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How Long Does a Move Usually Take?

How Long Does a Move Usually Take?

Planning for a move can be stressful, and one of the most common questions we hear is, “How long will my move take?”

At Movers On Duty, we understand that time is valuable, and we want to make your moving day as smooth and efficient as possible.

While every move is unique, there are some general timeframes you can expect based on the size of your home and the distance of the move.

 

how long moving takes

Factors That Influence Moving Time

Every move is different, and many factors can affect the time it takes:

  • Packing and preparation: Moves go faster when items are packed and ready to go. If you need help with packing, we offer services to make things easier.
  • Client preferences: Some clients prefer to stay involved in the move, which can slow things down while others give our movers space to work efficiently.
  • Home layout and distance: Things like stairs, elevators, or the distance between your current and new place also play a role.
  • Stairs, elevators, and long walkways: These can add time, especially if there are multiple floors.
  • Specialty items: Heavy or delicate items like pianos or antiques may need extra care.
  • Amount of furniture and belongings: The more items you have, the more time it takes to load and unload.

 


 

Factors affecting moving time

 


How long should moving take?

1. Studio or One-Bedroom Apartment

Average Time: 2-5 Hours

For a small apartment, most moves can be completed in a few hours. This typically includes loading, transporting, and unloading. If you’re moving within the same building or very nearby, the time can often be even shorter.

how long does moving take

2. Two-Bedroom Home or Apartment

Average Time: 4-7 Hours

With a bit more space and belongings to handle, two-bedroom homes generally take a few additional hours. This time estimate accounts for careful packing and safe handling of furniture and other items.

how long does moving take on average

3. Three-Bedroom Home

Average Time: 6-9 Hours

For three-bedroom homes, moving can take the majority of the day. We allocate extra time to ensure that everything is handled properly, especially larger furniture and fragile items. Moving day can be longer depending on the distance or the amount of items to be moved.

how long should moving take

4. Larger Homes (Four Bedrooms or More)

Average Time: 8+ Hours

For larger homes, moves can take a full day or longer, particularly if you’re moving to a new city or state. Our team can work efficiently to make the process as smooth as possible, and we can also provide additional crew members if needed to complete the move faster.

how long moving take on average


How Long Does a Move Usually Take With Movers On Duty?

At Movers On Duty, we often get asked, “How long will my move take?” and although our movers are much faster than our competitors, we can’t really say.

While we understand the importance of planning, we honestly don’t like guesstimating because we feel like we are just lying to you…

In order to get a more accurate estimate, we would need to see exactly what you are moving, and we would need to calculate the exact distance. And don’t forget about the other details, such as traffic, amount of items, long walks, stairs, or elevators.

So, instead, we believe in charging only for the actual time our movers work—nothing more. That means you won’t get any unnecessary delays or wasted time with us.

We charge by the hour, so you only pay for the time our guys work for you. They won’t take unnecessary breaks, they won’t be smoking while on the job, no milking the clock…

Here’s how we ensure an efficient, straightforward experience:

Hourly Rates with No Surprises

With Movers On Duty, you pay by the hour, which means you only pay for the time our team spends moving your belongings. Unlike some moving companies, we don’t give time estimates over the phone because, as any seasoned mover knows, true accuracy requires seeing the specifics of the job. Instead, we focus on doing the work promptly and with full transparency.

 

How long should my move take?

Our Efficiency Guarantee

We understand that time is money. That’s why we guarantee our movers are there to work—not to chat, use phones, or take smoke breaks. Our team is fully focused on your move from start to finish, so you can rest assured that every minute spent is productive.

This is why we have great reviews online:

How long does a move take?

 


Why Choose Movers On Duty?

At Movers On Duty, we prioritize efficiency and professionalism. Our experienced team of movers works hard to complete your move on time and within budget, all while handling your belongings with the utmost care. We’ll always be transparent about costs and timing so you can plan your day with confidence.

