Many homeowners are already planning relocations for the 2025 calendar year, making the next 12 months some exciting ones! However, a lot of work goes into a move, and there's several things to prepare for or research ahead of time. The experts at A. Frisella Moving and Storage Services should know, we've been St. Louis' premier moving company since 1914—that's 111 years of trusted service and flawless relocations! Below are some of the most popular questions we receive from homeowners, and our advice on how to proceed for your 2025 move.
How Far in Advance Should I Book My Move?
It's always a good idea to give yourself enough time to properly organize your relocation, but the amount of time needed to do that will vary depending on different aspects of your household move. If you're planning a local move, two to four weeks should be a sufficient amount of time to plan, pack, and pick a moving company. For long-distance relocations, two to three months is probably a better idea, as you'll have more items on your to-do list.
Another consideration is the time of year you're planning your move. Moving in the peak season, which is between May and October, will be significantly busier for moving companies, so you may want to reach out to them earlier than if your move is planned for the off season.
What Should I Look for When Hiring a Moving Company?
Not all moving companies are going to be able to deliver the exact solutions you need. You'll want to ensure right off the bat that you're working with legitimate movers, so the very first thing you should look for include license, insurance, and bonding. If a mover can present all three of these, it's a sign that they are an ethical and professional moving company.
Just because a moving company is legitimate doesn't mean it provides top-quality service, though. Check on the reputation of the mover by consulting sources like:
- Customer Reviews
- BBB Rating or Accreditation
- ProMover Status with the ATA MSC
- Zero Complaints Against Mover on FMCSA Website
How is Pricing Calculated for Moving Services?
There are many items that factor into the rate given to you by a moving company, including labor, transportation, fuel and packing materials. From here, the rate may further be based on the distance to your end destination—the further your relocation, the higher the rate.
If you opt-in for additional services, like furniture reassembly or custom crating for heirlooms, you can expect these to affect your final rate as well. Movers should always provide customers with a written estimate that has each line item listed and the associated cost of each.
What Items Cannot Be Moved by Professionals?
Oftentimes, homeowners are surprised to hear that there are some items that professional moving and storage companies are not able to transport. Because certain household goods pose a risk while in transport, such as hazardous materials or perishable items, moving companies won't load them in the back of the moving truck, including:
- Ammunition
- Fire Extinguishers
- Spray Paint
- Paint Thinner
- Some Cleaning Products
- Nail Polish
- Fresh Produce
- Open Food Containers
- Plants
What Insurance Options are Available for My Move?
When you have your entire household of belongings being loaded and unloaded, assembled and disassembled, packed and unpacked, it's wise to opt-in for some insurance coverage in the event that something breaks, gets damaged, or goes missing.
First, check with your homeowner's insurance provider. Oftentimes, this type of insurance already covers aspects of your relocation, such as theft from the back of the moving truck or damage to belongings as a result of an auto accident involving the moving truck.
Most moving companies will also provide different types of protection. Ask your movers about their options, which usually include:
- Released Value Protection: This is partial coverage that is less expensive but covers less damage per pound.
- Full Value Protection: This is full coverage that may cost more up front but allows for full reimbursement for items that are broken, damaged, or lost.
If your moving company does not have options that appeal to you, third-party insurance is always available for residential relocations, as well.
As agents of Bekins Van Lines, A. Frisella Moving and Storage has the network, resources, and equipment to complete seamless moves of any distance, including interstate relocations. Get in touch with our BBB-accredited and A+ rated business today for a free estimate on our household moving services and to hear more.
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