How To Choose a Moving Company
Jordan W • September 11, 2020
When the talk of hiring a moving service for a commercial or residential project, it is always important to make sure that you are hiring the best and most qualified team to do the job. The day of the move can be stressful enough as the emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of relocation come to bare. Recently, the Better Business Bureau received over 5,000 complaints related to moving companies. Most of these incidents were related to items being lost or stolen during or after the transportation of items. Also, many complaints were rooted in estimated charges not being honored or untimely arrivals. Hopefully this passage will give you some insight into what thing to look for when searching for the perfect team to do the job. Taking the time to filter through all of the viable candidates will not only save large amounts of time on moving day, but it could save you hundreds in cash as well. In a best case scenario, vet all of the moving companies in question before choosing the one that fits into your schedule and lifestyle the best. Lets take a look at how to choose the right moving service near me.
First, watch out for anything alarming when it comes to a moving company. These red flags and alarm bells should go up if the mover wants full payment up front. This tactic is often the predecessor of a moving scam and this could indicate that it is not a business at all. Also, take inventory of how the mover behaves on the phone, in person, or with their crew. If the team in question does not seem competent or experienced, or has trouble answering basic relocation questions, it would be wise to find a more experienced provider. Another red flag that is important to be cognizant of is if the movers show up in a rented van or truck. Most reputable and reliable teams own their own equipment.
Next, check available media outsources that can give more insight to the business you are qualifying. This step in invaluable because it allows the consumer to see a snapshot of how the business behaved and executed on the job with other customers in the past. Finding a business that is at a minimum, listed with the BBB is a good step in the right direction for finding a good mover. It is even better if that business is BBB accredited.
A simple yet challenging step in finding a mover is to look for referrals. This can be done in many different mediums such as asking friends and family, or referring to phone books, and business listings. A great resource for getting a moving company referral is through the real estate agent or broker that you might be working with. Often times, these agents have extensive connections with reputable movers in the area. You can also reference our list of awesome Prescott Movers that serve Prescott along with our company.
This rule is the most important rule in this list. Ensure that the moving team is licensed and insured. Acquire the U.S. DOT number for state to state moves. This will prove two things to you as a consumer, the first being the legitimacy of the business to execute interstate moves, and that they are an insured entity. There are many resources on the web for you to use to file a claim against an unsavory mover but this is a very important aspect of a domestic team. Not only does it protect your items in the event of misuse or loss, but it also nods to the fact that the company takes precaution to cover their assets as much to protect yours.
A further quality check might include referencing the businesses address and website to verify that it has a real base of location. Pull up google and type in the business name and see if there is an address associated with the name. A real mover will most likely be based locally and have a property that holds equipment and vehicles.
Finally, do not stop at one estimate, ask at least four different movers for a quote and tell them you would like it to be an in-person estimate. An in-person quote will allow the estimator to fully calculate the cost by seeing the bigger items, as well as overall volume and square footage of the space being relocated.
