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What Do Movers Do? A Guide to Moving Companies and What Else They Help You With

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Moving can be stressful — and science agrees. Data reveals that a whopping 55% of people feel overwhelmed by the moving process, and approximately 10% of people describe moving as traumatic, not just highly stressful. In fact, nearly 1 in 3 people would rather get a divorce than move again!

The reason for this is in part because moving often involves a never-ending to-do list, which can leave you feeling frustrated and stressed. You’ve got boxes to pack, furniture to disassemble, and utilities to set up or disconnect. You may even need junk hauled away or last season’s wardrobe donated.

The good news is you can delegate these tasks to the pros. Many of today’s movers don’t just lug some boxes onto a truck and call it a day. Depending on the company, services range from basic transport to full-service packing, storage, and junk removal. Below you’ll find a breakdown of what movers can actually do, plus tips on finding the right help for your next move.

How Do Moving Companies Work?

There are many different types of movers, including labor-only movers for heavy lifting and full-service moving companies that load, unload, and transport your stuff.

 

“Unhooking or installing your appliances, such as washers and dryers, is not necessarily a DIY-friendly task. Let experienced pros disconnect or reconnect your equipment instead.”

 

When people think about moving companies, they often envision a team of professionals arriving with a moving truck. The movers then load your packed belongings onto the truck, drive them to your new home, and unload everything. If this is how you picture movers, you’ve got the basics down.

Here’s a rundown of core moving services — AKA the basics — and what they involve:

  • Packing and unpacking: Movers will help you pack up your things (including all the fragile stuff that needs extra care) using supplies you provide. You can typically opt for them to handle just a few rooms or take care of your whole home. When you arrive at your new place, they can unpack everything for you as well.
  • Loading and unloading: Skilled movers carefully lift and load packed possessions in a moving truck, then unload everything at your desired destination. Items are unloaded into the rooms you request.
  • Transport: A moving company arrives with a moving truck and safely transports items from Point A to Point B. Items are secured with bungee cords and straps when needed to prevent shifting during transit.
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly: Avoid wrestling with stubborn recliner legs or multi-piece bed frames, and let the movers take apart furniture for you. Your movers can reassemble everything at your new home and place it in the correct rooms. They’ll bring their own tools, such as wrenches and screwdrivers.
  • Assistance with local and long-distance moves: Rely on reputable movers for assistance, whether you’re moving across the street or to the other side of the country. Movers have the logistics, supplies, and equipment needed for local and long-distance moves.

Types of Moving Services

Various types of moving services are available for your relocation. You can find a moving company with experience moving locally, across the country, or even overseas.

Here are some popular services that traditional movers provide:

  • Local: Local moves are typically within the same city, town, county, or metropolitan area, and usually have a limit of 50 to 100 miles.
  • Long-distance: These moves often involve multiple moving teams or trucks, and require more oversight since they can cross state lines. Depending on the distance, storage may also be provided.
  • International: These moves often require customs paperwork, shipping containers, and air freight. Your moving company can coordinate the door-to-port logistics and help you navigate red tape during an international move.
  • Full-service: Enjoy the VIP experience with a full-service moving company that handles everything, from loading to transporting and unloading your belongings. They even bring a truck and professional driver, and full-service movers can also help with furniture assembly and disassembly. Add-ons, such as packing and unpacking, are often included for an additional fee.
  • Labor-only: Consider labor-only movers if you need a team for heavy lifting, which includes loading and unloading the moving truck. You’re responsible for the truck rental and transporting your belongings during a labor-only move.
  • Specialty item: Cranes, dollies, and climate-controlled trucks can help your moving company move specialty items, such as pianos and fine art collections, safely.

Do Moving Companies Provide Moving Supplies?

Many moving companies offer moving supplies, which is more convenient than buying them yourself. Below are the most common supplies you’ll need, divided into those movers provide and those you’ll purchase yourself:

Provided by movers (rented or sold):

  • Cardboard boxes: A moving-day staple available in various sizes and shapes. Great for packing toys, books, and housewares.
  • Furniture pads and blankets: Reduce the risk of scratches, dents, and dings by wrapping items in pads and blankets.
  • Storage containers: Make organization simple with storage containers for your items. Some companies offer tubs for rent rather than purchase, so keep that in mind as you pack.

Typically bought yourself:

  • Wardrobe boxes: Tall boxes equipped with sturdy bars. You can transport clothes from your closet to the box, then straight into your new closet — no hanger removal needed!
  • Packing paper and bubble wrap: Cushion and protect fragile items, including dishes, electronics, and glassware, with packing paper and bubble wrap.
  • Tape and shrink wrap: To secure boxes and items with these packing essentials.

Keep in mind that while movers may sell supplies directly, prices are often higher than what you’d find at a local store. If you want convenience, buy from your movers, but if you’re budget-conscious, it’s best to compare prices first.

Extra Services Movers Can Provide

What do movers do aside from loading and transporting boxes? Many moving companies go beyond the basics, making your life easier with time-saving services.

Here are some extra services your moving company may provide:

  • Storage: Need to move before your new home is ready? Movers can help you coordinate on-site or off-site storage for your belongings, such as PODS container rentals or climate-controlled facilities.
  • Specialty item moving: Get help transporting your beloved pool table, large safe, valuables like a grandfather clock, or piano with specialty moving services.
  • Appliance disconnections and reconnections: Unhooking or installing your appliances, such as washers and dryers, is not necessarily a DIY-friendly task. Let experienced pros disconnect or reconnect your equipment instead.
  • Cleaning: Some moving companies partner with local cleaning companies for deep cleaning services, such as move-out or move-in cleans.
  • Junk removal: Tired of looking at that old fridge in your garage? Have movers haul it away instead of bringing it to your new place.
  • Logistics support: Some movers handle permits, parking, and scheduling, such as booking an elevator for a set time.

