Moving Information Central
Moving Insights
Welcome to 'The Hub', your one-stop destination for all things moving. Here at SwiftHaul, we understand that moving can be a daunting task. That's why we've created this space to provide you with in-depth information and articles to make your moving process smoother. Whether you're looking for packing services, long-distance moving tips, or advice on moving furniture, we've got you covered. Our primary goal is to make your moving experience as stress-free as possible. Stay tuned for more insights and tips.
Long-Distance Moving
How To Choose The Right Moving Company
In 2025, moving trends are influenced by various factors such as employment opportunities, housing affordability, climate, and quality of life. Economic conditions and the continued flexibility of remote work are prompting many Americans to reconsider where they live.
According to a recent Architectural Digest survey, 55% of Americans expressed a desire to move, with affordability being the top motivation. This shift underscores the appeal of areas with lower housing costs, strong job markets, and appealing lifestyles.
In general, states with a lower cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market are likely to attract new residents.
One of the biggest questions people have when thinking about a long-distance move is how to get their belongings from their old home or business to the new one. Do you hire a moving company or handle everything on your own? For many people, a moving company makes everything related to a move easier.
Finding the right moving company is a significant decision. There are usually budget concerns and strict timelines to follow. The safety and security of your belongings is important to keep in mind, too. You might also consider making each step of the move smoother for everyone by choosing the right moving company.
Key Takeaways
- Your moving needs usually dictate the services you’ll use.
- Verifying your movers’ credentials and insurance helps protect you.
- Moving companies’ experience matters.
- Pay attention to pricing and fees to avoid being overcharged.
- Moving brokers can help facilitate moving services and take stress off your plate.
The most significant factor in how to choose a moving company (or whether to hire one at all) is the type of move you’re planning. Local moves may not require professional movers at all. If you can make multiple trips, own a large vehicle, or don’t have bulky furniture, you may be able to move on your own.
Renting and driving a rental truck across town is much different than using one to travel hundreds of miles. In this situation, you’ll likely want to hire professionals to move your stuff. The major difference between local and long-distance moves is the distance traveled. This distance impacts several costs related to your move, including mileage charges, lodging and per diem costs for your movers, and more.
Outside of hiring long-distance moving services, you may also need to hire movers for bulky or specialty items. Trying to move a piano on your own, for example, is especially difficult. Hiring a mover with experience with musical instruments can help reduce the risk of damage.
Moving is stressful enough without worrying about unreliable movers. Asking the right questions and thoroughly checking credentials can help you find trustworthy professionals who will handle your move with care. No matter how many movers you’re comparing, consider these important questions to ask movers:
- Are you licensed for interstate moves?
- What’s your policy for handling damaged or lost items?
- What types of insurance coverage do you offer?
- Released Value Protection (basic coverage): Minimal coverage typically only covers around $0.60 per item. Compensation for damages or losses is rarely enough to pay for a replacement.
- Full Value Protection (comprehensive coverage): Full compensation for damaged or lost items, often with a minimum or maximum coverage amount.
Before you hire your long-distance movers, verify their credentials to protect your belongings.
Every interstate mover must have a USDOT number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This tracks their safety record and ensures they meet federal requirements. You can verify this number by checking it on the FMCSA website.
For insurance, request proof of general liability and workers’ compensation coverage that protects you from liability during the move. You’ll also want to look out for two types of coverage:
Emerging Trends
When you hire professional movers, you have two choices: hiring them on your own or using the services of a moving broker to facilitate the move.
Moving companies typically own their trucks and equipment and handle your belongings directly. They hold direct liability insurance and are responsible for the hands-on aspects of your move. They usually perform in-person surveys and provide estimates based on that.
Moving brokers, meanwhile, are intermediaries. They don’t own trucks or employ movers. Instead, they book and sell your move to moving companies. They charge a fee for their services, but the stress they can take off your plate is well worth the price. Like movers, all brokers must be registered with the FMCSA.
