What to Expect When Hiring Professional Movers: A Complete Guide

If you've never hired professional movers before, you might wonder what the experience is like. This guide walks you through every step of the process—from your first quote to the final box being placed in your new home.

Is Professional Moving Right for You?

When to Consider DIY

• You're an energized minimalist with fewer belongings

• Everything fits in your car or a small trailer

• You have friends willing to help (and you're willing to pay in pizza)

• You're moving within a very short distance

When to Ship by Mail

• You're moving long-distance (out of province) and traveling by plane or train

• You only have a few boxes or a few large items

• You can minimize fragile items and ship before you travel

When to Hire Professional Movers

• You're a family or anyone with accumulated belongings

• You want to save time, energy, and stress

• You have heavy furniture, valuable items, or specialty pieces

• You'd rather avoid the physical labor and logistics

Professional movers have the experience and equipment to transport your belongings safely. They handle the heavy lifting, loading, and unloading—often saving you from potential injuries and costly damages.

The Moving Process Step-by-Step

Step 1: Getting Your Quote

Reach out for a free moving estimate online or by phone. A Move Coordinator typically responds within 48 hours to discuss your needs and provide an accurate quote.

What they'll want to know:

• Your current and new addresses

• Approximate size of your home/belongings

• Any specialty items (pianos, gun safes, fragile antiques)

• Your preferred moving date

• Any additional services needed (packing, storage, etc.)

Step 2: Booking Your Move

Once you're ready to proceed, your Move Coordinator handles the scheduling and sends confirmation of your moving day. They'll coordinate all the details so you don't have to.

Step 3: The Pre-Move Call

About 48-72 hours before your move, the crew leader will call to:

• Confirm the arrival time window

• Review any special instructions

• Answer last-minute questions

Step 4: Moving Day Arrival

When the crew arrives, they'll:

• Explain billing and payment options

• Review insurance coverage options

• Walk through the plan for the day

• Identify any items requiring special care

Step 5: Optional Packing Services

If you've booked professional packing, the movers will carefully pack and label your boxes. They'll ask for your guidance on organization and any special handling requirements.

Step 6: Loading the Truck

Your furniture and belongings are safely loaded with proper protection. Pro tip: Items you'll need first at the new home should go in last—tell your movers what's most urgent.

Keep an essentials box in your own car with:

• Medications

• Important documents

• Phone chargers

• Toiletries

• Change of clothes

• Snacks and water

Step 7: Unloading at Your New Home

At your new location, movers will:

• Place floor runners to protect your floors

• Take belongings to the correct rooms (based on your labeling)

• Reassemble furniture if requested

• Finalize the bill

Step 8: Post-Move Feedback

After your move, you'll receive an automated survey to evaluate all aspects of the experience. Your feedback helps improve the service for future customers.

Your Role on Moving Day

Do: Stay Present and Available

Be on-site or easily reachable for questions and document signing. You can run errands, but make sure the crew can contact you if needed.

Do: Point Out Special Items

Speak up about fragile items, heirlooms, or antiques that need extra care. The movers are professionals, but they can't know everything about your belongings.

Do: Direct Traffic at the New Home

Stand near the entry at your new home to direct movers where each box and piece of furniture goes. Since they don't know your room labels, you're the guide.

Don't: Hover or Over-Direct

Let the professionals work. Too much direction can slow things down and create safety issues. Trust their expertise.

Don't: Forget About Pets and Children

Seclude pets in a single room away from the action—open doors and heavy items create hazards. Consider a babysitter for young children during the move.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Experience

1. Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room

2. Create a floor plan of your new home to share with movers

3. Clear pathways in both homes before the crew arrives

4. Have cash on hand for tipping if you choose to do so

5. Stay hydrated and take breaks—moving day is long for everyone

6. Be flexible with timing—unexpected situations can arise

7. Inspect before signing the final paperwork

What to Look for in a Moving Company

Before booking, ensure your movers are:

• Reputable - Check reviews and ask for references

• Insured - Proper liability coverage protects your belongings

• Experienced - Ask about their training and specialties

• Transparent - Clear pricing with no hidden fees

• Professional - Uniformed crews, clean trucks, proper equipment

A free, detailed quote is the first sign of a quality moving company. They should ask enough questions to give you an accurate estimate, not a lowball number that grows on moving day.

The Bottom Line

Hiring professional movers transforms a stressful life event into a manageable (and even pleasant) experience. You'll save your back, your time, and probably some money when you factor in the cost of potential damages, truck rentals, and pizza for reluctant friends.

Know what to expect, understand your role, and let the professionals handle the heavy lifting. Your job is to be available, communicate clearly, and enjoy the excitement of your new home.