Moving is a stressful and challenging experience for anyone, but it can be even more complicated for military families. With the frequent moves and deployments standard in military life, finding a reliable and trustworthy moving company is crucial. This article will look at the best moving companies for military families based on reputation, affordability, and experience.
United Van Lines
United Van Lines is a well-known and highly respected moving company that has been in business for over 90 years. They have a dedicated military division helping military families with their moves. They offer various services, including packing, loading, and unloading. They have a team of experienced and trained professionals familiar with the unique challenges of military moves. They also offer military discounts and have a strong reputation for excellent customer service.
Mayflower
Mayflower is another highly respected moving company that has been in business for over 90 years. Their dedicated military moving division offers various services, including packing, loading, unloading, and storage options. They have a team of experienced and professional movers who are trained to handle the unique challenges of military moves. They also offer military discounts and have a reputation for excellent customer service.
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines has been a well-established moving company in business for over 90 years. They have a dedicated military moving division helping military families with their moves. They offer various services, including packing, loading, unloading, and storage options. They also have a team of experienced and trained professionals familiar with the unique challenges of military moves. They offer military discounts and have a reputation for excellent customer service.
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines has been a reputable moving company in business for over 85 years. Their dedicated military moving division offers various services, including packing, loading, unloading, and storage options. They have a team of experienced and trained professionals who are familiar with the unique challenges of military moves. They offer military discounts and have a reputation for excellent customer service.
Penske Truck Rental
Penske Truck Rental is famous for military families who prefer a do-it-yourself approach to moving. They offer a range of trucks and trailers suitable for moving households of all sizes and a range of moving supplies and equipment. They also offer military discounts and have a reputation for excellent customer service.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a moving company for a military move, several factors must be considered. These include:
- Reputation – Look for a moving company with a strong reputation for reliability and excellent customer service.
- Experience – Choose a moving company that has experience with military moves and is familiar with the unique challenges that they can present.
- Affordability – Compare prices and choose a moving company that offers competitive rates and military discounts.
- Services – Look for a moving company that offers a range of services, including packing, loading, unloading, and storage options.
- Insurance – Make sure that the moving company you choose offers adequate insurance coverage to protect your belongings during the move.
How to Calculate Moving Cost
Calculating moving costs can be daunting, especially if you’re moving for the first time. However, with some research and planning, you can estimate your moving expenses and avoid any surprises on a moving day. Here are some steps to help you calculate your moving costs:
- Determine the type of move you need
The first step in calculating moving costs is determining the type of move you need. Are you moving locally or long distance? Will you be moving or hiring a professional moving company? These questions help determine the approximate cost of your move.
- Create a moving budget.
Once you’ve determined the type of move you need, it’s time to create a moving budget. A moving budget will help you keep track of your expenses and ensure that you spend appropriately during the moving process. Consider all the expenses you may incur, including moving company fees, packing supplies, transportation, and other related expenses.
- Get moving quotes
If you plan to hire a professional moving company, getting quotes from several companies to compare prices and services is essential. You can obtain moving quotes online or by calling the moving companies directly. Ensure you provide accurate information about the size of your home, the distance of your move, and any special requirements you may have.
- Calculate moving company fees.
If you’re hiring a professional moving company, their fees will be a significant portion of your moving costs. Moving company fees can vary based on the distance of your move, the size of your home, and any additional services you may need, such as packing and unpacking. Ask about any extra fees, such as fuel surcharges or insurance costs.
- Estimate packing supplies costs.
Packing supplies can also be a significant expense during a move. Estimate the number of boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and other packing supplies you’ll need based on the size of your home and the number of belongings you’re moving. You can purchase packing supplies from a moving company or a local store.
- Consider transportation costs
If you’re moving long distances or to a different state, you must consider transportation costs, such as gas or airfare. You may also need to rent a moving truck if you plan to move. Estimate the gas or airfare and other related expenses to help you determine your total moving costs.
Moving is never easy, but it can be less stressful with the right moving company. When choosing a moving company for a military move, it’s essential to consider factors such as reputation, experience, affordability, and services. The five companies listed above are among the best moving companies for military families, but it’s essential to research and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.