Need help with your next move? Contact us today for a free quote, and let’s make your moving day stress-free!

How to Move for Less

How to Move for Less in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C.

How to Save Money When Moving: 7 Smart Tips to Save Money

Moving can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re relocating within Maryland, Virginia, or Washington, D.C., there are plenty of ways to reduce your moving costs without sacrificing quality.

At Movers On Duty, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees, but we also know that many clients want tips on how to save even more.

Here are 7 strategies to help you move for less while keeping your sanity intact.


1. Declutter Before You Move

The fewer items you have, the less you’ll need to move. Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter your home and get rid of things you no longer need. Go through your belongings and decide what you can donate, sell, or recycle. The less you pack, the more you save on packing supplies and time spent moving.

  • Tip: Donate unwanted items to local charities or hold a yard sale to earn a little extra cash before moving day. Consider selling items in good condition that you no longer use. And just so you know, we also offer junk removal services.

2. Choose the Right Time to Move

Timing can have a big impact on moving costs. The busiest times for movers are typically weekends, the end of the month, and during the summer season. If possible, schedule your move during off-peak times, such as weekdays or in the middle of the month.

  • Tip: Moving in the fall or winter can also lead to lower rates since demand is usually lower during these seasons.

3. Pack Yourself to Save on Labor Costs

While professional packing services are convenient, doing some or all of the packing yourself can save you money. Gather packing supplies like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap, and start packing well in advance. Just be sure to pack carefully to avoid damaging your items during the move.

  • Tip: Ask local stores for free boxes or use household items like towels and blankets to protect fragile items. You can find expert packing guidelines here.

4. Compare Moving Quotes

Don’t settle for the first moving quote you get. It’s important to compare estimates from different moving companies in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. Keep in mind, however, that the cheapest quote may not always be the best. Some companies lure you in with low estimates but add hidden fees later. Always check online reviews!

  • Why Movers On Duty? We provide upfront, exact pricing with no hidden costs, so the price you see is the price you’ll pay—no surprises on moving day!

How to save money when moving


5. Plan Ahead to Avoid Last-Minute Costs

Rushed moves tend to cost more. By planning your move early, you can avoid last-minute expenses such as premium rates for booking movers last minute or expedited packing services. Take your time to organize, schedule, and book your move well in advance to secure the best rates.

  • Tip: Get a free, contactless, no-obligation instant online quote to have an idea of how much your move should cost.

6. Downsize Your Truck Rental

If you’re handling your own move with a rental truck, choose the smallest truck that fits your needs. This reduces both the rental and fuel costs. When hiring professional movers like Movers On Duty, you don’t have to worry about this—we’ll assess your needs and send the appropriately sized truck, so you don’t pay for more than you need.

If you do rent a truck and need professional driving help, please feel free to let us know.

save money when moving


7. Skip the Extras You Don’t Need

Many moving companies offer additional services like storage, special handling for valuables, or full-service packing/unpacking. While these options can be helpful, they come at an extra cost. Decide if you truly need these add-ons or if you can manage without them.

These are all the services we offer.


Move with Movers On Duty and Save More

At Movers On Duty, we understand the importance of staying within your budget. Our straightforward, hourly pricing model ensures that you’re not caught off guard by hidden fees or unexpected charges. Plus, our movers handle disassembly and reassembly of furniture at no extra cost, helping you save even more.

Furniture protection is also included.


Ready to move for less? Contact Movers On Duty for a no-obligation, upfront quote and discover why we’re the trusted choice for affordable moves in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.!

How to Move for Less

Moving with kids

moving with kids

Moving with Kids: Turn Boxes into Treasure Hunts and Boxes of Smiles

Embarking on a move with little ones in tow may seem daunting, but fear not! With a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of imagination, we can transform the moving process from a chore into an exhilarating adventure.

So, grab your explorer’s bag and join us as we embark on a journey filled with fun activities and memorable moments!

moving with children

Continue reading “Moving with kids”

Moving with pets

moving with pets

Moving with Pets: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Moving can be stressful for everyone involved, including our beloved pets.