Relocating an office is a complex undertaking with high stakes. It involves more than just moving desks and chairs; it's about transitioning your entire business operation with minimal disruption. A poorly planned office move can lead to lost productivity, damaged equipment, and unnecessary stress for your entire team. A successful one, however, can set the stage for future growth in a new, improved workspace. At Prescott Moving Company, we specialize in commercial and office relocations . We understand that time is money, and our goal is to manage your move with efficiency, professionalism, and meticulous care. This guide will walk you through essential preparation tips and explain how partnering with our expert team can ensure a smooth and seamless transition for your business. The Foundation: Your Office Moving Plan A successful office move doesn't happen by accident; it's the result of careful planning and coordination. Rushing into a relocation without a clear strategy is a recipe for chaos. The moment you decide to move, the planning process should begin. Create a Master Checklist and Timeline Start by creating a detailed moving checklist that outlines every task, assigns responsibility to a specific person or department, and sets a deadline. Your timeline should work backward from moving day, with key milestones for tasks like decluttering, hiring movers, updating your address, and setting up IT infrastructure. Appoint a Move Coordinator Designate a single point of contact within your company to oversee the entire moving process. This move coordinator will be the liaison between your employees, department heads, and the Prescott Moving Company team. Having a dedicated coordinator streamlines communication and ensures that everyone is on the same page. Communicate with Your Employees Keep your team informed every step of the way. Announce the move as early as possible and provide regular updates on the timeline and their specific responsibilities. Clear communication reduces anxiety and helps employees feel like a part of the process, which encourages cooperation and a smoother transition for everyone. Preparing Your Office for the Movers Once you have a plan in place, it’s time to prepare your physical space for the move. Proper preparation will save an immense amount of time and prevent confusion on moving day. Declutter and Purge An office move is the perfect opportunity to get rid of outdated files, broken equipment, and unused furniture. Encourage each department to purge what they no longer need. This reduces the volume of items to be moved, which can lower your moving costs and prevent you from cluttering your new space. Remember to shred sensitive documents and recycle old electronics responsibly. Develop a Labeling System A clear and consistent labeling system is the single most important factor for an organized move. Without it, moving day becomes a guessing game. At Prescott Moving Company, we recommend a color-coded system. Assign a color to each department (e.g., Blue for Marketing, Red for Sales, Green for IT). Label every single item: This includes boxes, computers, monitors, chairs, and file cabinets. Each label should include: The employee’s name (if applicable). The department name and color. The corresponding room number in the new office. A box number that corresponds to an inventory list. Provide your movers with a floor plan of the new office that clearly shows the color-coded departments. This allows our team to place items in their correct locations quickly and efficiently, minimizing the work you have to do upon arrival. Back-Up and Secure Your Data Your company's data is one of its most valuable assets. Before you unplug a single server or computer, ensure that all critical data is backed up to a secure cloud service or an off-site server. The IT department should be responsible for disconnecting, packing, and securely transporting sensitive hardware like servers and network equipment. How Prescott Moving Company Streamlines Your Move While your team focuses on planning and communication, our professional movers handle the heavy lifting and logistical challenges. Our commercial moving services are designed to manage every aspect of your physical relocation. Professional Packing Services Your employees are experts in their fields, not in packing. Let them continue their work while our trained team handles the packing. We use high-quality materials and proven techniques to ensure that everything from office supplies to delicate electronics is packed safely and securely. We can pack entire departments or just specific areas, depending on your needs. Furniture Disassembly and Reassembly Office furniture, such as cubicles, workstations, and conference tables, can be complex. Our movers are experienced in disassembling these items correctly, protecting all components during transport, and reassembling them accurately in your new space. We handle all the hardware and tools, so you don't have to worry about lost screws or confusing instructions. Safe Transport of Office Equipment We understand the value and fragility of your office equipment. Computers, printers, copiers, and other electronics are carefully wrapped, padded, and secured in our moving trucks to prevent damage during transit. Our team is trained to handle this equipment with the utmost care from start to finish. Efficient Loading and Unloading Our experienced moving crew works efficiently to load and unload the truck, following the