As the founder of SwiftHaul says, “The most beneficial aspect of utilizing our services is that we tailor make the entire relocation based on your specifications then take that info to our dispatch board and place you with the company that best suits your needs in terms of pricing, scheduling, and services offered. SwiftHaul Moving uses the experience developed over tens of thousands of relocations. As a broker we are able to determine what companies are able to deliver the service quality you need while retaining cost.”
If you choose to use a moving broker, get everything in writing and confirm the details of which moving company will handle your move. Even though brokers vet their partners, ensure you can access the broker’s and mover’s licenses and contact information.
While directly working with a moving company can ensure direct control over your move, brokers are helpful in many situations. They are a great resource when moving during peak season, for example. They’re also particularly useful when you need to source multiple quotes from movers and don’t have time to handle that legwork yourself. They also have partnerships with movers who offer specialized services and can point you in the right direction.
States with attractive housing markets, such as Texas, South Carolina, and North Carolina, have seen steady population inflows, appealing particularly to young professionals and families looking for more space and economic stability.
Meanwhile, states with higher costs of living and competitive housing markets, like California and New York, continue to experience population outflows.
Southern states like Tennessee and the Carolinas have become hotspots for those looking to balance lifestyle and affordability. Many are drawn to these regions for their mild climates, outdoor recreational opportunities, and reasonable cost of living.
The Appalachian region has also seen growing interest as people seek out quieter lifestyles with access to nature while remaining near major metropolitan areas for work and social amenities.
Shifting Urban Centers
Cities in the Midwest, such as Columbus, Ohio, and Indianapolis, Indiana, are beginning to benefit from this movement, attracting individuals with affordable housing and an expanding job market.
Remote Work’s Influence on Migration
For more information, check out the full articles from SwiftHaul.
Top Areas Of USA People Are Leaving
Major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles are some of the most expensive places to live in the country, making homeownership difficult for young families and professionals alike. Rent and property costs are considerably higher than the national average, pushing residents to seek more affordable alternatives in nearby states.
States like Texas, Nevada, and Arizona have become popular alternatives for Californians, offering a lower cost of living, fewer natural disaster risks, and expanding job markets. Remote work flexibility offered by many tech companies has also allowed Californians to relocate while still maintaining their employment, further driving outflows.
The trend has also contributed to growth in surrounding cities and states where many former San Franciscans are now settling.
Cities in New Jersey are often within commuting distance of New York City, which adds to housing demand and cost, leading more people to consider relocating.
Additionally, retirees who would traditionally have stayed in the Garden State are opting for states with warmer climates and lower tax burdens, such as Florida and North Carolina, further contributing to the state’s outflow.
Popular destinations include Florida, Texas, and Pennsylvania, where job opportunities continue to grow.
Many New Yorkers are now moving to cities with lower cost of living and more spacious housing options, such as Miami, Austin, and Nashville. The rise of remote work has enabled people to seek a lifestyle outside the expensive NYC metro area, especially those prioritizing housing affordability and a slower pace.
Many are moving to the Southeast, particularly Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina, where the cost of living is lower, and the climate is milder, creating a more attractive living environment for those prioritizing affordability and lifestyle.
The state’s cold winters are also a factor in migration decisions. People seeking warmer climates and lower costs are leaving Illinois for states like Texas, Tennessee, and Florida, where they find affordable housing, fewer tax burdens, and more pleasant year-round weather.
TOP 10 MOVING DEBACLES: SWIFTHAUL 101
1. Not Planning Ahead
One of the biggest moving mistakes to avoid is a failure to plan. Relocating — even if it’s just across town — requires forethought. Planning your move carefully helps avoid last-minute chaos. It’s even more important for long-distance moves, which can be costly and take more time.
Without a solid plan, you might scramble to pack, coordinate logistics, and pay thousands more for last-minute services because you didn’t source quotes quickly enough. It might even lead to property damage because you’re in a rush. To steer clear of these issues, create a detailed moving checklist weeks in advance. This helps ensure a smooth transition to your new home. If you’re short on time, enlisting professional help from a long-distance moving services broker can help. These companies vet and compare several different moving companies to help find you the right balance of price and service.