Whether you’re moving locally across town or moving long-distance across the country, it’s essential to plan ahead and take steps to ensure a smooth transition for your furry companions.

In this blog post, we’ll share expert tips and advice to help you navigate the moving process with your pets, from preparation and travel to settling into your new home.

pet moving

Continue reading “Moving with pets”

Self-Moving

self moving

Mastering the Art of Self-Moving: A DIY Guide to a Smooth Relocation

Are you planning a move and considering a hands-on approach?

Self-moving can be a rewarding experience when done right.

It requires careful planning, organization, and physical effort, but it allows for greater control over the moving timeline and the overall moving experience.

 


 

In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful DIY relocation.

 


What does self-moving mean?

“Self-moving” refers to the process of handling a relocation or move on your own, without hiring a professional moving company to assist with various aspects of the move.

In a self-move, individuals or families take on the responsibility of packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking their belongings without external assistance.

Moving yourself can save you a lot of money when you have Movers On Duty on your corner.

 

self moving tips

1. Create a Detailed Plan:

Start by outlining a comprehensive moving plan. Identify key tasks such as sorting belongings, packing, transportation, and unpacking. Having a clear roadmap will help you stay organized throughout the process.

Feel free to use our free moving planner powered by artificial intelligence!

2. Declutter and Downsize:

Before packing, take the opportunity to declutter your belongings. Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need. A lighter load not only simplifies the moving process but also saves on transportation costs.

This article about home down-sizing and decluttering will definitely help!

By the way, we can also help with junk removal.

3. Gather Packing Supplies:

Collect sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and other essential packing supplies. Properly packing your items ensures they arrive at your new destination in excellent condition. Label boxes with their contents and destination room for easy unpacking.

Don’t want to spend money on packing supplies? Learn where to get free boxes from <–

Or remember that when you hire our packing services, we might be able to give you all the packing supplies completely free of charge or at a discounted price!

 

what does self moving mean

4. Rent a Suitable Vehicle:

If you’re handling the transportation yourself, rent a suitable vehicle. Ensure it has enough space for your belongings and that you’re comfortable driving it. Plan your route in advance, considering factors like traffic and road conditions.

Don’t want to drive the truck yourself? No problem! We also offer rented truck drivers for hire.

 

self moving guide

5. Enlist Help:

Even if you’re opting for a self-move, enlisting friends or family to help with packing and loading can make the process more efficient and enjoyable. Offer refreshments and pizza as a token of appreciation for their assistance.

If you don’t have anyone you can count on, please remember that we can provide movers with a truck or movers without a truck if you only need the movers.

 

self moving companies

6. Stay Organized During Transportation:

Pack strategically to maximize space and minimize the risk of damage. Use blankets or furniture pads to protect delicate items. Secure everything in the vehicle to prevent shifting during transit.

Read how to load your truck or container like the experts.

Learn how Movers On Duty would protect your furniture for moving HERE.

 

self moving rates

7. Set Up a Comfortable Unpacking Zone:

Designate a specific area in your new home for unpacking. Having a central location makes it easier to sort and organize your belongings. Unpack systematically, starting with essentials.

Our unpacking services might come in handy at this point. Our professional organizers are great!

 

self service moving

8. Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated:

Moving is physically demanding, so remember to take breaks and stay hydrated. Pace yourself to avoid burnout and ensure a positive moving experience.

Remember to breath…

9. Update Your Address and Utilities:

Don’t forget to update your address with relevant institutions, such as the post office, banks, and utilities. Ensure that utilities are set up at your new residence before moving in.

10. Celebrate Your Success:

Once you’ve successfully completed your self-move, take a moment to celebrate your accomplishment. You’ve conquered the challenges of moving on your terms!

Embark on your self-moving journey with confidence using these practical tips. Remember, it’s all about careful planning and execution. Safe travels!