Need a service not listed above? Ask your moving company if it’s available. You might be surprised by what the company offers, and even if they can’t provide the service, they might be able to direct you to someone who can.

When Do You Need Each Type of Service?

The secret is knowing what’s best for your situation — and your bank account. Consider your property’s size and how far you’re relocating when comparing different types of moving services.

Sometimes you just need the basics, like a team to load and unload your boxes. Other times, you want the works: loading, unloading, transporting, sand ome help packing, too.

Here’s a rundown to help you decide which moving services you need:

  • Small apartment: Labor-only movers are your best choice if you’ve already rented a truck but don’t want to handle all the heavy lifting on your own. They handle the loading and unloading, and you take care of transportation for your belongings.
  • Large family home: Full-service movers can pack your wedding china, disassemble the bedframes (and rebuild them at your new home), and haul your washer and dryer onto the moving truck. They’ll even bring their own moving truck and transport everything to your new home.
  • Corporate relocation: Long-distance or international movers are your go-to pros here. These experts can navigate customs and shipping logistics, plus help keep your company’s laptops from disappearing during the move.
  • Downsizing/decluttering: A move paired with junk removal or storage services is ideal for folks who are downsizing. Retirees moving into a smaller home can eliminate decades-old items they no longer need.

Need more help deciding between different types of moving services? Share your situation with your movers so they can help you make the right choice.

Cost Considerations by Service Type

Some moves cost less than a weekend getaway, while others rival a small wedding. Services play a big role in what you pay. Here are some estimates for popular moving services:

  • Movers: Expect to shell out around $930 for a full-service moving experience (loading, unloading, and transporting your items) and about $410 for labor-only (loading and unloading help) if you’re moving locally. Costs for a long-distance move vary drastically, but you’ll likely spend $840 to $6,650 based on the type of move you book. Learn more in our guide to moving costs.
  • Packing: Our research shows you’ll probably spend $25-$40 per hour per packer (so if you have multiple packers, the rate will increase). Materials, labor, and time could range from $200 to $2,000.
  • Junk removal: Junk removal usually runs around $150 to $350 per load. Costs can increase significantly if you have multiple bulky items or need a full-house cleanout. Rates typically depend on truck space (how many cubic yards your junk takes up) rather than weight, but every junk removal company has its own system.

For quick reference, here’s how the most common moving services stack up in cost:

Service

Typical cost range

Local movers

About $930 full-service, $410 labor-only

Long-distance movers

$840–$6,650

Packing

$25–$40/hour per packer, $200–$2,000 total

Junk removal

$150–$350 per load

Discuss pricing with your mover or junk removal company in advance so there are no surprises on moving day.

How to Choose the Right Company for Your Situation

Moving can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be unbearable. The right moving company will understand your expectations and budget, making the process hassle-free.

Here’s what to consider before you book movers for the big day:

  • Identify your needs: Do you want the convenience of full-service movers who do it all, or do you just need help moving furniture and boxes?
  • Check movers’ credentials: Make sure movers are licensed and insured, and check reviews to see what other families say. With HireAHelper, you don’t have to wonder: every mover is licensed, insured, and backed by verified reviews.
  • Compare quotes: If you’re hoping to keep costs low, compare price quotes from a few companies.
  • Avoid red flags: Companies should not ask for huge deposits or send confusing contracts.
  • Watch for green flags: Clear fees, easy-to-understand contracts, and dedicated customer service professionals are green flags.

Trust your instincts — and honor your budget — to find the perfect movers for your situation.

Final Thoughts

Movers don’t just move boxes — although they’re happy to do so! The right moving company can make your life easier every step of the way, whether they send in a cleaning crew or pack up your home.

Make your moving day manageable by choosing the right movers. Take advantage of extra services like junk removal, storage, or logistics support. You deserve the convenience and support of movers who offer the services you need.

FAQs

Got questions about different types of moving services or types of movers? You’re in the right place! Let’s run through some common questions below.

What do full-service movers do?

Full-service movers make your move hassle-free by helping with loading, unloading, and transportation. They even provide the moving truck, so you don’t have to worry about securing a rental. For an extra fee, many full-service movers can also help with packing and unpacking. They often handle furniture disassembly and reassembly too, so your beds, tables, and other bulky items are ready to use in your new home.

Do movers pack for you?

Yes — but only if you add packing on as a service. It isn’t a baseline service for most moves, and not all movers offer it. The good news is you can customize the service, whether you need just the kitchen packed up or your whole house handled from top to bottom, giving you flexibility based on your needs and budget.

Do moving companies provide boxes?

Typically, movers don’t include packing supplies with their services. Some companies may sell supplies if you request them, but it’s usually more expensive than buying your own from a home improvement or big-box store. If you’re planning to book packing services, you’ll want to either buy your supplies ahead of time or budget extra for purchasing them from your movers.

How do I find movers who will pack my stuff?

HireAHelper makes it simple to find movers who offer packing as an add-on service. When booking, you’ll see whether a mover provides packing and can even select how many rooms you want packed. Every mover on the platform is licensed, insured, and backed by real customer reviews, so you can feel confident that your movers will handle your belongings with care.

7 Technologies That Changed How People Move

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Moving still takes a ton of effort, but in the not-so-distant past, it was actually worse. There was a time when the only way to connect to a moving company was to call their landline, leave a message, and wait for a call back. And if your couch didn’t fit in your new home? All you could do was check it off your inventory list with a pencil and deal with it.

But, a lot of advances in moving technology have made things much faster and easier. Virtual reality, digital apps, and artificial intelligence are improving the ways we find new homes and move into them. Here are 7 ways technology has forever transformed the moving industry — and might be able to help with your own move.

