Movers On Duty – Frequently Asked Questions
Moving FAQ: Before the Move
If you have any additional questions, please give us a call, and we’ll be happy to answer them!
General Questions
What are movers?
Movers are individuals that provide moving services, such as packing, loading, and transportation of furniture/boxes and personal possessions from one location to another.
They can also provide additional services such as storage and unpacking. Some movers specialize only in long-distance moves, while others focus only on local or intrastate moves.
It’s advisable to research and compare different movers to ensure that you find a reputable and reliable company that can meet your specific needs.
What services does Movers On Duty offer?
Movers On Duty provides moving, packing, unpacking, hauling, junk removal, cleanouts, and specialty services. We help with local moves, long-distance moves, packing, labor-only help, cleanouts, eviction moves, and more.
Please visit our Services Page for more details.
Where do you provide services?
We serve Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia.
We also handle long-distance moves to or from the DMV.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Movers On Duty is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Your belongings and property are protected. To learn more about us, please visit our About Us Page.
We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Standard insurance is included at no additional charge in all of our moves. Full-Coverage insurance can be purchased from our partner insurance agency Baker international.
Are your prices competitive?
Yes, our pricing structure is one of the most rewarding features of our services.
We strive to keep our prices as competitive and appealing as possible without compromising attention to detail or quality.
We offer the highest-quality moving services in the area!
Is everything included in your moving price?
Yes, our price for moving always includes everything. (Additional services offered: packing, unpacking, and junk removal)
There are NO minimum hours, NO additional charges for gas or for travel time and NO extra fees for supplies.
Do you use day labor?
NEVER. All our crews consist of trained, professional and uniformed full-time employees.
When is the best time to move?
The busiest times for moving companies are during the spring-summer months, May 15 – September 15. At the end of these months, the volume of shipments is extremely heavy. This is the case for all professional moving companies.
Take all the factors into consideration when deciding on the best time for you to move. If you have some flexibility in your schedule, provide the moving company with a five-day window for loading your shipment. This will allow the individuals who schedule the drivers and crew members greater flexibility when scheduling your move. If possible, be flexible with your destination timeframe as well. If you stay flexible, it should make a difference.
When should I begin contacting moving companies for estimates?
Try to provide the moving companies with as much notice as possible, especially if you are moving during the busy season as noted before. Six weeks from the actual move date is not too early for estimators to come into your home to complete what they refer to as a “visual survey of your household goods shipment.”
Add even more time to make a decision if you are obligated by your employer to submit estimates for approval. Try to decide which mover you will use four weeks from your actual load day. Call the mover to confirm your booking and schedule your packing, loading and delivery dates. This timeframe can be shortened in the off-peak season, which is September 16 through May 14.
How fast can movers complete a move?
That actually depends; please read our full article on how long a move usually takes to learn more.
What happens when a relocation consultant comes to my home?
A relocation consultant will visit your home to complete a visual survey of the items you plan to move. This typically takes about 15 minutes. Once the survey is complete, the consultant will calculate the cubic footage, packing costs, and any other charges related to your move.
Please note: To provide an accurate estimate, the relocation consultant must be able to clearly see everything that is being moved. Crawl spaces, attics, and cluttered closets can be misleading, so we recommend organizing your home before the visit.
Don’t be surprised if the consultant checks cabinets, closets, looks under beds, or on top of cabinets. This is necessary to identify items that will be moved or may require packing. If you have items that are not easily visible, be sure to point them out. Likewise, please identify any items you plan to eliminate so they are not included in the estimate.
One important tip that can help avoid issues on moving day: remove all items you do not plan to move before loading. If large items — such as an entire bedroom set — are expected to be eliminated but are not, there may not be enough space on the truck. This could affect the integrity of a binding estimate and, in some cases, cause the driver to run out of space.
How do I prepare my appliances before they are moved?
Appliances such as washers, dryers, and refrigerators must be disconnected prior to moving. If they are not ready, additional charges may apply.
Washers must also have a stabilizer installed before being moved. Installing the stabilizer is the customer’s responsibility.
Are you a broker or do you handle the move yourselves?
We are not brokers. All moves are handled by our own trained crews. We do not sell your move to another company.
Moving Services
Do you handle local moves?
Yes. We handle local moves for apartments, townhomes, condos, and single-family homes throughout the DMV.
Do you offer long-distance or out-of-state moving?
Yes. We provide long-distance moving services to or from the DMV, including direct move options. The best part is that we offer exact price moving quotes!
Can you move me from the DMV to another state?
Yes. If your move starts or ends in the DMV, we can help.
Do you offer exact price moving quotes?
Yes. We offer exact price moving quotes for moves to or from the DMV. The price is agreed on before moving day.
How can I save money when moving?
You can start by reading our guide on how to move for less if you want to save time and money when moving.
Do you charge by the hour or by the job?
We offer both, depending on the move. For many DMV moves, we recommend exact pricing to avoid surprises.
Packing Services
Do you pack for customers?
Yes. We offer full packing, partial packing, and fragile-only packing services.
Do you bring packing materials?
