Full-service movers do pretty much everything. They'll send a team to pack everything in your house into boxes, disassemble beds and other items as needed, load the truck at origin, and unload it at destination. You can even ask them to unpack and haul away the boxes at your new home. Ask about all of these services when you talk to a company — some may cost extra.
Ensure the company you select will supply certified weight tickets — you'll need these to claim your reimbursement, and your TO can tell you the current requirements for how they need to be annotated.
Vet the company before you sign anything
Hiring a commercial mover means trusting them with everything you own, so vet them carefully. Official DoD guidance now specifically warns about “rogue operators” — movers who quote low, then inflate the price after loading your belongings, or hold your property until you pay more. Before you sign anything:
- Look the company up on the FMCSA's Protect Your Move site, which lists movers registered with the federal government (registration isn't an endorsement, but its absence is a red flag).
- Check their reviews on the Better Business Bureau.
- Be wary of a quote that seems too good to be true, being contacted by a broker instead of the actual moving company, and any request for a cash or wire deposit up front.
- Read the estimate and contract carefully so you understand whether it's binding or non-binding before you sign.
Other PPM/DITY options:
Helpful Hints
- Full-service movers are good at estimating weight. Ask if they'll send someone out to give you an in-person estimate — it's usually quick, and the quote comes along with it.
- Always ask for a military discount. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. It never hurts to ask.
- Make sure you understand the Bill of Lading and any other documents you're asked to sign.
- Triple-check the insurance/valuation coverage included with your move, and whether you want to purchase more.
- Contact your local legal office and ask whether they can help if you need to file a damage claim against the moving company you select.