1. Technology for Home Tours

Woman using VR headset to explore a virtual home interior renovation.

Virtual reality (VR) has totally altered the home-buying process. With 360 and 3D professional photography, you can see a home in its entirety before ever setting foot on the property. And house hunters love this. Virtual tours help them decide whether to visit a property in person, reducing time spent viewing unsuitable homes by about 40%. Properties with virtual tours also sell 31% faster, according to HomeJab.

360 Photography

Virtual tour software platforms like Matterport allow realtors to scan an indoor space and create a navigable 3D model, which is an excellent tool if you’re a buyer. You can click a link and take a virtual tour of a home from anywhere in the world so you can easily decide if the layout works for you.

Drone Photography and Videography

With drone photography and videos, you can clearly see a home and its yard from any screen in the world. You can check out the alleys, roads, and neighbors’ lawns, and see what the surrounding area looks like.This gives a buyer much more context into the neighborhood when deciding whether to make an offer.

AR and VR Technology

Augmented reality (AR) and VR use similar technology in different ways. Where VR uses headsets to give the impression you’re somewhere else, AR adds to what you can already see! As you look at a real-world environment through a smartphone or computer screen, AR can add visuals such as furniture or paint colors.

This technology means realtors can facilitate highly realistic virtual walkthroughs of spaces for out-of-town buyers. Homes can also be staged using AR to reduce actual staging costs and logistics. In addition, design apps can use VR and AR technology to help you virtually “move in” and decorate your space, so you have a plan before your actual move.

2. Digital Apps to Learn About a Neighborhood

Before you decide where to move, you can easily research the safety, walkability, and friendliness of an area from the comfort of your couch. It doesn’t take long to dig up key information, whether you want to know about the best neighborhoods in Tampa or where to move in Las Vegas.

Neighborhood accessibility

Man checking phone while walking in his neighborhood.

With basic apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze, you can get real-time data on the roads, restaurants, and shops in your new neighborhood. You can use them to map traffic flow on the routes you’ll need to travel most, so you can plan school and work commutes. Learn the best roads to take and the time of day to travel them to reduce traffic-related headaches.

Crime statistics

Learn about the safety of your new neighborhood with apps and websites like Citizen and City Protect. City Protect offers police reports, public record requests, and more, and some of its features are free. Family Watchdog provides publicly available information about sex offenders in an area, with detailed reports for a fee.

Neighborhood vibe apps

Believe it or not, there’s more to a neighborhood than traffic and crime stats. Neighborhood Scout is a subscription-based app that provides insights on an area’s demographics, housing, school performance, and other characteristics using 600 data elements.

AreaVibes calculates a neighborhood’s livability score based on 7 factors, including crime rate, amenities, cost of living, education, employment, housing, and user ratings. This score is compared against a national average to give a big picture of your potential new neighborhood. There’s also a search function so you can access the most relevant information.

3. Customer Feedback Tools for Professional Movers

It’s easy to find reviews of professional moving services on platforms such as Google, Facebook, and Yelp. You can quickly learn which companies have a track record for making moving day easy and which ones consistently fall short of expectations.

 

“Smartphones have made visualizing a room way easier. No more guessing or relying on your memory. Apps like Planner 5D and Homestyler allow you to scan a space with your smartphone and save its dimensions.”

 

This has impacted moving companies tremendously. Customers used to choose movers through personal referrals from their friends and relatives. Now, recommendations are available at scale. You can skim reviews of a dozen moving services that handle relocations and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Note: Anyone can leave a review on social media, but it’s worth noting that HireAHelper verifies all reviews before they’re published. This means the feedback you’re reading comes from paying customers.

4. Online Moving Quotes — No Walk-Through Needed

Many moving companies have streamlined the call-and-get-a-quote process that your grandparents used to use, so it’s easier to know how much your move will cost.

Your inner introvert will be happy to hear you can get moving quotes entirely online. Innovative booking tools allow you to enter the basic details of your move and get free, instant moving quotes.

Many movers also offer live FaceTime or Zoom chats to get a better picture of your needs and the size of your home. This ensures you don’t get any expensive surprises after they’ve unloaded the last box from their moving truck.

And, if you have doubts or concerns about your quote from us at HireAHelper, we can help walk you through the process and cost breakdown with just a single phone call.

5. Virtual Checklists to Keep Your Move on Track

Two women using phone to manage virtual moving checklists.

When you create a virtual moving checklist, you can ditch your paper to-do list. Use a note-taking app like Google Keep, Apple Notes, or Evernote on your smartphone, so your checklist is always in your pocket. You can also use a shareable spreadsheet to track pending items, from ordering home insurance to filing your change of address form.

For packing, consider using an inventory app such as Sortly, which lets you list and track every item you own. This is invaluable when making an inventory list before a move because it keeps all your belongings organized and easy to locate during packing, transport, and unpacking.

Not only does all this moving technology mean no more hard copy to-do lists that inevitably get lost, but it also means there are fewer chances for crucial tasks to slip through the cracks. Plus, with cloud sharing, everyone in your household has easy access to the list with instant updates.

6. GPS Trackers to Find Your Moving Truck

GPS technology has been around for a long time. It’s easier than ever for movers to buy trackers to avoid losing furniture, boxes, valuables, and even their moving trucks.

If you’re booking your own moving truck, a GPS can help ensure thieves don’t disappear with your expensive rental. You can also use more localized Bluetooth technology to tag boxes that contain valuables in case they get misplaced within range.

Not to mention, companies now provide more realistic updates for long-distance moves. Can you believe people moving to a new city used to wait around for weeks, wondering when their stuff would arrive? Yikes.