floor plan and labeling system you’ve created. This strategic approach ensures that items are placed in the correct rooms and departments, drastically reducing the time it takes for your team to get unpacked and operational. We work to minimize downtime so you can get back to business as quickly as possible. Trust Your Office Move to the Professionals An office move is a significant project that can disrupt your business if not handled correctly. By partnering with Prescott Moving Company, you are investing in a seamless, efficient, and stress-free transition. Our expertise in commercial relocations allows you to focus on running your business while we manage the complex logistics of the move. From creating a detailed moving plan to placing the last piece of furniture in your new space, we are here to support you every step of the way. Let us handle the details so you can look forward to a fresh start in your new location. Ready to plan your office relocation? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free estimate and let our commercial moving experts ensure your move is a success. Meta Information Meta Title: Office Moving Services | Prescott Moving Company Meta Description: Plan a seamless office move with expert tips from Prescott Moving Company. We offer packing, furniture assembly, and secure transport for businesses. Keywords: office moving, commercial relocation, Prescott Moving Company, business movers, office move checklist
Moving often comes with a transitional period. Whether you're downsizing, waiting for a new home to be ready, or simply decluttering, a storage unit can be an invaluable resource. However, getting your belongings safely into storage requires more than just tossing them into a truck. Proper preparation is key to ensuring your items remain in the same condition as when you packed them. At Prescott Moving Company, we are more than just movers; we are experts in the entire relocation process, including preparing your items for short-term or long-term storage. A successful storage experience begins with a smart plan for packing, organizing, and protecting your belongings. This guide, filled with our professional advice, will show you how to prepare your items for storage like a pro. Why Proper Storage Preparation Matters You might think that packing for storage is the same as packing for a direct move, but there are important differences. Items in storage are often left untouched for months or even years. They are exposed to temperature fluctuations, dust, and the simple wear and tear of being stacked in a confined space. Without proper preparation, you could open your unit to find broken heirlooms, mildewed furniture, or a disorganized mess that’s impossible to navigate. Taking the time to pack and organize correctly from the start saves you from future stress, damage, and financial loss. It ensures that when you’re ready to retrieve your belongings, they are safe, clean, and easy to find. Packing Strategies for Safe Storage The foundation of a good storage experience is excellent packing. At Prescott Moving Company, our teams are trained to pack items specifically for the rigors of storage. Here are some of the key strategies we use and recommend to our clients. 1. Gather the Right Supplies Don't skimp on packing materials. Using old grocery boxes or worn-out containers can lead to disaster. Invest in quality supplies to give your belongings the protection they need. Uniform Boxes: Use new, sturdy boxes of similar sizes. This makes stacking easier, more stable, and maximizes vertical space in your unit. Packing Tape: Use strong packing tape, not masking or duct tape, to seal boxes securely on the top and bottom. Protective Materials: Stock up on bubble wrap, packing paper (not newspaper, as the ink can transfer), and furniture pads or moving blankets. Plastic Bins: For items that are especially sensitive to moisture, consider using clear plastic bins with secure lids. They are great for clothing, important documents, and electronics. 2. Protect Fragile Items with Care Fragile items require special attention. Rushing this step is one of the biggest mistakes we see. Wrap Individually: Every fragile item, from glassware to picture frames, should be wrapped individually in packing paper or bubble wrap. Cushion Everything: Line the bottom of your boxes with a layer of crumpled packing paper or other cushioning material. After placing wrapped items inside, fill all empty spaces to prevent shifting. Nothing should rattle when you gently shake the box. Plates and Dishes: Pack plates vertically, like records in a crate. They are much stronger this way and less likely to break under pressure. 