “plan b” for packing. This may mean having the movers finish your packing. Alternatively, if we have the availability, there may be an option to push back your move date to give you more time to pack. If you only have a small number of items left to pack, your movers can often complete this on moving day; however, it is important to understand that this will add time to the job and, therefore, add to the total cost of the move.

Absolutely! When we deliver your items to your new home, the movers will work closely with you to make sure all furniture and boxes arrive in the correct rooms.

On moving day, the professional movers should handle the job entirely. They are highly trained and the best suited to carry the weight and negotiate the loading of the truck. Generally speaking, having non-professionals work alongside the movers slows things down and costs you more in the long run. Your friends and family can be most helpful in preparing for the move – packing moving boxes or caring for your pets or children.

Unfortunately, professional moving companies cannot transport customers in the moving truck for liability reasons.

While professional moving companies may vary, at Able Moving & Storage we clean up any clutter we create during the moving process. However, we do not do general house cleaning. We recommend asking your friends, family, and neighbors for a referral for this type of service.

It is possible, but not recommended. We keep a keen eye on the weather and if it isn’t safe to put our crews or your belongings in harm’s way, we will notify you of our change of plans. Our motto is “no one gets hurt”. Remember: it’s not only the 1st stop that needs to be clear of snow and/or ice but also the 2nd or any additional stops along the way that must have walkways and driveways cleared before we can begin the move.

This is certainly not a complete list of all possible questions you may have, so we strongly encourage you to reach out to us for all other questions.

Able is Hiring!