7. Artificial Intelligence as Your Personal Assistant

Smiling woman using laptop computer while sitting on couch at home.
AI chatbots can do more than write a creative excuse for why you’re late or draft your Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech. Tools such as ChatGPT aren’t exclusively a moving technology, but can be a great sidekick that helps your move come together more easily.

Many moving companies already use automated chat features on their websites to improve customer experience, providing instant responses to queries at any time of day. You can leverage AI technology to streamline your move, too:

Create personalized moving plans and checklists

Organizing a move involves many tasks, and each move is unique. AI is great for organizing complex information. Jot down all the things you need to do (use our moving checklist as a starting point) and add tasks unique to your situation.

 

“Your inner introvert will be happy to hear you can get moving quotes entirely [online, and many] movers also offer live FaceTime or Zoom chats to get a better picture of your needs and the size of your home.”

 

Then, use AI to sort the information and create a personalized moving playbook to get everything done. It’s a great way to manage admin tasks, including address changes. You can even use AI to make a schedule based on your move date.

Get smart room-by-room packing guidance

Ready to start packing? AI can help! Use it to generate a list of moving supplies tailored to your belongings. It can also make quick calculations, such as the number of boxes needed to fit all your books. You can also ask ChatGPT or other platforms which rooms or items to pack first and how to group things based on what you own.

Enjoy real-time decision-making support

AI can help you weigh options and make informed decisions. Ask your tool to compare commute times between different neighborhoods. What’s the right size storage unit to rent for your belongings? How does your budget change if you hire a full-service mover instead of renting a U-Haul? Generative AI excels at gathering and condensing information to give you more clarity.

Bonus: Design Apps for Styling Without Stress

There’s one more moving technology that can simplify your relocation. Many new homeowners spend hours planning the furniture layout and decor for their space.

Smartphones have made visualizing a room way easier. No more guessing or relying on your memory. Apps like Planner 5D and Homestyler allow you to scan a space with your smartphone and save its dimensions. This gives you a virtual mockup of your new space.

These apps can save the time and back strain that comes with arranging and rearranging furniture. Even better, you can access room designs while you’re furniture shopping!

The 8 Best Movers in Los Angeles According to Real Customers

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Are you about to move to the L.A. area? Or maybe you’re leaving the City of Angels for new adventures? In either case, I understand how overwhelming the process of packing up and shipping out can be.

As someone who spent years working in moving and storage, I know that who you choose to help you with your move can make all the difference. Unfortunately, it can be hard to know if you’re picking the right Los Angeles moving company.

So without further ado, I give you this curated list of HireAHelper’s top Los Angeles movers (as of Spring 2023). This list is based on real customer reviews. You’ll find companies of all sizes, from well-recognized names to mom-and-pop shops, each with its own strengths and personality.

The 2023 8 Best Los Angeles Movers

Rigo’s Moving & Storage, Inc.

rigo's moving

Price: $113/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.9/5 stars (1,160 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Movers with a truck
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least two hours over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 20% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time.

Why I Love Them

Rigo's moving
Rigo’s Moving & Storage

Rigo’s is the #1 rated mover on this list and for a reason: they have completed more jobs on HireAHelper than any other moving company. They have a robust FAQs section, which displays their commitment to both customers and employees, and I appreciate that they transparently explain what to expect before and on moving day — this extra touch may seem small, but it speaks to their thoughtfulness and service standards.

What Real Customers Said:

Treating customer valuables like their own: “Santiago & Benito are a great team. More attention to detail than I expected. Handled my property as if it was their own. If you’re hiring Rigos ask for these two amazing men.”

Satisfaction from beginning to end: “Fantastic work! Friendly, communicative, efficient, and ready to tackle the job, which was unloading a 16-foot moving truck into a two-bedroom apartment up a flight of stairs. Appreciated the confirmation call beforehand and all their heavy lifting.”

BC Moving Labor

bc moving labor logo

Price: $140/hour for two movers (after 2 hour minimum)

Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars (529 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Refund up to one unused hour over their minimum
  • Ability to stay at least one hour over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 20% charge increase)
bc moving labor
BC Moving Labor

Why I Love Them

Having opened its doors in 2016, BC Moving Labor is somehow “new” to the scene compared to others on this list, which goes to show how much valuable experience exists in the LA area. BC says they’re especially proud that they are fully family-owned and operated, which is reflected in their reviews: honesty, care, trustworthiness, professionalism, and hard work. (5 out of 5 stars after over 500 reviews is crazy!)

What Real Customers Said:

Expert puzzle solvers: “They were amazing! I just stood there scratching my head at how Bernard could fit things together like a perfect puzzle. They got all my stuff into one large POD!! It didn’t look possible to me. I would highly recommend.”

Pro PODS packers: “These guys are awesome! I’ve dealt with a lot of movers and they were the best yet. Really smart with their packing of my pod, super nice and hardworking. They definitely surpassed my expectations and I would recommend them to anyone. Believe all the good reviews!!”

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

 

Excellent Movers

excellent movers logo

Price: $125/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.9/5 stars (484 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least one hour over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 15% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time.

Why I Love Them

While Excellent Movers provides no-frills, standard moving services, I appreciate their call out that no job is too small, which is a relief to all you apartment-dwellers out there. Even if you just need professional assistance getting a new sofa into your office, unloading heavy boxes at a storage unit, or unpacking for an event, Excellent Movers is happy to help. 

What Real Customers Said:

Challenge accepted and accomplished: “Daniel was great to work with! He communicated very well, was on time and he and his workers did an excellent job. They worked very hard to get our ABF trailer filled, even though it was a challenging load. I would definitely recommend them and I would use them again.”