 

moving yourself

Did this guide make it easier for you to do a self-move?

Free Moving Plan

moving plan free

Unlock a Seamless Move: Your Personalized Free Moving Plan

At Movers On Duty, we believe every move is unique, and your journey to a new home deserves a plan tailored to your needs.

Introducing our AI-powered moving assistant’s standout feature: Your Personalized Free Moving Plan.

 

free moving plan

Why a Personalized Moving Plan?

Tailored to You

No two moves are alike, and your moving plan shouldn’t be either. Our AI meticulously analyzes your moving details, preferences, and timeline to generate a personalized plan. This isn’t just a template—it’s your virtual moving expert crafting a plan that ensures your move is as smooth as possible.

Continue reading “Free Moving Plan”

Mover Of The Year

Best mover of the year

🌟 Celebrating Excellence: Dalmar Payne – Mover of the Year! 🌟

Today, we take immense pride in honoring one of our own, the heartbeat of our team – Mr. Dalmar Payne! 🎉🚚

best mover

 

Why Dalmar is the Best:

For several years, Dalmar has driven our commitment to excellence.

His dedication and hard work have set a benchmark for Movers On Duty and made him the unparalleled Mover of the Year.

Always on time and always ready!

 

👏 No Complaints, No Claims – Pure Excellence:

Dalmar’s track record speaks for itself.

Not a single complaint or claim against his name.

His meticulous approach to every move and genuine care for our clients’ belongings have made him the epitome of professionalism.

best mover of the year

who is the best mover

 

 

🌐 Serving the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC Area:

Dalmar’s impact extends far and wide, reaching every corner of the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC area. His commitment to excellence has made our clients’ moves seamless and earned him the trust and respect of our entire community.

 

🔧 Behind the Scenes Excellence: Beyond the visible efforts, Dalmar’s work ethic and positive attitude behind the scenes have been instrumental in creating a harmonious and efficient work environment for our entire team.

 

 


 

Dalmar, your dedication and passion have not gone unnoticed!

Movers On Duty is honored to have you as a cornerstone of our success. Here’s to many more years of excellence!

 


 

🎊 Cheers to Dalmar Payne – Mover of the Year! 🎊

 

best mover md

 

#MoversOnDuty #BestMover #DalmarMoverOfTheYear #MoversOnDutyExcellence #MoverOfTheYear #MoversWhoCare #Movers #BestMovers

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Dalmar Payne

 

Best review of the year:

Dalmar Payne best mover

international moving companies gaithersburg

international moving

Shipping Solutions Worldwide: Your Trusted Partner for Safe and Reliable International Moving

One of the best International moving companies in Gaithersburg Maryland

As an authority in the moving industry, we highly recommend Shipping Solutions Worldwide for anyone who needs to move internationally. With over 3 decades of international moving experience, they have established themselves as a leader in the industry, providing safe, reliable, and efficient service to customers around the world.

One of the things that set Shipping Solutions Worldwide apart from other international moving companies in Gaithersburg is its commitment to transparency.

They provide detailed quotes that include all costs and fees, so customers can be confident that there won’t be any surprises down the line. They also use only the highest quality packing materials and employ experienced and trained professionals to handle every aspect of the move.

international moving companies gaithersburg maryland

Are you moving internationally from or to Gaithersburg? Get a quick quote now!

International moving quote
(e.g. +1-555-555-1212)
City, State, Province
City, State, Province
Please include as much information as possible (including preferred dates and special requirements or requests).

international moving company gaithersburg

International moving services Gaithersburg MD

As people continue to move and relocate around the world, the need for reliable and trustworthy international moving companies has never been higher.

Shipping Solutions Worldwide is a company with over 30 years of experience in the industry, and its expertise and commitment to quality make them a top choice for anyone who needs to move overseas.

international moving company gaithersburg

Best international moving company in Gaithersburg

When it comes to international moving, there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important is cost.

Shipping Solutions Worldwide offers competitive pricing, but what sets them apart is their dedication to transparency.