Yes. We provide boxes, wrapping paper, tape, and protective materials when packing is included.
Can you unpack after the move?
Yes. We offer unpacking services and can remove empty boxes if requested.
Labor-Only & Truck Services
Do you offer labor-only moving help?
Yes. We can help load or unload U-Haul trucks, PODS, storage units, or rental trucks.
Do you offer a truck with a driver?
Yes. In Maryland, you can rent a moving truck with a professional driver. Movers can be added if needed.
Cleanouts, Junk Removal & Hauling
Do you offer junk removal?
Yes. We remove furniture, household items, debris, and unwanted items.
Do you do cleanouts?
Yes. We handle:
Storage unit cleanouts
Estate cleanouts
Eviction cleanouts
Foreclosure and REO cleanouts
Hoarder cleanouts
Do you offer hauling services?
Yes. We haul furniture, appliances, heavy items, and bulk loads.
Evictions, Property & Specialty Services
Do you help with eviction moves?
Yes. We work with landlords, property managers, and attorneys for eviction-related moves and cleanouts.
Do you help with property turnovers?
Yes. We assist with move-outs, cleanouts, and prep for new tenants.
Do you help victims of domestic violence?
Yes. We offer respectful, discreet moving help for victims of domestic violence when possible.
Do you help sell properties as-is?
Yes. We connect property owners with investors who buy properties as-is, with no repairs needed.
Pricing & Scheduling
Are there hidden fees?
No. We believe in clear, upfront pricing. Any changes are discussed before work continues.
How far in advance should I book?
As early as possible, especially during busy seasons. Same-day or short-notice moves may be available.
Do you work weekends?
Yes. Weekend availability depends on scheduling.
Moving Day Questions
How long does a move take?
Move time depends on size, access, distance, and services requested. We explain this during the quote.
What if my move takes longer than expected?
For exact price moves, the price stays the same as long as the scope doesn’t change.
Do I need to be present on moving day?
Yes, or you can appoint someone you trust to be there.
Getting Started
How do I get a quote?
You can:
📞 Call Movers On Duty
💻 Request a quote online
We’ll walk you through the process clearly.
Why should I choose Movers On Duty?
Because we focus on:
Honesty
Professionalism
Clear communication
Real experience
We don’t rush jobs or play pricing games. We move people the right way.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions
How much do movers usually cost in the DMV?
Moving costs depend on the size of your move, distance, access, and services needed. That’s why we offer clear quotes — including exact price options for DMV moves — so you know the cost before moving day.
Do you offer same-day or last-minute moves?
Yes, when availability allows. Same-day and short-notice moves are handled on a case-by-case basis.
Can you move large or heavy items?
Yes. We move heavy furniture, appliances, safes, gym equipment, and oversized items safely and properly.
Do you disassemble and reassemble furniture?
Yes. We disassemble and reassemble beds, tables, desks, and other furniture as part of the move.
Do you protect floors and walls?
Yes. We use floor runners, padding, and protective materials to prevent damage.
What items can you not move?
We do not move hazardous materials such as:
Gasoline
Propane tanks
Firearms or ammunition
Chemicals or corrosives
If you’re unsure, ask us before moving day.
Do you move pianos or specialty items?
Yes, depending on size and access. Specialty items should be mentioned during the quote process.
Can you help with apartment or high-rise moves?
Yes. We regularly move apartments and high-rise units, including buildings with elevators and strict move-in rules.
Do you handle moves with elevators or long carries?
Yes. We plan for elevators, long hallways, stairs, and parking restrictions ahead of time.
Do you offer moving services for seniors?
Yes. We provide patient, respectful moving help for seniors and downsizing situations.
Do you help businesses or offices move?
Yes. We handle small office moves, commercial relocations, and business cleanouts.
Do you offer donation drop-offs?
Yes. If requested, we can haul usable items to donation centers.
Do you provide storage?
Short-term and long-term storage options may be available upon request.
What happens if something is damaged?
We are insured, and we explain coverage options clearly before the move.
Do you work with landlords or property managers?
Yes. We regularly work with landlords, property managers, banks, and investors.
Can you handle eviction-related moves legally?
Yes. We work in coordination with the proper authorities and follow local laws.
Can you clean out a property after a move?
Yes. We offer cleanouts and junk removal after move-outs, evictions, or foreclosures.
Do you help with hoarder cleanouts?
Yes. We provide respectful, judgment-free hoarder cleanout services.
Can you move items into or out of storage units?
Yes. We move items into storage units, out of storage units, and can clean them out completely.
What areas do you serve most often?
We frequently serve:
Maryland
Washington, DC
Northern Virginia
Including cities, counties, and surrounding areas.
How do I prepare for moving day?
Once booked, we provide clear guidance so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare.
Is tipping required?
Tipping is never required, but always appreciated if you feel the crew did a great job.
Why do people recommend Movers On Duty so much?
Because we:
Show up prepared
Communicate clearly
Price moves honestly
Treat people with respect
That consistency builds trust.
Moving FAQs: Packing
Moving FAQs: The Move