Stress-relieving rockstars: “Thank you so much to Daniel and his crew! Moving is always stressful, but I have to say this is definitely the easiest move I’ve ever done. The scheduling process was super simple, Daniel contacted me the next day to confirm, and the day of the move they showed up early and jumped right in. They took great care of everything, and even went above and beyond to find a solution when an item wasn’t going to fit in the stairs or elevator. Will totally be using them in the future! These guys are rockstars, thanks again!”

Patriot One Movers

patriot one movers

Price: $129/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars (654 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Same-day requests at normal rates
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Refund for any unused time over their minimum
  • Ability to stay at least two hours over the prebooked time
patriot one movers
Patriot One Movers

Why I Love Them

With more than 13 years of experience, Patriot One Movers is the only business on this list with all 5-star reviews — a lofty accomplishment that shouldn’t be overlooked. They also hold the longest daily hours from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., which can come in handy for long moving days and urgent communications. Not to mention, they may be able to do a same-day request at normal rates! 

When people review Patriot One’s customer reviews, you often find recurring themes of professionalism, efficiency, and friendliness. 

What Real Customers Said: 

Earning repeat customers: “First time working with these guys they were early and came prepared [and] brought tools and their own dolly etc. Worked quickly and efficiently. They were amazing! I’m using them again the following weekend for the second part of my move. 100% would recommend them to anyone.”

Words of praise from a seasoned mover: “This was my 14th move in the last 10 ten years, and Patriot One was THE best movers I’ve had. I was late arriving to my new home, and Frank was very accommodating and understanding of the situation. He was prompt and helpful when arriving the next morning, stayed with our truck because we had to park in a “no-parking zone”; he really put us at ease! The two movers he brought were the NICEST guys. They made sure everything was EXACTLY where I wanted it (even humored me by moving the rug and couch to the perfect spot). I can’t say enough good things about them. I really felt like my things were in great hands and treated with care and respect. You can feel confident with them and quickly check-off an item on your moving to-do list.”

Lucky Movers

lucky movers logo

 Price: $89/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars (774 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least two hours over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 20% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time.
lucky movers los angeles
Lucky Movers in Los Angeles

Why I Love Them

Lucky is the only company on this list that encourages customers to “call, email or text us” after booking a job. This friendly, open communication provides reassurance — especially for customers who are new to moving!

I also enjoyed their personality in their FAQs — from sharing that they enjoy the “workout” aspect of moving, to training their crew members to “pack a (PODS) or truck like playing the Tetris game.” Lucky Movers has a standout voice and seems to have a culture that embraces fun. 

What Real Customers Said: 

Flexible around the holidays: “Ivan and Jose at Lucky Movers were awesome! They were patient with us as we had 2 moving date changes, and stuck with us on our Christmas Eve move. On time, careful with our belongings, polite, efficient, they were the whole package! We can definitely recommend Lucky Movers to anyone who has an upcoming move planned!”

Strong communication: “Highly recommend these guys to help you move. They were great about keeping me in the loop as to when they’d arrive at my house, and got there when they said. Were careful with my stuff, and got my POD loaded in no time. Definitely will use them again.”

We the States Moving

We the states logo

Price: $75/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 stars (437 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Same-day requests (w/ 5% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time, no guaranteed availability beyond the prebooked time

Why I Love Them

We the States Moving is the most affordable company on this list and the only profile that contains a message in the “About Us” section from the owner, Jon — a thoughtful, personal touch.

Jon brings years of experience in the moving industry and supports a wide range of services, from state-to-state moves, to rearranging furniture in medical offices and spas.

What Real Customers Said:

Professionalism from start to finish: “Jon did an incredible job. He figured out a way to pack 2 U-Boxes and we can’t believe he fit everything in there! He was a professional and really knew what he was doing. I would hire him again in a heartbeat. Thank you for the amazing service!!”

Accommodating last-minute arrangements: “We the States Moving proved a lifesaver. I was tasked with an impromptu move and needed movers the same day, no scheduling. Well, through Hire A Helper, I found We the States Moving and they answered me promptly. They arrived on time, went right to work, did not slow down, packed and stacked my possessions with great care, and provided me with packing tips for future reference. I am forever grateful for We the States Moving for bailing me out at the last minute. I highly recommend them and would use them again.”

Black Eagle Moving

black eagle moving

Price: $100/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars (151 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least two hours over the prebooked time
Note: No refund for unused time, no same-day requests.
Black Eagle Movers
Black Eagle Movers

Why I Love Them

Black Eagle has been on the scene for fewer than 10 years, but that’s been plenty of time to back up its service commitment. They make it very clear in their FAQs that the customer’s needs for their move are their first priority. 

Black Eagle also highlights that they have two-valued, highly trained teams of movers, emphasizing their commitment to quality and intimate approach.

What Real Customers Said:

Problem-solving on the spot: “They arrived as scheduled and managed to find my apartment in a huge maze of a complex by themselves. I showed them what I had and they made a plan of action that went efficiently. I have a large library and ran out of boxes for books the day before, but they improvised a safe and easy way to get them in the container and for the journey. They also wrapped all of my furniture for protection and used far less space in the container than the last movers I used. Friendly, experienced, and fast. Highly recommend, particularly if you are using a container for the move.”

That magic touch: “Enrique and his team have a magical power. They can take your pre-move stress levels and make them disappear! Arrived on time, packed everything beautifully, and seemed to make space in my U-Haul appear out of nowhere. I would highly recommend Black Eagle Movers!”

Thunderhorse Moving

thunderhorse movers

Price: $100/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars (302 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Movers with a truck
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least one hour over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 5% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time.
Thunderhorse Movers
Thunderhorse Movers

Why I Love Them

Thunderhorse is one of only two companies on this list that offers movers with a truck (Rigo’s is the other). They also call out their piano-packing expertise — undoubtedly a valuable service to musicians.

