Local Moving (under 50 miles)

Find a mover near Palm Desert, CA

Find a mover near Palm Desert, CA

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Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

Do movers offer remote or virtual services?

Movers generally need to be present to do their job. But if you come across a mover’s profile that states they’re offering remote services, you can contact them to see what those services include. 

What is considered a local move vs. a long-distance move?

Local moves are among the most common moves. Unlike a long-distance move, a local move is typically less than 50 miles and does not cross state lines. Generally, a local move only takes one day, and movers tend to charge by the hour. 

The definition of a long-distance move may vary depending on the moving company. Generally, a long-distance considered to be any move of 400 miles or more. However, some say a long-distance move is over 50-100 miles. 

Local Move

A move under 50 miles

Long-Distance Move

A move over 50-100 miles or over 400 miles; may also be called an “interstate move” or “out-of-state move”

Out-of-State Move

A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “interstate move” or “long-distance move”

Interstate Move

A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “out-of-state move” or “long-distance move”

Intrastate Move

A move that begins and ends in the same state, typically beyond 50 miles

Interstate moves require additional legal preparation and will incur additional costs for distance, the amount and weight of your items, the preparation required and various other factors. Moving companies tend to do an initial weighing of the truck, which you should be present for.

A move that crosses state lines is considered an interstate move or an out-of-state move. Contrast this with an intrastate move, which begins and ends in the same state, but is typically above 50 miles. 

To determine whether your move is local or long-distance, contact the best movers in your area.

 

 

How much does it cost for long-distance movers?

Long-distance movers transport your belongings across the country for you. No more renting a trailer and road-tripping from state to state with your entire house hitched to your bumper. Long-distance movers make the move happen so you can fly to your new home, suitcase in hand, and wait for your furniture to arrive. Nationally, the average price range for long-distance movers is $1,490-$2,230. The distance you are moving and the number of cubic feet the movers have to transport will both affect cost. Another factor in long-distance moving costs is whether you choose to pay for an exclusive move or a consolidated move.

In an exclusive move, which is more expensive, your belongings are the only cargo on the moving truck. The movers travel directly to your new house and deliver your belongings on a scheduled day. A consolidated move is more affordable because the movers transport your belongings along with those of other people, saving them time and gas — which means you save money. The downside is that your belongings typically arrive with a two-week delivery window rather than on a prescheduled day. Read reviews to make sure you can trust the company with your possessions to ensure a peaceful moving process.

Can you move furniture by yourself?

You might be able to move smaller items like nightstands, small desks, chairs and small tables by yourself. However, it’s best to get a professional mover near you to move larger items such as couches, dressers, armoires and televisions. 

If you do decide to move furniture by yourself, carefully lift and lower items and take your time.

Is it cheaper to move your stuff or buy new stuff?

It often makes more financial sense to buy new stuff when you have the chance to sell furniture to offset the cost. The cost of moving your current furniture can sometimes be more than buying new things, particularly if the furniture is large or cumbersome to move. You can sell furniture online, or make a furniture donation and deduct it from your taxes (if it qualifies as a charitable contribution). Some places near you may even offer free furniture pickup when you choose to donate. 

If you have valuable furniture that would be costly to replace, however, it may be cheaper to move them. To find out which option is best for you, contact professional movers in your area to receive quotes and estimates.

Should I buy moving insurance?

Your homeowners or renters insurance policy may or may not protect your belongings if they get lost or damaged during a move. If you’re moving valuable items, or if you’re moving a great distance, it could be a good idea to invest in moving insurance.

Interstate movers are required to offer you full value protection and released value protection to help reimburse you in case of damage or loss. If you’re moving within your state, check with your state’s consumer affairs agency to see if your state has rules and requirements regarding moving insurance and valuation coverage.

How much do you tip movers?

It’s recommended that you tip your movers individually around $4 to $5 per hour. For example, if a team of four movers spends a half-day (four hours) on your move, tip each mover $20. Or, some people tip 5% to 10% of their total bill for small moves and 15% to 20% for larger moves.

If you’re moving across state lines, you may hire different crews to load and unload your goods. In that case, divide the tips between both crews. It’s also a good rule of thumb to add a bit extra for tipping movers if you have special circumstances that have made the move harder, like a spiral staircase or an exceptionally heavy sofa. 