3. Prepare Furniture and Appliances Large items need preparation to survive storage without damage. Clean Everything: Before you move anything into storage, make sure it is clean and dry. Food crumbs can attract pests, and trapped moisture can lead to mold and mildew. Wipe down furniture, defrost refrigerators, and clean out ovens. Disassemble When Possible: Take apart bed frames, tables, and other large furniture. This not only saves a significant amount of space but also makes them easier and safer to move. Place all screws, bolts, and small hardware in a labeled plastic bag and tape it securely to the largest piece of the furniture. Cover and Protect: Use furniture pads, moving blankets, or even old sheets to cover wood furniture, sofas, and mattresses. This protects them from dust, moisture, and scratches. Avoid using plastic wrap directly on wood or leather, as it can trap moisture and cause damage. The Art of Labeling and Organization A well-organized storage unit is a lifesaver. When you need to find a specific item, you don't want to spend hours unpacking every box. This is where a clear labeling system comes in. Create a Detailed Inventory Before you start loading, create a master inventory list. You can do this with a simple notebook or a spreadsheet. For each box, assign a number and list the general contents. For example: Box #1: Kitchen - Everyday plates, bowls, silverware Box #2: Living Room - Books, photo albums Box #3: Kids' Room - Toys, winter clothing This inventory list is your map. Keep a copy with you and consider taping another copy to the wall just inside your storage unit door for easy reference. Label Every Box Clearly Every single box should be labeled. Use a thick permanent marker and write on the top and at least two sides of the box. Your labels should include: The box number (corresponding to your inventory list). The room it belongs to (e.g., "Kitchen," "Master Bedroom"). A brief description of the contents ("Pots and Pans," "Office Files"). A clear "FRAGILE" marking for any boxes containing breakable items. Maximizing Your Storage Space Loading the storage unit is like a game of Tetris. A strategic approach will help you fit more items safely and keep everything accessible. Build a Solid Base: Place your heaviest and sturdiest items at the back and along the walls of the unit. This includes appliances, large furniture, and heavy boxes. Create a Walkway: If possible, leave a narrow aisle down the center of your unit. This gives you a path to access items in the back without having to move everything in the front. Stack Strategically: Stack boxes like bricks, with heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Make sure your stacks are stable and don't lean. Keep Important Items Accessible: Place boxes and items you are most likely to need near the front of the unit. This includes seasonal items, important documents, or tools. Let Prescott Moving Company Handle the Prep Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t have to do it all alone. The professional team at Prescott Moving Company offers comprehensive moving and storage preparation services. We bring the expertise, the right materials, and the trained manpower to get the job done efficiently and safely. Our services include: Professional Packing: We can pack your entire home or just specific rooms, using proven techniques to protect every item. Expert Labeling and Inventory: We create a detailed, easy-to-understand inventory system so you always know where your belongings are. Safe Transportation: Our experienced movers will load, transport, and unload your items into your storage unit with the utmost care, maximizing space and ensuring everything is secure. An investment in professional preparation is an investment in the safety of your belongings and your own peace of mind. Ready to prepare for storage without the stress? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free estimate and let our experts handle the heavy lifting and careful packing for you. Meta Information Meta Title: Storage Packing Tips | Prescott Moving Company Meta Description: Learn how to prepare your belongings for storage with expert tips from Prescott Moving Company. We cover packing, organizing, and maximizing space.
Moving is often seen as a game of Tetris on a grand scale: fitting all your life's belongings into a truck. But long before you get to the truck, there’s an even more crucial step—packing everything into boxes. It might seem straightforward, but choosing the right box for the right item is one of the most important decisions you'll make during your move. Using the wrong box can lead to broken heirlooms, strained backs, and a chaotic, inefficient move. At Prescott Moving Company, we believe a successful move starts with smart packing. Our experience has taught us that the box itself is your first line of defense in protecting your possessions. We don’t just move your things; we guide you through the process of packing them safely and efficiently. This guide will walk you through why box selection is so critical and how our expertise can help you make the right choices for everything you own. Why Your Box Choice Matters Have you ever tried to carry a large box filled with books? Or watched in horror as the bottom of a flimsy grocery store box gives way? These common moving mishaps are almost always preventable. Using the right box is about more than just containment; it's about protection, efficiency, and safety. Protection for Your Belongings: The right box provides the proper structure and cushioning for its contents. A dish pack box is designed to protect fragile china, while a small, sturdy box is meant to handle the weight of heavy books without breaking. Safety for You and the Movers: Overloading a large box with heavy items creates a significant injury risk. A properly sized box is manageable and reduces the chance of back strain or dropped items. Efficiency in Packing and Stacking: Uniform, high-quality moving boxes are designed to be stacked securely in a moving truck. Using a jumble of random, ill-fitting boxes makes loading unstable and wastes valuable space. A Box for Every Belonging: The Prescott Moving Company System At Prescott Moving Company, we offer a full range of high-quality packing materials and, more