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Last Updated: Jun 19, 2024
Weigh the pros and cons of moving containers and full service moving companies to make smart relocation choices and ensure a hassle-free move.
Moving is scary. It requires careful planning and decision-making to move from your old home to your new one.
There are so many questions and nuances surrounding the idea of moving. In this article, we’ll tackle one of the biggest questions about moving: Should you use moving containers or a full-service moving company for your move?
There are pros and cons to each, but hopefully, by the end of this article, your decision will be clear.
A moving container is a portable storage unit or pod that is weatherproof and can be rented for moving or storage.
These containers come in various sizes to accommodate different volumes of items and are typically made of durable materials like steel or wood.
Full-Service moving is hiring a professional moving company to handle every facet of your move. The moving company takes care of all your worries, from packing and loading to transportation and unloading.
This option is suited well for individuals lacking the time or energy to tackle the packing process on their own, or those with large or valuable items that need specialized care.
They come to your home, pack your belongings, transport them to the new location, and unpack everything for you. Sounds great, right? It really is, although it’s on the pricier side.
Choosing between moving containers and full-service moving depends on your individual needs and budget.
Here are some of the key differences between the two:
Moving containers tend to be cheaper than full-service moving companies, since the moving companies handle everything from start to finish. The cost typically includes labor, transportation, packing materials, and other services for moving companies. On the other hand, moving containers can have additional costs like storage and transportation fees.
While moving containers offer flexibility in packing and loading, they do require more time and labor from the customer. Full-service moving offers the maximum convenience and time-saving benefits. Opt for a full-service move if you want to be stress free while moving and don’t care about price,
Using moving containers presents more risks compared to hiring a professional moving company because you are responsible for packing your belongings. You may lack training in moving specific items and you might not have adequate insurance coverage for your possessions.
Moving containers provide greater flexibility in scheduling and timing. Individuals who like to be hands-on can pack and load their belongings at their own pace, and can have more control over the arrangement of items. Full-service moving does lack the flexibility of a moving container because customers must abide by the moving company’s schedule and expertise.
Many moving container companies offer storage solutions as part of their services. Individuals can keep the container on-site for as long as needed. Some full-service moving companies offer storage options for short-term or long-term, but at an additional cost.
Using moving containers involves more hands-on participation from the customer which requires much more time and effort. But, with full-service moving, the professionals handle every aspect of labor. This includes packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and even unpacking.
Choosing the right moving option for you depends on a number of factors:
Here are some tips to help you decide:
On average, the cost of renting a moving container typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 for a local move and $2,000 to $7,000 for a long-distance move. The actual cost can vary depending on several factors like the size of the container, the distance of the move, the duration of the rental, etc.
The cost of full-service moving can vary depending on numerous factors, such as the distance of relocation, how much space your belongings take up, etc. Typically, full-service moving expenses range from $1,000 to $10,000 or higher, depending on the specifics of your move.
Yes, there may be additional fees associated with a full-service moving company like packing, long carry fees, stair fees, etc.
To get a more accurate estimate, request quotes from multiple moving container companies and ask about additional fees. Calling a moving container company is the best way to get the most accurate estimate.
Weigh all of your options carefully and do your research. If you want a more budget-friendly option go with a moving container. If you want to take the stress out of moving, choose a professional moving company.
Relocating can undoubtedly be a source of stress, but it doesn’t have to overwhelm you.
By understanding the differences between moving containers and full-service moving companies, you can decide the best option for you and your family. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, but we hope through this article you’ll be able to make an informed decision to make your move as efficient and stress-free as possible.
Meet Nik, a dedicated writer with a passion for real estate/moving blogs and, of course… writing. For the past two years, he’s crafted engaging content for a plethora of real estate firms and E-commerce companies, accumulating credibility and experience to be one of the best in the industry. Having relocated multiple times recently, Nik has utilized a plethora of moving companies, gaining valuable insight into both solo and professional moves. Through these experiences, he would recommend moving with professional services, as it lowers stress levels tremendously. When he’s not immersed in his writing, you can find him working on other entrepreneurial endeavors in the real estate/moving space.