How do you move large pieces of furniture?

Moving large furniture can be done with help from the best movers in your area and careful planning. First, get an idea of how much the furniture weighs and how much each mover can manage. The next step is figuring out the path the furniture will take as it exits its point of origin and makes its way to its new home. Professional movers then use dollies, furniture protectors and personal safety gear for a safe, smooth move. 

How do I protect my furniture when moving?

To protect furniture when moving, get furniture protectors. These will help cushion accidental impacts that may occur while making your way through tight spaces. You can also use furniture sliders for hardwood floors, which can make moving heavy or awkward furniture across your floors a lot easier than lugging it all the way. 

A professional mover near you will likely have these and other moving equipment to ensure your furniture remains intact and doesn’t damage your new — or old — home.

Can you hire movers to move one item?

Yes, you can hire movers to move one item. Single-item movers are usually more than happy to give you a quote, which will likely be based on a few factors.

One of the primary things to take into consideration is the number of movers it takes to move one item. For instance, if you want to move one item of furniture, it may take several movers — particularly if it is a challenging move involving multiple floors.

Contact single-item movers near you to find out what services they offer, and get free estimates.

Reviews for Palm Desert movers
Denis C.
Outstanding service! Very professional took extreme care with moving our furniture. Would highly recommend for moving or hauling any items.
Js DeliveryJs Delivery
Shauna H.
This firm is hands down the absolute BEST moving firm I've ever used. They communicated very clearing, arrived on time with a team of 3 gentlemen who took great care in all items being moved. The move in to my new house was a dream - they placed items where I needed them, setup the bed, etc. Extremely professional team that I would highly recommend and will utilize for any future moves.
Moober Moving SolutionsMoober Moving Solutions
Jennifer A.
Great movers! I would recommend again!
Js DeliveryJs Delivery
Nic W.
Pat was great! This was my first major move from my home and I was a little hesitant hiring someone to move all of my things for me. Pat was excellent from the initial phone call. He was very communicative and accommodating for anything I requested. He made this move go so smoothly. Pat took his time and care packing all of my things. If I ever move again, Pat is number one on my list without a question.
Pro Delivery & Towing - Main ProfilePro Delivery & Towing - Main Profile
Parker K.
Very professional and on time!! I would definitely recommend Utile Movers.
Utilē MoversUtilē Movers
Debbie G.
The movers were very slow. They were also a third party not the people I thought I hired.
Move Central Moving & StorageMove Central Moving & Storage
Mary L.
Answered my request right away. We determined they couldn’t service our area and that helped me move on.
On The Move Relocation SpecialistsOn The Move Relocation Specialists
Crystal C.
Appreciate that I could move a big couch in short notice, and Ray had time to help me with a surprise request.
King of KingsKing of Kings
Michael A.
Jesse and team did a great job moving furniture to Our outside shed. Good communication skills, trustworthy, and Highly recommended.
Js DeliveryJs Delivery
Saba C.
Despite all the set backs hay De Andre was faced with, he made our move happen. Super happy with his company!
N MY LANE MOVING COMPANY LLCN MY LANE MOVING COMPANY LLC
Kyleah M.
Dre went above and beyond helping me move my furniture! Very professional and reasonably priced. He replied to my messages quickly, and was able to get the job done faster than I predicted. Highly recommend! Will definitely be using again.
N MY LANE MOVING COMPANY LLCN MY LANE MOVING COMPANY LLC
Vileena K.
My mom told me to give Ray the best review - there was a change of plans and she needed someone the same day to help move a sofa in the afternoon. Ray not only followed up with us quickly but showed up on time. My mom was impressed with his professionalism and dependability. In addition, he was able to move the old sofa out and get it to a church where breastfeeding mothers would be able to breastfeed in a more comfortable setting. Ray was very reasonable with the pricing. She was thrilled to find out he provides a range of services as well. We wholeheartedly recommend Ray for his services, thoughtfulness and follow through.
King of KingsKing of Kings
Kim K.
We didn’t end up using Moober only because my roommate had already sorted out a local mover closer to where our new house was. However, they were incredibly professional and responsive to all my questions. Great customer service is an early sign of good work So wanted to make sure I shared that.
Moober Moving SolutionsMoober Moving Solutions
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