They provide detailed quotes that include all costs and fees, so customers can be confident that they won’t be hit with unexpected expenses.

international movers gaithersburg

Shipping Solutions Worldwide

Another important factor in international moving is logistics.

Shipping Solutions Worldwide has an extensive network of partners and agents around the world, which allows them to provide comprehensive door-to-door service. From packing and loading to customs clearance and delivery, they handle every aspect of the move with professionalism and efficiency.

Of course, the most important thing when choosing an international moving company is trustworthiness. Shipping Solutions Worldwide has a long track record of providing safe, reliable, and secure service. They use only the highest quality packing materials and employ experienced and trained professionals to handle every aspect of the move.

shipping solutions worldwide reviews

But what about the data? What sets Shipping Solutions Worldwide apart from other international moving companies?

According to their data, they have a 97% customer satisfaction rate, which speaks volumes about the quality of their service. Additionally, they have a 99.5% on-time delivery rate, which means customers can count on their belongings arriving when they’re supposed to.

In terms of destinations, Shipping Solutions Worldwide can handle moves to over 200 countries around the world. Some of the most popular destinations for their customers include the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. They also offer specialized services for moves to and from Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

Overall, if you’re looking for an international moving company with decades of experience, a commitment to quality and transparency, and a proven track record of success, Shipping Solutions Worldwide is an excellent choice. Contact them today to learn more about their services and get started on your move.

Have you ever had a bad experience with this international moving company based out of Gaithersburg MD?

Create a productive home office

Boost Your Productivity with These Essential Tips and Tools for Creating a Home Office

Create a productive home office – Because you definitely can!

Creating a productive home office doesn’t need to be a daunting task, regardless of whether you possess an abundance of space or are restricted within a limited area.

Without spending extravagantly on the setup.

Here are a few tips and tools to help you get started and establish an ideal work environment at home:

 

1. Find a suitable workspace:

Select a dedicated space that is free from distractions, quiet, and has enough room to keep all of your important work materials at arm’s reach.

Make sure the space is calming and promotes concentration.

Creating a Home Office

2. Invest in a comfortable chair:

You will be spending hours in that chair, so investing in a comfortable, ergonomic chair is crucial.

Don’t hesitate to invest a few extra bucks on a chair that caters to your needs and provides good support to prevent any back pain.

improve your home office

3. Organize your desk:

A well-organized workspace will increase your productivity and reduce clutter, making it easier to focus on your work.

Get rid of any unnecessary items and file away your papers neatly.

Organization services

4. Plan your lighting:

Insufficient or dull lighting can quickly lead to eye strain and headaches.

Plan accordingly and make sure to have adequate light to work comfortably throughout the day.

Productive home office

Creating a productive home office doesn’t have to be an expensive or difficult task.

By following these simple tips, you can create a functional and organized workspace to help you stay productive and focused throughout the day.

Do you need help moving your home office?

The Movers On Duty team can definitely help!

Our professional movers can handle any residential or commercial moving job.

 

money-saving-tips

tips to save money when moving

Best tips for saving money when planning a move

Do you want to know how to save money when moving? Here are 30 money-saving tips:

 

But please remember that a phone call with us can save you even more money!

We are the only movers that actually care about your budget.

how to save money when moving

 

