By Haley Crim

Packing services can transform an overwhelming move into a peaceful and stress-free transition. Some of the key advantages of using packing or downsizing services include time savings, organized items, less heavy lifting, and the ability to focus on more important tasks during the moving process. 

According to Redfin, the average three-bedroom home requires approximately 60 to 80 boxes for a move, a figure that does not include packing tape, bubble wrap, or any other essential packing supplies. On top of this investment, you will also need to take hours out of your day to pack, which can interfere with your other responsibilities. 

Enter packing services, a one-stop solution that will free up time and energy during your move. 

What Does a Packing Service Include? 

Packing services take the complications out of ensuring your items are ready to go when you move. Packers not only put everything into boxes or wrappers; they also supply packing essentials that you would normally have to pay for yourself. 

Packers have extensive experience, so they will know what items go best together and how to keep fragile pieces from breaking. They will also typically make an inventory list to track everything in case something gets lost in transit. Labels make boxes clear and prevent mixups. 

Depending on the company that you choose, they may also offer unpacking services. Rather than a home full of boxes, you can relax in a fully unpacked space the second the move is over. 

How Expensive Are Packers?

The cost of packers relies on several factors. Some people like a whole-home approach, so choosing full packing services is the ideal solution. Others might only need assistance with specific rooms or furniture pieces. 

If you are unsure, make a budget first and then request packing estimates from different companies in your area. Estimate the square footage of your home and take inventory to get the most accurate estimate of the total cost. 

Why Is a Full Packing Service a Good Solution for Busy Families?

Moving is hectic for anyone, but busy families make the process even more difficult. Between managing children’s schooling and extracurricular activities, coordinating logistics, and ensuring that all essentials remain within easy reach, it is tough for families to find the time to pack items on a tight schedule. 

Save Time

Many families now have both parents working full-time, which can limit the amount of time available for packing and organizing. A packing service can take care of that task on your behalf, saving you many hours. Once items are packed, you will be able to coordinate with the moving company or load them yourself. 

Expert Fragile Packing

Many items require special packing methods so they do not break during the move. Packers have the experience to know exactly which materials they will need to give your items the safest transport. It is especially important for heavy or specialty items, such as solid wood antiques or musical instruments. 

Effectively Organize Items 

When families are rushed to pack, organization often goes out the window in favor of a quicker process. Packers can establish an organization system to track where everything goes. Packing similar items together ensures that unpacking will be a methodical, easy process. 

Some easy organization systems include: 

  • Balancing light and heavy items for easier lifting 
  • Grouping items by room
  • Making smaller boxes of essentials for the first few nights 

Little to No Heavy Lifting 

Lack of muscle or lifting experience can lead to serious injuries when packing and moving items. Packers can assist with the heavy lifting, so you do not have to worry about excess sprains or strains while trying to coordinate the rest of the move. 

Focus on Taking Care of Important Matters 

When you aren’t bogged down with packing, you can turn your attention to other tasks that cannot be outsourced. Work on arranging auto transport services for your car or research school districts if you are moving to a new city. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Charge for Packers and Movers?

The minimum charge depends on the company that you work with. Some companies have a minimum, while others charge per person or per hour. A

A typical minimum service fee may include an hour commitment, such as two to three hours, and a minimum surcharge that covers fuel and labor costs. 

What Should I Do While the Packers Work? 

You do not have to sit around and do nothing while packers work on your home. Use the time to gather important items that you will need within easy reach during the move, such as: 

  • Valuables
  • Key documents 
  • Items needed immediately upon move-in 

You can also spend that time cleaning or conducting repairs. It might also be a good time to go through your possessions to decide what items to: 

  • Keep 
  • Trash
  • Give away or donate

What Happens if Something Breaks in Transit?

Most moving companies have standard liability policies with limited coverage, which may protect some items that break in transit. Released value protection bases its reimbursement on the weight of the item, not necessarily its full value. 

However, if you have quite a few valuable or expensive pieces, then it may be worth it to pay for extra coverage. 

What Will Packers and Movers Not Move?

While packers and movers are trained to handle many different items, there are certain items that they cannot move. These include: 

  • Food
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Alcohol
  • Pressurized oxygen tanks
  • Plants
  • Nail polish
  • Anything related to firearms
  • Sentimental or valuable items
  • Pets

Some of these items, such as oxygen tanks and nail polish, cannot be moved because they are highly flammable. Others, such as alcohol and firearms, need to comply with state laws regarding safe transportation.

Consider Packing Services Today

Packing services can save you time, money, and stress during an already-difficult time. Use this guide to determine whether full packing services are a good idea, whether relocating to a new city or simply moving down the street. 

Would you like more information on how to make your next move easy? Take a look around our website for tips, tricks, and guides.