With long daily hours (8 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week), available trucks, and middle-of-the-road pricing ($100/hr.), Thunderhorse is a well-rounded contender.

What Real Customers Said:

A happy homecoming: “I moved here from Oregon and this crew of 3 amazing gentleman got the job done quickly in the worst heat wave. They unloaded a 26 ft U-Haul and a 16 ft. truck in 3 hours!!! They brought my items and boxes to each room we specified. They were polite, communicative, and extremely hardworking. 10/10 service! I would not hesitate to use this company again. I only hope I tipped generously enough for their hard work. I will absolutely recommend them to anyone I know who needs help moving or unloading.”

Going the extra mile: “Jorge and team arrived on time and ready to go. They even brought an extra person to help make sure everything would get done as quickly as possible, which I appreciated. They were very fast and worked hard. I would recommend (them)!”

LA Movers for Jobs of All Sizes

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

 

From in-state relocations and long-distance moves to loading trucks and unpacking furniture, HireAHelper’s top Los Angeles movers span a range of services — as well as pricing — so you should have luck finding help with your move no matter what your budget and needs are. 

Thinking of Hiring Day Laborers? Here’s Where To Start

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Whether you’re looking to move or just want to make some repairs or upgrades to your home, some jobs are simply out of your wheelhouse. Hiring day laborers may be a cost-effective option for helping you complete all kinds of home improvement projects. 

If you’re a new homeowner, you may not be familiar with what day laborers do, or where to begin searching for day labor near you. Since there are certain risks and legalities involved with hiring day laborers, knowing exactly what you’re getting into can make the difference between a great experience … or a potentially disastrous one.

How do you hire day laborers safely and affordably? Here’s how to utilize the robust labor pool to hire day laborers that are dependable and trustworthy.

What Are “Day Laborers”?

As the name implies, day laborers are people hired on a temporary, per diem basis, often to complete a specific job. Day laborers tend to take on work related to areas such as:

  • Construction
  • Moving
  • Carpentry
  • Landscaping
  • And more

The benefit of hiring day laborers is that they’re often less expensive and more flexible than some contractors or professional tradespeople.

What Kinds of Jobs Can Day Laborers Do?

day labor

  • Cleaning: Laborers are often used for tasks such as interior housekeeping or washing windows and home exteriors.
  • Construction: Day laborers can often perform everything from brick and masonry work to mixing cement and executing demolition projects.
  • Moving and Transportation: Daily labor can help with packing up a home as well as moving and transporting furniture and other large objects. They can also come in handy for projects or events that require materials to be moved from one site or location to another.
  • Repairs: For certain kinds of plumbing or electrical work, hiring day laborers may be a cost-effective way to get the problem solved by someone who has the specialized skills you need.
  • Renovations: Need someone to set the tiles in your bathroom, complete a big interior or exterior paint job, or build an outdoor fence? These jobs are exactly the type of work for which many day laborers are in the market.

How To Vet Day Laborers

Day laborers are not one-size-fits-all. They come with different skills and experience levels, and you should be discerning for the safety of everyone involved.

 

“The average hourly pay for a day laborer is about $15 … but this rate should likely increase with more complicated jobs that require more experience.”

 

For jobs that involve using heavy machinery such as forklifts and excavators, or even hand and power tools, certifications and licenses may be required. You need to take the time to ask questions, conduct background checks, and verify work experience. 

When vetting a day laborer, here are some important questions to ask:

  • Can you tell me about past work experiences related to this job?
  • What’s your going rate?
  • What working hours do you prefer?
  • Do you require special accommodations to perform the job?
  • Do you have your own tools?
  • Do you have any certifications or licenses?

What Are My Responsibilities With Day Laborers?

As much as you’d love some help with your drywall hanging or vinyl siding, it can be scary when you aren’t recruiting labor through the intermediary of a licensed contracting business. But there are some ways to ensure you keep yourself protected legally and otherwise.

As hiring a day laborer is a private arrangement, here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Even if you get connected with a worker through a day labor work center or temp agency, that organization will not be managing the worker for you.
  • You are subject to the same labor laws as any other employer. Depending on where you live, there may also be additional paperwork and regulations your state requires, related to factors such as discrimination and payment. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is an excellent resource for what you need to know.
  • If the day laborer is injured on the job, you will be held responsible. This means you could be required to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more, depending on the severity of the injury. Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see what coverage, if any, exists in case a day laborer becomes injured.
  • The average hourly pay for a day laborer is about $15, according to PayScale, but this rate should likely increase with more complicated jobs that require more experience.

Where Do I Go To Find Day Laborers Near Me?

day labor home depot

In years past, homeowners or businesses interested in hiring day laborers would head out to the local Home Depot or designated street corners near construction sites to scope out the talent. But this can be risky on several levels. Not only could you be wasting your time and money if the worker lacks the necessary skills, but bringing a stranger into your home can potentially put you, your family, and your property at risk.

What should I do instead?

If you aren’t well-versed in the hierarchies and subculture of day laborers at your local hardware store, have no fear! Technology and other resources make the process of finding reliable and trustworthy day laborers near you much easier:

  •  Day Labor Work Centers

Think of this option as using a matchmaking service to help you find a day laborer that specializes in the skills needed for your particular project. If for whatever reason you find that the day laborer you hired doesn’t meet the requirements you need to complete the job properly, the day labor work center can arrange to find you a more suitable worker.

  •  Word of Mouth and Social Media

Asking for referrals from people you know and trust can be the easiest and safest method for hiring day laborers. You can also reach out to your network by posting to social media with details about your general location, the nature of the work, and any specific skills or certifications required.

