Moving is quite an adventure, but when you’re taking both your wheels and a favorite recliner, things can get a bit… well, interesting. It’s double the trouble, but luckily, there are plenty of moving companies that move cars and furniture in one go. So, if you’re gearing up for a move that involves more than just the usual boxes and bubble wrap, here’s everything you need to know.
The average US citizen moves around 11.7 times in their life. However, it seems like relocating to another state is no less of a head-scratcher, no matter how many moving hacks you’ve got under your belt.
There’s always a new, more efficient way to handle furniture, boxes, and all of that bubble wrap. That’s where a professional relocation company enters the picture, swooping in like real-life heroes to make the whole process a lot smoother. While you’ve maybe moved a couple of times, it’s literally their daily grind – name any household item you can think of, and they know exactly how to handle it.
But here’s the kicker – for a long time, the vehicle has been left out of the equation. Yet, with 91.7% of households owning at least one four-wheeler, it’s an integral part of our daily life, and most of us want it to come along for the journey. So, why not hire movers who are experienced with shipping cars in the USA too?
Picture this – your prized ride is gently loaded onto a transport truck while the favorite furniture pieces are carefully wrapped and secured. That’s the kind of expert care you can expect from a professional company that offers both services.
It might not be your first time moving out, but these pros have been through the whole ordeal so many times they’ve stopped counting a long time ago. You can sit back, relax, and let them do the heavy lifting!
Relocating across the country can put quite a dent in your wallet, but a two-in-one deal can actually save you some serious cash. By bundling the two services and hiring the same company, you can often get a better deal than if you were to hire movers and a separate car shipping company. Plus, you’ll save time and hassle by dealing with just one team. It’s a win-win for both the relocation budget and sanity!
Finding the right business to hire is a bit like dating – you want someone reliable, trustworthy, and who won’t disappear with your stuff! So, as you research different options, make sure to check if each potential prospect is properly licensed.
First things first, every legit company should have a USDOT number, issued by the US Department of Transportation. It’s like a badge of honor, proving they’re up to snuff with federal regulations.
Next, you need to head to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. It’s the go-to for making sure the company you’re eyeing plays by the rules. With around 18,000 businesses in the game, there are bound to be some relocation scams along the way. But with just a few clicks, you can make sure all that suspicious stuff stays far away from the cross-country move you’re undertaking.
Before diving into the vast ocean of possibilities, why not start close to home? Ask friends and family for moving companies that move cars and furniture recommendations. They’ve got your back and will tell you straight if certain movers are worth considering. Plus, firsthand experiences are gold when it comes to making the right choice.
Don’t stop at recommendations – dive into the treasure trove of online reviews. Reading what previous customers have to say can give you a clearer picture of what to expect from movers. Look for reviews not just on their website but on multiple platforms as well to get a well-rounded picture.
Once you’ve settled on a long-distance moving company that moves cars and furniture, let’s go further. The prized ride is about to embark on its own little road trip adventure, and while the pros will handle most of it, you still have a few tasks to take care of. Here’s how to prepare a car for shipping:
With a professional company such as USA Auto Transport, you should get two car shipping options. The first one, the open trailer, is the more common and affordable choice. This is a large truck that carries several vehicles at once, like the ones you see on the highway. It’s efficient and cost-effective, but the car will be exposed to the elements. Still, it’s more than enough for a standard vehicle.
The second option, an enclosed trailer, offers maximum protection from weather and road debris, making it the perfect choice for classic, high-value, or luxury vehicles. While it’s more expensive, the peace of mind knowing the car is safe from harm can be well worth the extra cost.
However, the choices don’t end at open vs. enclosed carriers. When it comes to the actual delivery, you’ve got terminal-to-terminal and door-to-door auto transport. The first option involves dropping off and picking up the four-wheeler at designated locations like shipping terminals. Naturally, this is cheaper, but you will have to put in a bit more effort (driving to and from the terminal).
On the other hand, door-to-door is like the VIP service – the team will pick up the car from your current home and deliver it right to the new driveway. It can be a bit pricier, but it’s a whole lot more convenient.
Let’s face it – moving heavy furniture is no picnic. But with professional moving services, you can kick back and let the pros do the heavy lifting. It’s the ultimate stress-buster, leaving you free to focus on decorating the new place and getting settled in.
Many companies offer full packing services, handling most (or all) of belongings, stretching far beyond just furniture. They bring their own packaging materials, too. But if you’re more of a DIY enthusiast, you’ll need to gather a few essentials. Here are the packing materials you’ll need:
Creating a relocation inventory might not sound exactly exciting, but it’s a game-changer for keeping track of stuff. This list will help you know what you’ve packed and where it’s going, making unpacking a breeze.
Simply jot down each item as you pack it and label the boxes accordingly. This way, you’ll avoid the dreaded “lost box” scenario and have everything you need right at your fingertips when you reach the new home.
When all belongings arrive, it’s time to put on the detective hat and inspect everything closely. For the furniture, check for any scratches, dents, or broken pieces. For the car, walk around it and look for any new dings or other damages. Don’t forget to pop the hood and check for any internal issues that might have arisen during the move.
If you do find new damages, don’t panic. Remember, you’ve got photos to prove it, so take new ones of the affected areas and note them down. Then, contact the relocation company immediately to report the damage. Provide them with documentation and photos as evidence. Most reputable companies have insurance to cover such incidents and will guide you through the claims process.
Wrapping up the big move doesn’t have to be a Herculean task. With the right partner that can handle all aspects of the move, you can dodge the heavy lifting and the relocation stress. Just imagine, while someone else is hauling the couch and ensuring your ride arrives in mint condition, you can focus on the funnier parts of the whole ordeal, like setting up the new place.
Ready to kick it off on the right foot? USA Auto Transport has got you covered. From expertly handling the furniture to safely transporting vehicles, we offer comprehensive services tailored to your needs. Contact us today to get started and let us take care of the heavy lifting so you can enjoy the exciting journey ahead.
