Your Top Moving Questions Answered: Expert Tips for a Stress-Free Move in 2025

Is a relocation in store for you this year? If so, you might have a few questions about the moving process and how to find a trustworthy residential moving company. The professional Chicago movers at Pickens-Kane are here to help. Below are some common moving questions and answers to help you get your 2025 relocation off to a great start!

How far in advance should I book my move?

Ideally, you should book a mover as soon as your move is certain. That way, you can secure the mover of your choice, even during peak moving season. If you want to wait, it’s best to hire a moving company at least two months in advance.

What should I look for when hiring a moving company?

You want to be certain that the moving company you choose is fully qualified and able to handle your specific relocation requirements.

The most important thing to look for is a license. Licensed moving companies meet strict standards and are required to carry insurance. Insurance protects you against liability if a mover is hurt on your property, and you can receive reimbursement for any items that are lost, damaged, or destroyed during the move.

From there, check for professional affiliations, read customer reviews, and verify that the mover provides the service you need, such as long-distance moving or specialized moving capabilities.

How is pricing calculated for moving services?

The method used to calculate moving costs depends on whether you are moving locally or long distance. Local relocation is priced by the hour, so the cost depends on how long your move takes and the size of the moving crew. Long-distance moves are priced by weight and mileage. 

Additional factors that affect relocation pricing include whether you choose partial or full-service moving and specialized moving requirements.

What items cannot be moved by a professional moving company?

You can receive a comprehensive list of banned items from your moving company. In general terms, movers will refuse to handle flammables and explosives, pressurized chemicals, corrosives, pesticides, perishable foods, and live plants.

Do I need to be present on moving day?

Most movers insist that you are present on moving day. This allows you to supervise and direct the moving crew as needed and receive answers to any questions that you have. If you cannot be there, designate a trusted representative to be there in your place.

What insurance options are available for my move?

There are generally two insurance options available when you hire a moving company. The first is released-value protection. This option is required by law for all licensed moving companies and provides partial reimbursement for items that are damaged or lost during the move. This coverage is included in the price of your move. Full valuation coverage increases the price of your move but ensures reimbursement for the full, current value of affected items.

How do I handle last-minute changes to my moving plan?

Contact your mover right away to discuss the changes you need to make. Be specific about these changes and understand that last-minute changes can be difficult to accommodate. This could increase the cost of your move. If you need to cancel your relocation, call your mover to discuss their cancellation policy.

At Pickens-Kane, we do our utmost to provide our customers with a low-hassle moving and storage experience, and this includes providing expert guidance every step of the way. Find out more about how we can assist with your move or get answers to additional questions you have by contacting us today!