Project-specific services like Porch.com can help you find immediate labor help.
  • Online Day Labor Curators
    • Porch.com offers a variety of tools to help with every aspect of home improvement and moving, and their online service for finding a handyman is particularly useful. You can easily search on the website for available day laborers or contractors near you that specialize in everything from bathroom remodeling to garage door installation. The site also allows you to read customer reviews about available workers for extra peace of mind.
    • If you’re moving, packing, rearranging furniture, or facing any other project that requires an extra hand with the heavy lifting, HireaHelper.com has a user-friendly tool that allows you to compare prices and even find a mover with a truck if needed. You’ll also have access to a customer service team 7 days a week, and all-day labor orders come with damage coverage and a $1,000 service guarantee.

Hiring daily labor isn’t always a straightforward process, but when you succeed at getting the help you’re looking for, you’ll find it’s well worth the time and effort. This guide should give you a head start on the learning curve, so you’ll have a qualified, reliable day laborer on your doorstep in no time.

2021 Study: Do People Actually Regret Moving?

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Key Findings

  • Despite some regrets, 82% of respondents admit that moving has changed their life for the better
  • 30% of Americans that we surveyed regret at least something about their move
  • People who moved due to COVID are most likely to regret their move (31%)
  • Among those who regret their move, “moving away from their friends” (49%) and “leaving the area they used to live in” (40%) are the top regrets
  • A quarter (26%) of people regretting their move felt that way immediately after moving
  • Regretting their moves, 15% of respondents are considering moving back to where they used to live
  • Location (51%), size (41%), and layout (38%) of home are most appreciated aspects of new home

 

Do people actually regret moving? Whether moving for a new job or to retire, moving in with a significant other, or moving back in with your parents, there are many factors at play for making the big jump.

This is why it seems perfectly natural that no matter how hard we prepare for our move, we might regret something about it afterward. 

And yet, most Americans who moved in the last year don’t regret their decision. In fact, most believe it made their life better, despite some reported complex feelings from those who did end up regretting their moves. 

Read on as we break down our most recent survey of over 1,200 people who moved over the last year.

A Regret Shared: Almost One in Three Americans Who Moved Have at Least Some Regrets

While most of those who moved in the past year don’t look back, about a third (30%) have at least a few regrets about their move. 

Millennials are the least pleased with their move, as 37% of them regret at least something about it—more than any other generation. Gen Z, on the other hand, is a lot more optimistic, as only 27% of them found something regrettable about their move.

Why people move might also have an effect on whether they regret it. Those who moved due to COVID, for example, are more likely to experience regret (31% versus 22%).

Similarly, those who moved in search of cheaper housing are somewhat predictably more likely to regret their move (33%) versus those who moved to a new and better home (19%).

Leaving Friends, Neighborhood, and Family: America’s Biggest Moving Regrets

People often claim they don’t like their living situation (e.g., rent cost, landlords). But what does the data say?

In truth, moving is more of a complex trade-off. Moving somewhere for work or study sometimes comes at the price of moving away from family; moving to a bigger, better home often means exchanging a bustling, vibrant city for quiet suburban living. 

 

“While most of those who moved in the past year don’t look back, about a third (30%) have at least a few regrets about their move.”

 

So it’s no surprise that Americans reported these factors (over bad landlords!) as the most regrettable aspects about their overall move. According to respondents who reported having regrets about their most recent move, nearly half (49%) list moving further away from friends over all stated reasons. 

Meanwhile, some 40% miss the area they used to live in, while 38% have regrets about moving further away from family, the latter likely exacerbated by the restrictions on family gatherings brought about by moving during the COVID pandemic. 

moving regretsNearly a quarter (23%) of those who regret moving feel that way because it meant leaving their previous home. This sentiment is most common among those who moved to save money on housing costs.

But other moving regrets are less sentimental and more tangible. For 30% of people who claim to regret moving, it’s not where they chose, but how much they paid for the move that added to their disappointment. And for roughly 10%, it’s the choice of moving company they wish they could do over. (It literally pays to do your research.)

Instant Regret: A Quarter of Americans Who Regretted Their Move Knew It Immediately

When you know, you know, as the old saying goes. As many as 26% of Americans who have regrets about their move developed that feeling straight away. An additional 9% developed regrets after a week. Meanwhile, it took 26% one whole month to realize their newfound predicament.

That New Home Feeling: What Americans Like and Dislike About Their New Homes

Judging by our survey, if there’s one thing Americans make sure their new home delivers on, it’s location. Over 60% of those surveyed reported liking where their new place is, while only 9% aren’t happy with it.

 

“Millennials are the least pleased with their move, as 37% of them regret at least something about it—more than any other generation.”

 

moving regretsHome size (41%) and layout (38%) are the second and third most appreciated aspects of a new residence, while roughly a third pointed out they’re happy about the amenities in their home (32%) and the local area (30%).

The most common dislike with regards to the new place was financial. Almost one in five (19%) Americans who moved in the past year aren’t happy with the cost of their new home. In fact, people who moved specifically to save on housing costs are most likely (69%) to be unhappy with what they’re paying in rent or mortgage for their new place. Knowing this, it’s vital to make sure you compare the moving services in your area for the best possible price.

The Right Move: Despite Regrets, Most Feel Their Move Changed Their Life for the Better

More than 8 in 10 (82%) Americans who moved in the last 12 months feel that the move changed their life for the better. Even 77% of those who have some regrets about their new home or how the move went seem to believe it was the right thing to do.

Much like with regrets, people who moved for certain reasons felt differently about the impact their move had on their life in general. For example, a reduced 69% of those whose move was forced by COVID felt the move affected them positively. 

People whose primary reason for moving was a new or better job are also less likely to feel that way—only 68% of them felt their move had a positive impact on their life.