2. Failure to Declutter
Americans have a lot of stuff, and we keep buying bigger houses to contain it. Another major moving mistake is failing to declutter when it comes time to move. In addition to the detrimental health effects of a cluttered home, packing and moving all those items takes time, money, and effort.
Staging your home for sale and packing for a move presents a real opportunity to downsize the number of things you own. As you pack, consider donating or selling items you no longer need. If you’re moving on a budget, it can help cut costs because there just won’t be as many boxes or items to transport.
3. Not Having Enough Packing Materials
Nothing is worse than running out of packing tape or boxes, but it happens often. Stock up on all the packing supplies you need before you start packing so you can avoid this common moving mistake. Don’t forget to pick up packing paper, bubble wrap, or packing peanuts to protect those fragile belongings like framed photos and dishes.
4. Not Measuring Furniture
Furniture is among the biggest, bulkiest items you’ll transport as part of your move. Getting items out of your house or apartment is one thing, but getting them into the new space is another. Measure the furniture and any rooms and doorways you need to navigate as part of the move. The last thing you want to experience is leaving a $5,000 couch on the curb because it simply will not fit your new home. This advice extends to appliances, too. If you’re bringing a refrigerator or large appliance like a washer and dryer, ensure it fits the space at your final destination.
5. Forgetting Box Labels
Another common moving mistake? Not labeling boxes.
Proper box labels streamline unpacking and help you locate essential items quickly. They can also help your movers load and unload the truck. After all, the last thing you’d want is to put a box of heavy hardback books on top of a box of dishes.
The best way to label boxes is to write the room they’re in and the box’s contents. Write these details on multiple sides of the box, including the top. You may even want to label boxes with numbers to help with organization.
Tip: consider investing in adhesive fragile item labels to help ensure that boxes containing breakable items are treated with extra care.
6. Disorganized Packing
Speaking of labels, a systematic approach to packing increases efficiency and reduces the risk of your belongings being damaged during the move. Move room by room and pack non-essential items first. Once your moving date gets closer, consider packing away items you’ve used regularly but won’t need immediately. One way to stay organized is to create a spreadsheet that lists the items in each room and the boxes in which they are stored.
Strategic packing can also help you stay organized as you unpack. Consider numbering or color-coding each of the rooms in your new house and making signs to put on the door or next to the doorway. This cuts down on the amount of time you may spend hunting for items as you unpack.
7. Waiting Until the Last Minute
Starting your moving process early reduces stress, allows you to address unexpected issues, and avoid possible moving mistakes. That includes shopping around for moving companies. When you give yourself enough time to find a mover, pack, and plan for your move, you can be more flexible with your arrangements and avoid paying premiums. Waiting to find moving service providers will leave you with limited options, forced to accept what’s available.
8. Not Getting the Required Parking Permits
It’s an overlooked part of moving, but moving trucks are big. If you live in a major city or apartment complex, there’s a good chance your vehicle will block parking spaces, streets, or both. Secure the proper parking permits you’ll need for your movers. In addition, reach out to your neighbors in advance and let them know what’s happening. This lets them plan, thus avoiding a traffic jam while the truck is parked outside.
9. Not Packing an Essentials Box
There’s one important box the movers shouldn’t have to worry about: a box filled with the essentials. This box contains things you need immediate access to once you arrive at your new home. Passports, important documents, laptops, or other devices can go in this box, but don’t underestimate the importance of a shower curtain, hand soap, and a few rolls of toilet paper.
10. Forgetting to Change Your Address
As you prepare for your move, don’t forget the common moving mistake of forgetting to change your address. Changing your address with relevant parties ensures the continuity of important communications and services. Manually update this information as much as possible to reduce stress. In a pinch, changing your address through the USPS is fairly quick and will ensure most of your mail gets to your new home.
