Should I Rent a Moving Trailer or Hire Movers?
If a big or small move is on the horizon, you’re likely faced with this question: “will a moving trailer do the job or is a moving company the better choice?” Obviously, the size of your move and your overall budget will be key factors when it comes down to making the call. Let’s look at a few other pros and cons that might also help you lock down that big decision.
A List of Pros for the Moving Trailer Option
The first pro comes to mind. A moving trailer is the more affordable choice. It’s a bones-minimal approach to packing and making your big move. Generally speaking, this also means relying on the help of friends and family and possibly co-workers if you’re dealing with a business move.
Another win here is the fact that you will have absolute control over how your belongings are packed, transported and then unpacked. A personal, invested approach to a residential or commercial move will often be the only choice for many. If relying on the professionalism of strangers is something you’re not ready to commit to, then a moving trailer is an appealing option.
Is the scheduling of your move an issue? Maybe you need to vacate a property quickly or you might have a little more flexibility when it comes to moving out or moving in. If you need to hurry or take more time, then a moving trailer allows for that flexibility.
The Downside of a Moving Trailer
The first con is evident. This is serious “grunt” work. You will also likely note the hesitation on a friend’s face before they cough up that smile and say, “Sure, I’ll help you move.” When you think packing and loading has just about wiped you out, there is then the matter of driving and unpacking.
This leads to the next issue. No matter how well organized the move, it’s very time consuming. People will have to either take time off work or use up a weekend and neither is an attractive option.
Can you drive a large truck or pull a large trailer? Transportation might be an issue. Also, keep in mind that the transport of your belongings won’t be properly insured. If there’s damage to your items during the move, those items will not be recoverable unless you personally replace them out of pocket. Overall, a moving trailer is the less expensive choice, but it can also spawn more headaches than expected.
The Professional Movers Highlight Reel
The pros of hiring a professional mover are easily visualized. You see it in your mind. Leaving all that heavy lifting and organizing to others is a very real matter of convenience. As well, professional movers know how to get the job done. It’s what they do and they do it every day.
This leads to the next positive on our list. Professional movers are experts in the field. Having a problem moving that couch into or out of a tight space? Professional movers know how to work and maneuver furniture and other large items with ease.
Professional movers also know how to properly secure your belongings while they are in transport. While that might sound like something you, too, could easily do, you’d be amazed at how easy it is for a mirror or an heirloom to snap, crack or break when it’s not absolutely secured during a bumpy move.
Are you insured against possible breakage during a residential or commercial move? A properly accredited moving company will be licensed and insured. It’s just too easy to lose sight of how important this really is, especially when it comes to a move that includes high value or sentimental items.
There’s also the matter of saving time. Competent movers can move you into your new home or office in a more timely manner. This is especially important if you’re relocating from one office to the next. Limited downtime during a move will be a key factor for your business and staff.
Is There a Downside to Hiring Professional Movers?
A professional move is a big operation. You can be sure that professional movers are well trained when it comes to protecting your belongings as they are loaded and unloaded. The transportation process also involves properly securing your items with the utmost care.
This kind of attention generally means that hiring professional movers will be more costly than relying on free labor from family and friends. However, those costs come with the aforementioned benefits. It’s just a matter of understanding your overall moving budget and what can be afforded.
You will also lose some control over how your belongings are packed and unpacked. Again, this will fall under the purview of the hired help. Once your professional movers are on-site, your job will mostly involve stepping out of the way.
What about your schedule? If you have to move out quickly or you’re in a position to take your time, then a professional moving company might not be your best choice. Professional movers generally keep to tight schedules. This means you will likely need to schedule your move around their availability. In some cases, that can be a bit of a deal breaker.
Which is the Best Moving Option for You?
There are a variety of factors to consider when it comes to choosing between a moving trailer and a professional moving company. Right away, we all know that money is the key component. Can you afford the more professional approach or are you more comfortable doing it yourself?
There’s also the matter of how far you are going. Long distance moves suggest that you need it done in one haul. That’s when the convenience of a professional moving company can make a huge difference.
What about your own availability to get the job done? If you commit to moving yourself, keep in mind how much work is involved packing, moving and then unpacking your possessions, including large items and furniture. It’s a lot to take in, even with help from family or friends.
If you need answers to questions about your next big move or if you’re simply looking for a free moving quote, reach out to IMS Relocation. Our moving professionals have seen and done it all. Your smooth, stress-free move is just a call away.