A small minority (5%) felt the opposite way, saying that moving made their life worse. Only about one in ten (13%) admitted moving didn’t really make a difference to them one way or the other.

Most people have difficulty with coping with and embracing change, even if change is for the better. This is probably why many Americans who moved in the last year have at least a few regrets about their decision, even though the data overwhelmingly suggests moving makes people’s lives better on the whole.

Sources and Methodology
All the figures referenced above are based on a multi-question survey of 1,253 Americans who booked and completed a verified move using HireAHelper.com within the last 12 months.

 

Illustrations by Nero Hamaoui

The 5 DIY Projects That Will Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal (And Resale Value)

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Sometimes, I like to stroll around my neighborhood and gaze at the front of all of the homes in my area. It’s fun to see who updated their landscaping this summer, whose weeds are out of control, and who decided to paint their home a wacky color.

While I can’t see the inside of these homes, I definitely get a sense for the family’s style and how much pride they take in their home just at a quick glance.

If the outside of your house is looking less than desirable, there are some simple updates you can do right now to improve your curb appeal. This past summer, I overhauled the exterior of my entire house (you can read all about it right here) and it’s looking 110% better.

I’ve documented the DIY projects I pulled off to take our curb appeal to the next level.

1. First things first: Start with these paint projects

If you have the budget and time, nothing changes the front your home like a totally new color.

Truthfully, I’m not in love with the beige color of the outside of our home. When we first moved in, I looked into hiring a team to paint all of that beige brick to white. Sadly, the quote came back at $15,000 … YIKES! Looks like the beige will stick around for a while longer.

But even if you can’t fit the bill or paint the front of your place yourself, there are still other areas you can paint on the outside of your own home, which we’ll discuss below.

Blare your front door color

Your front door can make a huge difference. Our front door was a faded brown color before I decided to brighten things up by painting it a pretty light blue. (The official color is actually called “Stratton Blue”.) I also added a new door knocker that reflects our style and family personality (yep, it’s a gold bee!). Painting the front door only took me a few hours and my entire house instantly looked happier.

These Paint Colors Have the Best Resale Value

Zillow examined 50,000 home sales and found these colors help sellers make as much as $5,000 more!

Want to paint your front door? Be sure to check out this tutorial with 5 tips to get a long-lasting finish.

Freshen up your garage door

While the front door added some much-needed color to our home’s exterior, there was another area in serious need of some TLC: our garage door. The brown paint was peeling and faded, and it was begging for some attention. Plus, garage doors are one of the biggest indicators of a house’s resale value.

Here’s what it looked like after we gave it more life:

I had never painted a garage door before, but I’m happy to announce that it was one of the easiest DIY projects I’ve ever tackled! Two coats of the color “Tricorn Black” later, and now I don’t cringe every time we pull up to our house to enter the garage.

5 Sweet Garage Upgrades That Up Your Home’s Value

Garage additions and upgrades like the five in this list can produce an estimated 65 percent return-on-investment.

Still a little unsure about your painting skills? Here are some of our tips for painting your garage door.

2. Have a porch? Install a porch swing

Porch Swing Tutorial via Yellow Brick Home

If we had a porch on our house, I would without a doubt add a porch swing. There’s just something so cozy and homey about this exterior addition. I like to picture myself swinging away in the morning while sipping my coffee and leisurely watching the rest of the neighborhood stroll on by.

However, our friends Kim & Scott from the blog Yellow Brick Home did add a DIY porch swing to their Chicago porch. They built the entire thing from scratch and let me tell you, it adds so much to their home’s vibe. The monetary cost? Only about $100, and it was a total facelift to their place. You can DIY one yourself by following their tutorial, or if that’s a bit too advanced for you, consider buying an inexpensive swing (like this one) and installing it yourself.

3. Lighting is everything

Take a look at the lighting on the outside of your home tonight. Do your fixtures emit enough light, or does the outside of your home look dark and scary? Maybe your fixtures are a bit weathered and outdated? If so, then simply upgrading them may be the perfect way to improve the exterior of your home.

Exterior lights don’t need to be super expensive (here’s a great list of fixtures all under $200) and you can install the new ones yourself to save even more cash.

This video tutorial breaks down the process to replace your exterior lights with new and improved versions!

Oh, and don’t forget string lights! Both of us have string lights on our patios to emit a soft glow at night. You can just buy a plug-in timer (we use this one) so they go on and off every evening. Why not bring that fancy bistro feel to your own patio?!

4. Rent a power washer for your sidewalk

This is by far the easiest DIY project out of the bunch … rent a power washer and go to town cleaning the outside of your home! I can’t tell you how amazing it feels to see all of the dirt and grime wash away.

I power washed our driveway, the steps leading up to our house, and even some areas on the exterior of our home to get it looking clean and new again. You can follow these steps to get the job done right.

It will only cost you about $30 to rent a power washer for the day, so schedule a day to get this project done and I promise you’ll be happy with the results! Oh, and don’t forget to wear rain boots and ragged clothes. It’s a fantastic protip, but you will be filthy by the end of this project.

5. Modernize your address plate

It’s the small details that really take your curb appeal to the next level. Upgrading your address sign is one of them. I’ve changed up this small detail at every home I’ve lived in, and it made such a big difference. You can purchase a modern address plate, but honestly? We suggest making your own.

How did I make mine? I took a piece of wood, some inexpensive numbers from Amazon, and a few extra supplies, then put together this cool address plate for the outside of our home. It only took me an afternoon and our house was instantly chic!

Here’s the tutorial to create your own modern address sign.

Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of time to take the outside of your home to the next level. Take a few weekends this fall to get your house looking nice and upgraded (before the dreaded winter arrives!).

Finally, when your neighbors stroll around the hood, they’ll see your house and think, “Wow, their home looks unbelievable!”

 

 

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