CAN MOVERS PACK FOR YOU​? PCS TIPS

If you receive PCS orders, just know, that you don’t have to handle the move alone. Professional moving companies can pack up your home for you and even help you unpack your truck once you arrive at your new home. However, there are exceptions and many considerations for military families before signing a contract. Below, we’re taking a closer look at what using movers to pack your home looks like, with some key points for the military community to ensure a smooth PCS experience.

The Cost of Movers Packing for You

One of the biggest factors you need to consider when having movers pack for you, it’s the cost of doing so.

The key here is to consider that the more people you have moving, you may spend less time getting the job done, but you will have to cover the cost of their labor.

Additionally, fewer hands will take longer to get the job done, which means, you’ll have to pay for additional labor hours.

On average, families can expect to spend between $50 and $80 per hour, with services geared towards specifically packing typically falling on the lower end.

These figures are going to vary by location, the size of your home, the company you hire, and where you’re moving to, among other factors.

Keep in mind that if you only hire packers, you’re still going to need to pay for renting a truck and you may have to take on some of the responsibilities of moving on your own depending on the services you choose.

How to Save on Packing Costs

If you want to save on hiring movers to pack your belongings, there are some easy ways to do so that are practical and really add up:

• Remember that less is more. Get rid of unwanted/unneeded items as much as you can when you move.

• The longer movers are packing, the more you’re going to pay. By helping ahead of time and packing what you can on your own, you can save time and money.

• Always compare multiple moving companies to ensure that you’re receiving the best possible price. Ask around for quotes and find the best option in your market.

• If possible, move during the week and outside of peak moving season, which would be summer. Military families have different situations because PCS orders aren’t on your own time, so when duty calls, you have to move. Still, if you can plan accordingly, it can help you save more money in the process.

Items Movers Won’t Pack

The good news is that most moving companies are going to pack up just about anything practical. However, there are some things they won’t pack for you, nor should they.

Just like most things in life, there are plenty of exceptions that you’ll need to be responsible for yourself or discard when PCSing:

• Ammo has a special process you’ll need to speak to leadership on your bases about as well as research each state’s laws that you’ll be passing through when applicable.

• Firearms aren’t moved by everyone, however, if you’re dealing with a moving company that specializes in military moves, they may be able to accommodate.

• Explosives, fireworks, highly-flammable materials, and hazardous materials are also excluded. While this might sound extreme, some of these items include common items like paint, batteries, lighter fluid, and charcoal.

• Your medication should be handled by you personally.

• Plants may be excluded, though some companies will handle them for you. Be sure to ask movers about these services when comparing quotes.

• Pets can be moved depending on the company but often rely on companies that offer this specific service as its core focus.

• Finally, if you need a ride, you’ll need to figure it out on your own. No rides in the moving truck are available we’re afraid.

Full vs. Partial Packing Services

Depending on what you need, there are different packing services available that can handle everything you have to offer, or simply take care of some of the packing needs your family might have.

Regardless of which one you decide upon, packing services can help military families ease some of the stress of PCSing. Here’s how they break down:

Full Packing Services

Perfect for families that don’t want to deal with packing their homes, full service is going to be the way to go.

Although it costs more, movers will pack everything you have, minus exclusions, secure them for the move, and then unpack everything once you’ve arrived.

It’s a great service to consider, especially if you’re suffering from a physical setback that makes moving hard or if there are other safety concerns involved.

Partial Packing Services

Hiring partial services can help you out a lot but they aren’t as involved. Still, packing some of the items on your own is going to help you save on costs while making sure the other items you need securely transported are handled properly by professionals.

This is a common option for people who have complex or large, heavy items that may require special handling and attention.

What to Look for in Packing Services From Movers When PCSing

Who you choose to pack your home when moving matters and by doing a bit of research, military families can find the right company for the job:

• Always compare reviews just like you look at multiple quotes.

• Ask questions about proof of licensing and be sure the company you hire is legitimate and has proper insurance.

• Using packing services geared towards the military can also help you overcome potential issues that may arise, prevent them from happening altogether, and have an extra resource that understands the PCS process.

• Furthermore, movers with experience packing military-specific items will have a greater understanding of how to get everything where it needs to be safely and with respect.

Packing consistently finds itself listed as the worst part of moving by families. Delegating some of the stress by having movers pack for you can be a helpful method for families PCSing.