  1. The earlier you start planning your move, the more time you will have to compare prices and find the best deals or companies.
  2. Contact multiple moving companies to get quotes and compare prices. Ask for flat rates. You have the right to know how much your move will cost before the movers even show up.
  3. Before you move, go through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need. Decluttering will not only save you money on moving costs, but it will also make unpacking at your new home a lot easier.
  4. Packing your own belongings can save you money on labor costs. Be sure to use high-quality, durable boxes and packing materials to protect your belongings during the move. Get cheap boxes here or hire us to pack for you!
  5. Consider getting free packing materials if you are handling the packing yourself: Many retailers will give away boxes and packing materials for free. Check with local beer & wine stores, and grocery stores, or search online for free boxes. Learn more ways to get free boxes here.
  6. Consider moving during the off-peak season: Moving during the summer, holidays, or on weekends can be more expensive, so consider moving during the off-peak season or on weekdays to save money.
  7. Never pay for services you don’t need: Many moving companies offer additional services such as packing, crating, unpacking, and storage. If you don’t need these services, don’t pay for them.
  8. Rent a truck or use a moving container: Hire a moving company to load the truck for you, consider renting a truck or using a moving container. This can be a cost-effective alternative, but it requires more effort and planning. We provide movers without a truck. By the way, we can drive your rented truck.
  9. Take advantage of any discounts available: Some companies offer senior, military, or student discounts. So, be sure to ask about them.
  10. Compare different moving insurance options: Moving insurance can vary in cost and coverage, and not all policies are equal. Be sure to compare different options and choose the one that best meets your needs.
  11. Always ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, or co-workers for recommendations on moving companies. Personal referrals can be a good way to find a reliable and cost-effective company.
  12. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with moving companies. If you have some flexibility on the dates, you’re able to secure a better deal, you can definitely save money on your move.
  13. Self-moving?: Consider doing as much of the move yourself as possible. This can include disassembling furniture, packing the boxes, loading and unloading the moving truck, unpacking the boxes, and even driving the truck if you decide to rent one.
  14. Sell or donate unwanted items: Instead of paying to move items you no longer want or need, consider selling them or donating them to charity. This can help offset the cost of your move.
  15. Instead of paying for storage, consider using a friend’s or family member’s garage or basement to store your belongings temporarily.
  16. Be aware of hidden costs such as taxes, fuel surcharges, and additional fees that can add up quickly. Be sure to ask about these costs upfront so you can budget accordingly.
  17. Instead of buying new packing materials, use old newspapers, linens, and clothing to wrap and protect your belongings.
  18. Consider moving during the week: Not only moving during the off-peak season but also moving during the weekdays can reduce costs, as the demand for moving services tends to be lower.
  19. Research and Compare moving insurance options: As mentioned before, moving insurance can vary in cost and coverage, so research and compare different options to ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs at a reasonable price.
  20. Rent moving equipment if moving yourself: Instead of buying equipment such as dollies, furniture pads, and furniture sliders, consider renting them. This can save you money and you’ll only have to pay for what you use.
  1. Rent a portable moving container like PODS: Instead of renting a traditional moving truck, consider renting a portable moving container. This can be a cost-effective alternative and can also provide more flexibility and convenience. This is recommended for long-distance moving.
  2. Use our free online moving calculator: There are several online moving calculators that can help you estimate the cost of your move. This can be a helpful tool to budget your move and find ways to cut costs.
  3. Take advantage of utility company discounts: Some utility companies offer discounts for customers who are moving. Be sure to check with your current and new utility providers to see if they offer any discounts.
  4. Keep track of your moving expenses, including the cost of packing supplies, fuel, and any other expenses related to your move. This can help you stay within budget and identify areas where you can cut costs.
  5. The less you have to move, the less it will cost. Consider getting rid of items you no longer need or use to reduce the amount you have to move.
  6. Consider hiring professional moving helpers: Professional moving helpers can help you load and unload the moving truck, they can be less expensive than hiring a full-service moving company and they can save you time and effort.
  7. Be flexible with your move-in date: If you’re able to be flexible with your move-in date, you may be able to find a better deal on moving services.
  8. Look for discounts and special offers: Many moving companies offer discounts and special offers, so be sure to ask about them when getting quotes.
  9. Compare the costs of renting a truck versus hiring a professional moving company. Including the cost of fuel, mileage, insurance, and tolls.
  10. Keep your valuables close: Instead of packing your valuables and shipping them with the rest of your belongings, consider keeping them close to you during the move.

 

There are many money-saving tips for when moving but do you think there is something missing that should be on this top 30?

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