Moving Wars: Self-Service vs. Full-Service

Posted on July 20, 2011

When it comes to moving, the age old question has always been: to do it or not to do it? Deciding between moving yourself and hiring professional movers really comes down to determining exactly what you’re willing to do yourself and what you need help with. Weighing the pros and cons of self-service and full-service moving options is your best bet for making the decision that works for your move and your lifestyle. Luckily for you, the moving experts at American Van Lines have laid out everything you need to know.

Either Way, You’re in Great Company

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that more than 15 percent of the population relocates every year. That means that over 45 million people are annually swapping homes. Yes, that’s a lot of moving. The majority of these moves take place in the spring and summer, when the weather is warm and there is time off from work and school. No matter when you move, just remember that millions upon millions of Americans are experiencing the same tough decisions and general angst that you are.

So what should you do? Don’t panic. Read on.

The Allure of the Self Move

There is some innate American romanticism associated with the idea of packing up your most precious belongings in a rented trailer you’ve hitched to the back of your station wagon and setting off to find your destiny in some new part of town. For the self-made man, the self-made move still has that dreamy allure. For everyone else, it’s the affordable alternative to outsourcing the job to a moving company.

In terms of cost, doing anything yourself can mean saving a bundle. As long as you don’t mind rolling up your shirt sleeves and breaking a sweat, moving yourself means you’ll also have the luxury of control. Moving companies may sometimes fall behind schedule, or show up when you least expect them. When you’re trusting your move to no one but yourself, you’ll always keep your own schedule.

Self moving has evolved beyond the trailer and station wagon scenario. Today you can rent a variety of moving vehicles and mobile storage units to be moved at your convenience. If you’re ready to invest in a rental truck, you’ll first need to decide on an appropriate size. Here’s a general rule of thumb:

• 10 feet: studio apartment
• 14 feet: 1-2 bedrooms
• 17 feet: 2-3 bedrooms
• 24 feet: 3-4 bedrooms
• 26 feet: 4+ bedrooms

Remember, the cost of renting a truck doesn’t end at the rental office. You’ll have to pay for all of the gas you use along the way, and moving trucks aren’t really built for getting great mileage.

Like other home renovation projects, moving yourself may result in unexpected costs. You may find yourself less prepared to make a self move than you felt before you started packing. You should also probably plan for the job to take more time than you initially expected. You can always count on delays and unexpected problems.

Getting Professional Help

Hiring a moving company may be less romantic, but it is usually the more efficient option. Reputable moving companies employ movers who are experienced, well-trained and ready to pack and transport your possessions quickly and safely. Proper packing and transportation techniques mean you’ll significantly reduce the risk of finding any personal items broken or damaged when it comes time to unpack.

If you’re moving on a deadline, hired helpers can make sure you arrive at your destination on time. Professional movers have access to the equipment necessary to make relocating swift and efficient. Having professional drivers also means you won’t have to navigate a large, unfamiliar vehicle across town or across the country.

Moving certain items can be more difficult and time consuming than others. For example, if you own a piano, pool table or hot tub, you’ll need the know-how and training of specialty movers to successfully transport these items. Of course, you can move these items yourself (American Van Lines has tips for moving them all), but there is always a risk of expensive damages. Most moving companies come prepared with specially trained movers who can transport these items without a problem.

On the flip side, moving with professional help can be pricey beyond what your budget can stand. With most moving companies, there is room for negotiation, but there is always a possibility that your bill will arrive with unexpected fees added on. When you entrust your personal belongings with strangers, you’re making yourself vulnerable to scams. You should always conduct extensive research on any moving company you consider hiring before you hand over your credit card or sign any contracts.

Striking a Balance

A new, third option is growing in popularity among people looking to blend the price of a truck rental with the convenience of professional movers. “You pack, we drive” companies are popping up all over the country. These companies will drop off a trailer or mobile storage unit at your home. You’ll have as much time as you need to fully pack up your home and move all of your belongings into the trailer or storage unit. Then, the company will return, pick up your stuff and transport it all to your new home.

This option is usually comparable in price to a self move, but it means you don’t have to do the driving yourself. If you opt for a company that offers mobile storage units, you’ll usually be able to store that unit in a secure facility until you’re ready to unload your items into your new home. You’ll still have to do the heavy work, but you can set your own pace and save on the final costs.

Making Peace with Your Move

Remember – moving should fit your lifestyle. When you’re deciding how to move, choose the option you feel most comfortable with. Though there are a lot of details to keep in mind when making any decision concerning your move, choosing the option that best matches your priorities is always a safe bet. Is it most important that your move be affordable? Timely? Easy? In your control? There’s a moving option that fits your needs.