importantly, the expertise to help you use them correctly. Our team can assess your needs and recommend the perfect box for every item in your home, from the heaviest paperweights to the most delicate glassware. Small Boxes (1.5 Cubic Feet) Often called a "book box," this is the heavyweight champion of the moving world. Its small size is intentional. Best For: Books, records, canned goods, tools, and other small, heavy items. Why It Works: The compact size prevents you from overloading it. A small box filled with books is heavy but manageable. Putting the same number of books in a large box would make it nearly impossible to lift safely and would likely cause the box to fail. Our Tip: Resist the temptation to use larger boxes for heavy items. Your back (and your movers) will thank you. Medium Boxes (3.0 Cubic Feet) This is the versatile workhorse of any move. It’s large enough to be useful for a wide variety of items but not so large that it becomes easy to overload. Best For: Kitchen items like small appliances, pots, and pans; toys; office supplies; and general home décor. Why It Works: It offers a great balance of size and strength. You can pack bulkier items without the box becoming excessively heavy. Our Tip: When packing a medium box, place heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top to create a stable center of gravity. Large Boxes (4.5 Cubic Feet) and Extra-Large Boxes (6.0 Cubic Feet) These boxes are designed for volume, not weight. They are perfect for items that take up a lot of space but don't weigh much. Best For: Linens, towels, blankets, pillows, lampshades, large stuffed animals, and bulky winter coats. Why It Works: They allow you to pack lightweight, awkward items efficiently. Filling a large box with heavy objects is a classic moving mistake that leads to broken boxes and potential injuries. Our Tip: Always check the weight of a large box as you pack. If it’s becoming difficult to push around, it’s too heavy. Specialty Boxes: The Key to Protecting Your Valuables Standard boxes can’t handle everything. For your most fragile, valuable, or awkwardly shaped belongings, specialty boxes are a necessity. Prescott Moving Company provides a full inventory of these essential materials. Dish Pack Boxes These are the unsung heroes of kitchen packing. They are constructed with heavy-duty, double-walled cardboard for maximum protection. Best For: Dishes, glasses, stemware, china, and other fragile kitchen items. Why It Works: The reinforced walls provide superior crush protection. Many come with optional cardboard cell dividers, which create individual compartments for glasses or other items, preventing them from clanking against each other. Our Tip: Wrap each item individually in packing paper before placing it in the dish pack. Stand plates and platters on their edge, never flat. Wardrobe Boxes Moving your closet has never been easier. These tall boxes feature a built-in metal bar, acting as a portable closet. Best For: Hanging clothes from your closet. Why It Works: You can transfer clothes directly from your closet to the box without taking them off the hangers. This saves an incredible amount of time on both ends of the move and prevents your clothes from getting wrinkled. The bottom of the box is also a great place to pack shoes or pillows. Picture & Mirror Boxes These telescoping boxes are designed to protect your wall art. Best For: Framed pictures, mirrors, and flat-screen TVs. Why It Works: The boxes can be adjusted to fit the exact dimensions of your item, providing a snug and secure fit. For larger pieces, you can fit two boxes together. The flat, protective design prevents scratches and cracks. Our Tip: For extra protection, wrap the item in a blanket or bubble wrap before placing it in the box. The Prescott Moving Company Packing Service Feeling overwhelmed? You don't have to do it alone. In addition to providing the best materials, Prescott Moving Company offers professional packing and unpacking services. Our trained team knows exactly how to wrap, cushion, and box every item in your home for maximum security. We bring all the necessary boxes and supplies, so you don't have to worry about a thing. Our packing experts are efficient and careful, ensuring that everything from your everyday dishes to your priceless antiques is prepared for a safe journey. We label every box clearly with its contents and designated room, which makes unpacking at your new home simple and organized. Choose a Partner for a Smarter Move The success of your move begins long before the truck arrives. It starts with a smart packing strategy and the right materials for the job. By choosing the correct boxes, you protect your belongings, ensure the safety of everyone involved, and create a more efficient process from start to finish. Let the experts at Prescott Moving Company take the guesswork out of packing. We have the knowledge, the materials, and the professional services to ensure your belongings are packed correctly and arrive at your new home safe and sound. Ready to plan a secure and efficient move? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free consultation and to learn more about our professional packing services and high-quality moving supplies. Meta Information Meta Title: Choosing the Right Moving Boxes | Prescott Moving Company Meta Description: Learn how to choose the right moving boxes for your belongings. Prescott Moving Company offers expert tips and high-quality packing supplies for a safe move.