You Move Me Indianapolis FAQs
General
Will movers pack and unpack for me?
Yes, most full-service moving companies offer packing and unpacking services for an extra fee. You can usually choose just packing, just unpacking, or both, and they’ll bring materials and do it for you. If you want to save money, you can also pack yourself and just have them handle loading/unloading.
What credentials should movers have?
When vetting a mover, make sure they have proper licensing and insurance — it’s the biggest sign they’re legitimate and will protect your belongings. For long-distance (interstate) moves in the U.S., reputable moving companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number that you can verify online; local moves may also require state-specific mover licenses.
Checking reviews, asking for references, and confirming any professional associations they belong to (like moving industry groups) adds extra assurance of quality service.
What is the best time of year to move?
The best time of year to move is usually late fall through early spring (October–April) because demand is lower and movers often offer better pricing and more availability. Summer (May–September) is the busiest and most expensive season, especially around weekends and end-of-month dates. If you can, aim for a weekday in the middle of the month for the best deal.
How do I know if I can trust a moving company?
You can identify a reputable moving company when it’s properly licensed and insured, provides a clear written estimate, and has consistent reviews across multiple sites. They should be transparent about fees, timelines, and valuation coverage, and answer your questions without pressure or vague promises.
What are common moving company scams?
Common moving company scams include bait-and-switch pricing, hostage load situations, and large upfront deposits with no service delivered. In a bait-and-switch scam, a mover provides a very low estimate, then raises the price after loading your belongings. Some fraudulent companies may also refuse delivery until additional fees are paid beyond the original agreement.
Long Distance Moves
Are gas and travel fees included in the cost of long-distance movers?
Often yes, but it depends on the company and pricing structure. For long-distance moves, reputable movers typically include fuel and travel charges in the overall estimate they give you (especially if it’s a binding or guaranteed price). Some companies may itemize them separately, so it’s good to ask if the estimate covers all transportation costs or adds fuel surcharges, driver travel time, or pickup/delivery travel fees on top.
Is the cost of long-distance moving based more on weight or distance?
The cost of long-distance movers is usually based more on weight (or volume) than distance, since heavier shipments take more space and require more labor to transport. Distance still matters, but it typically affects the price after the shipment size is factored in.
Local Moves
Is the cost of local movers charged hourly or by job?
The cost of local movers is usually charged hourly, especially for in-town moves. Some companies may offer a flat rate for smaller moves or special situations, but hourly pricing is the most common.
Full Service Moving Services
Do full-service moving companies handle packing and unpacking?
Yes, most full-service moving company options include packing and unpacking, either as part of the package or as an add-on you can choose. They’ll typically bring the supplies, pack your items securely, and unpack them at delivery if you request it. Always confirm what’s included in your estimate since packing services can change the total cost.
Do I need full-service movers or just help loading a truck?
Most people only need help loading a truck if they have already packed their belongings and arranged transportation. Full-service movers make more sense when you want professionals to handle packing, heavy lifting, furniture disassembly, and delivery from start to finish. The right choice depends on how much time, physical effort, and coordination you want to take on yourself.
Can full-service movers actually save me money in the long run?
Yes, full-service movers can save money in the long run by reducing the risk of damage, injury, and costly delays. Professional packing and handling can prevent broken items that would be expensive to replace. Full-service moving can also limit time off work, truck rental extensions, and last-minute supply purchases that often add up during a DIY move.
Packing Services
How does professional packing work?
Professional packing works by having trained movers box up your belongings using proper materials and organized methods before moving day. They typically bring boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and labels to protect items during transport. Fragile belongings are wrapped individually, heavier items are packed securely, and cartons are grouped by room for easier unloading.