A house move is mostly preparation
Moving a house across town takes a crew, a truck and a day, sometimes longer. What decides whether that day runs smoothly is mostly what happens before it: how well the mover understands what's going, how ready the house is, and how clearly both sides have agreed on the plan and the price.
The walk-through
A good moving company wants to see what's moving before giving a firm estimate. That can be an in-person visit or a video call where you walk the mover through every room, including the garage, attic, basement, closets, sheds and anything outside. Show everything. A forgotten garage full of tools or a basement storage room can add hours on the day, and change the truck size needed.
The walk-through should produce a written estimate that lists the rooms and major items, the crew size, the truck size, and how the price is calculated.
Crew and truck
The mover chooses the crew size and truck based on the volume of belongings, the distances to carry, stairs and the time available. A larger crew costs more per hour but can finish faster; a crew that's too small for a large house can run long and cost more in the end. Ask why they've chosen the crew size they have.
Protecting the house
Professional movers protect both homes: floor runners or coverings on hard floors and carpet, padding on banisters and door frames, and furniture wrapped in moving pads. Ask what protection they'll use, and walk through both homes with the crew lead at the start of the day to note any existing damage.
Disassembly and reassembly
Bed frames, dining tables with removable legs, desks, sectional sofas and some shelving often need to come apart to fit through doors and stack safely in the truck. Many movers include basic disassembly and reassembly; others charge for it. Bag and label the hardware, or ask the crew to. Complicated items, such as wall-mounted televisions, built-in shelving or crib conversions, may need extra time or a different trade.
Appliances
Moving a refrigerator, washer or dryer usually means disconnecting it first. Gas appliances should be disconnected and reconnected by someone qualified to work on gas lines. Ask the mover whether they disconnect appliances, and if not, arrange it ahead of time. Defrost and dry the refrigerator the day before.
What movers usually won't carry
Most moving companies won't carry flammable or hazardous items: gasoline, propane tanks, paint thinner, pool chemicals, fireworks, ammunition, and some cleaning products. Many also won't take plants, perishable food or pets. Valuables such as jewelry, cash, important papers and medications are best moved yourself. Ask for the mover's list.
Who's responsible if something breaks
Ask the mover what they're responsible for if something is damaged or lost, how claims are handled, and what options exist for more protection. Get the answer in writing before you book, and read it. Photograph valuable furniture before the move.
Moving-day plan
On the day, the crew lead usually walks through with you first. Point out what's going, what's staying and anything fragile or high-value. Keep one room or closet clearly marked as not moving. Be reachable by phone at both ends.
Questions to ask
- Can you do a walk-through, in person or by video, before giving an estimate?
- What crew and truck size will you send, and why?
- Is the price hourly or fixed, and what's included?
- How will you protect floors, doorways and banisters?
- Do you disassemble and reassemble furniture, and disconnect appliances?
- What are you responsible for if something is damaged, and how do claims work?