Are Movers in High Demand? An Expert's Perspective

The demand for movers is on the rise, and it's no surprise. With an economy plagued by worker shortages, rising fuel costs, and health problems, moving companies across the country are struggling to keep up. It's an accident-prone industry, and customers could find themselves in trouble if they unknowingly hire a moving company that doesn't have liability or workers' compensation insurance. Angelo Tavare, a 50-year-old Bay Area moving agent who has been in and out of business for the past 30 years, says he has had to take four consecutive jobs a day for the first time in his career, even when environmental conditions are less than ideal. If you're looking to move during the high season, then the best time to hire a mover is at the beginning or end of the moving season.

According to an annual United Van Lines moving study released in January (focusing on states with more than 250 moves with United Van Lines), more people chose to move to Montana and Delaware to retire (41% of retirees move), followed by Florida (39%) and South Carolina (38.5%), while families most likely of moving to Minnesota (41% of all families move). Experienced carriers should be rewarded for their experience, efficiency, and ability to empathize with customers. A spokesman for Gentle Giant said several moving agents took voluntary leave due to family responsibilities and fears of contracting the virus when the Covid-19 crisis hit, restricting resources already depleted. Unlicensed moving companies also make things difficult for legitimate moving companies, which are now competing with offers from less experienced workers and more flexible deadlines. In fact, almost every state from which the most people moved were also popular destinations for other moving companies. Scheduling the move in early to mid-April or in September after Labor Day is a great way to achieve this.

You'll find yourself at an advantage if you schedule your moving agents for days that are a little less in demand. When an unauthorized moving company is caught, the state will work with them to obtain the license, but some violators receive citations, fines, and, in some cases, jail time. A new survey of 63 executives from long-distance moving companies shows that movers are struggling to keep their heads above water amid unprecedented demand and shortage. Gregor told Forbes Advisor Home that he researched companies that would perform door-to-door service (especially because hiring staff of movers was a blessing during the five years he lived in New York). It is difficult to find trucks for moving, prices to leave the bay are skyrocketing, and the supply side of the market - with high initial costs and because carriers must obtain state licenses - has been slow to respond. It's clear that movers are in high demand right now.

To ensure you get the best service possible when hiring a mover, make sure you do your research and hire a licensed mover who has experience in your area. Scheduling your move at the beginning or end of the season can also help you get better rates and service. And if you're looking for door-to-door service, make sure you research companies that offer it.