What is Self Service Moving?
There are three types of moves that cover most moving scenarios. These are:
- Full service moves
- Self-service moves ('U-Pack, They'll Drive)
- Do-it Yourself moves (rent your own truck)
The self service moving option has seen its' popularity grow in recent years and has become a good choice for many consumers seeking a cost effective alternative that falls between a full service move and a do-it yourself move. There are two basic types of self-service moves. The first involves the use of a commercial trailer, which is transported from your current residence to your new residence. The second type of self-service move involves the use of special containers that you pack your items into, after which the containers are picked up and shipped to your new residence.
Unlike the services offered by a full service moving company, with a self service move you will be responsible for all of your own packing and loading. This will require you to purchase all of your own moving and packing supplies and manage all of the packing yourself. Many individuals contract for moving labor or packing services, which are cost effective ways to help handle the workload during the move. Of course, other individuals recruit friends and family members to assist them with their move.
The biggest advantage of the self service moving option over a do-it yourself move is that you will not be responsible for transporting your own household goods. This will be done by a licensed and professional driver handling a commercial vehicle.
Self service moving is normally only available when you are transporting your household goods out of state as the companies handing this service are licensed with the Department of Transportation (DOT), who has oversight for moves across state lines. Once the driver arrives at your new location, you will once again be responsible for the unloading of the truck and the unpacking of your boxes.
How do Self-Service Moving Companies Price their Services?
There are usually two ways in which self-service moving companies provide quotes. If the self-service moving company you use provides you with an empty trailer for your items, they will charge you based on the linear feet or cubic feet that you use within the trailer. Other self-service moving companies utilize specially designed containers that are built for long distance moves. The amount you will pay for the movement of these containers will depend on the number of containers that you use and how far the containers will be traveling. These containers area great option as you can be assured that your items will not be mixed up with items from another household and you can guarantee that the packing of the container meets your requirements before it leaves your residence.
When discussing self-service moving quotes, ask the companies in what manner they will be transporting your items and how their pricing works. They can help provide you with a good estimate based upon the size of your residence and the type of items that you will be transporting.
Why Consider Self-Service Moving?
The main incentive for individuals who select this moving option is to take advantage of the savings that they will likely gain over using a full service moving company. Because the individual who is moving is responsible for providing all of the supplies, packing, loading and unloading of their items, they will not pay the time, materials and labor expense that one would incur with a full service move. Another bonus is that the individual who is moving can ensure that their items are packed in the types of boxes that they prefer and in the particular manner that they choose. However, the range of costs can vary and we encourage consumers to look closely at both the self service and full service moving options before making their decision.
The second major incentive for using a self-service mover is that many people who are in the process of moving are not comfortable driving large trucks on the highways, especially if they need to cover long distances. With the heavy weights being carried by these commercial vehicles and their trailers, very moderate speeds would need to be maintained throughout the trip and the journey itself could easily stretch into multiple days or even a week. Additionally, if you have a larger residence, you may not be able to operate the size of vehicle needed to transport the items.
In some cases, the cost of a self-service move will be comparable to renting your own truck from a company like Budget (link here) and Penkse (link here), which are two of the largest and most reputable truck rental companies.
Potential Disadvantages of Self Service Moving
Many individuals who are moving grossly underestimate the amount of time and expense involved with packing their own items. Moving is a very specialized service and many items require special packing techniques and supplies to offer the maximum protection possible when transporting items. In any instance in which items are being moved across long distances, there is some risk of damage. Rushing through the packing process and not following proven packing techniques, increases the likelihood of damage considerably.
You will need to consider the trade-offs between the self-service options and just simply allowing a full service moving company to handle everything from beginning to end.
Some Questions for your Self-Service Movers
As we recommend with every move, you should clearly understand how your items will be insured. Self-service moving companies will offer various insurance options for you to consider. If you are moving valuables, it is important to understand that most coverage for basic moving insurance is based on a fixed reimbursement per pound. This will leave you inadequately insured for any valuable items that are not especially heavy (e.g. computer, stereo, televisions, etc.)
You should also understand how the moving company will be scheduling your move. Try to get a firm time and date for the delivery of your trailer or container to your residence. Most self-service moving companies that provide their own containers will give you up to 2 days to load and pack the container before they come to pick it up. Some companies can provide you with the exact delivery dates to your new residence and in other cases you will be provided with an approximate delivery date. The more questions you ask relative to scheduling and timing, the better prepared you will be when your moving date actually arrives.
Next Steps
The best way to make an informed decision about self-service moving (or any type of move) is to get multiple quotes from trusted and professional companies. We work with only large, national self-service moving companies who have excellent customer service reputations and who have each helped thousands of families undergo successful self-service moves. Please click here to see our self-service moving partners or to request free quotes.
By doing a thorough comparison of the self-service moving option to the services and costs associated with full service movers, will ensure you have a good understanding of the moving process as a whole and that you to make the right choice for you move.