Comprehensive Guide: Military Moves with SwiftHaul
Moving in the military presents unique challenges and opportunities. With strict timelines, specific regulations, and various types of relocations, understanding the process can significantly ease the transition for service members and their families. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate military moves seamlessly with SwiftHaul.
Understanding Military Moves
Military relocations are quite different from civilian moves due to logistical challenges and specific guidelines. While civilians typically bear upfront expenses, military members often receive significant support for moving costs, albeit with certain restrictions on what can be transported.
Types of Military Moves
- Permanent Change of Station (PCS):
- Long-term move lasting 2-4 years, typically involving the service member's family.
- Can be CONUS (within the U.S.) or OCONUS (outside the U.S.).
- Temporary Additional Duty (TAD):
- Short-term assignments lasting less than six months, where the service member travels but remains at their current duty station.
- Temporary Duty (TDY):
Similar to TAD but specifically used by the Air Force and Army for short-term assignments.
Overview of the Military Moving Process
The moving process generally involves several critical steps:
- Receive Orders: Initiates the moving process.
- Schedule a Move Counseling Session: Addresses logistical concerns.
- Plan Logistics: Inventory belongings and arrange transportation.
- Pack and Load: Choose between self-packing or using SwiftHaul’s military moving services.
- Travel: Select your mode of transportation.
- Check-In: Report to your new command upon arrival.
Unpack and Settle In: Take time to acclimate to your new environment.
Planning Your Military Move
Creating a Moving Checklist
A detailed moving checklist helps maintain organization and minimize stress. Common checklist items include:
Before the Move
- Notify landlords or housing offices.
- Schedule counseling sessions.
- Create an inventory of belongings.
- Obtain medical and school records.
- Arrange pet care.
- Cancel local services.
During the Move
- Supervise packing and loading.
- Keep essential items with you.
- Conduct a final house cleaning.
After the Move
- Check in at the new duty station.
- Inspect delivered items.
- Update your address with the post office and essential contacts.
- Enroll children in school and set up utilities.
Setting a Timeline for Your Move
Military moves often follow a strict timeline based on unit directives. Familiarize yourself with key dates to manage the process effectively.
Understanding Military Orders
Military orders outline essential details for your move, including:
- Service member’s name and rank
- Current and new duty stations
- Reporting dates
- Type of move
- Travel and transportation allowances
Review orders carefully and keep copies accessible throughout the moving process.
Budgeting for Your Military Move
Understanding Military Reimbursements and Allowances
Service members may qualify for various reimbursements, including:
- Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT): Covers mileage.
- Dislocation Allowance (DLA): Assists with miscellaneous expenses.
- Personally Procured Move (PPM): Reimburses self-moves at a percentage of government costs.
Estimating Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Even with allowances, consider additional costs such as temporary lodging, utility setups, and new furniture. Keep detailed records of all expenses, as some may be tax-deductible.
Working with SwiftHaul
When planning your move, decide between a full-service move with SwiftHaul or a PPM. Each option has its benefits and trade-offs regarding control, costs, and flexibility.
Tips for Coordinating with Movers
- Start planning early.
- Create an inventory and label boxes clearly.
- Communicate any special handling needs.
Inspect items upon delivery and file claims promptly if needed.
Moving Overseas
International relocations require additional preparations:
- Check passport and visa requirements.
- Follow customs regulations for your destination.
- Understand shipping timelines and necessary adapters for appliances.
Managing Paperwork and Administrative Tasks
Keep essential documents easily accessible during the move, including:
- Military orders
- Identification and passports
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Medical records
Vehicle registration and insurance
Updating Your Records and Address
Don't forget to update your address with various entities, including the military personnel office, post office, banks, and insurance providers.
Conclusion
Navigating military moves can be challenging, but with careful planning and organization, the process can go smoothly. Utilize SwiftHaul’s resources, stay connected with your chain of command, and lean on fellow military families for support. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey!