Why Professional Packers and Movers Make Moving Stress-Free
Professional packers and movers are trained specialists who handle every aspect of your relocation—from carefully wrapping your dishes to safely transporting your furniture across the country. Here’s what they do:
- Pack your belongings using specialized materials and techniques
- Load and transport items in professional moving trucks
- Unpack and place everything in your new home
- Handle fragile items with expert care and proper equipment
- Provide insurance coverage to protect your belongings during the move
Moving is consistently ranked as one of life’s most stressful events. Between coordinating logistics, protecting fragile items, and managing timelines, the process can quickly become overwhelming.
The average American moves 11 times in their lifetime, yet most people approach each move like it’s their first. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, knowing how professional services work can save you time, money, and countless headaches.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know—how the process works, what services to expect, and how to choose the right company for your needs.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers. After nearly 30 years helping families and businesses relocate throughout Chicago and 45 other states, I’ve learned that the right preparation turns an impossible task into a smooth, manageable process.
Professional Packers and Movers 101
When you’re planning a move, it’s easy to picture a few friends, a borrowed truck, and a lot of crossed fingers. But professional packers and movers bring something your friends can’t: expertise, accountability, and peace of mind. These licensed experts handle the difficult parts—from careful packing to navigating the rules of the moving industry—so your belongings get from point A to point B safely.
The world of moving is more regulated than most people realize, especially if you’re heading across state lines. Every reputable company must be properly licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and carry the right insurance. Why all the rules? Because moving means trusting someone with nearly everything you own—and that’s a big responsibility.
You’ll usually choose between two types of services: full-service or partial-service. Full-service means you can sit back while the pros handle everything—packing, loading, moving, and even unpacking in your new home. If you’d rather do some of it yourself, partial service lets you pick and choose what help you need. This flexibility makes it easy to find a solution that fits your budget and your timeline, whether you’re moving a studio apartment or a two-story house.
What Are Professional Packers and Movers?
Think of professional packers and movers as the ultimate moving team. They aren’t just strong—they’re trained in the best ways to protect your stuff. These crews know how to wrap, box, and pad even the trickiest items, from glassware to grand pianos.
Packing isn’t just about cramming things in boxes. The pros know the little tricks, like packing plates on their sides to reduce breakage, or cushioning glass with the right amount of padding. They bring the best materials for every job and label each box, so nothing gets lost in the shuffle.
When it comes time to load the truck, their skills really shine. They know how to distribute weight for safe transport, secure every box and piece of furniture, and maneuver even the bulkiest items through tight spaces—all without dinging your walls or your belongings.
Services You Can Expect
Today’s professional packers and movers do more than just haul boxes—they offer a full range of services to make your move smoother from start to finish.
For starters, furniture disassembly and reassembly is a lifesaver. Big pieces like beds or dining tables are carefully taken apart and put back together in your new place, saving you hours of frustration (and keeping your furniture damage-free).
If you have artwork, mirrors, or other fragile treasures, custom crating adds a protective layer that regular boxes just can’t match. It does add to the cost, but for irreplaceable items, it’s worth every penny.
Need a place to keep your things between homes? Many companies offer storage options—both short-term and long-term—in climate-controlled spaces to keep your belongings safe until you’re ready.
Planning a long-distance move and not sure how you’ll get your car there? Vehicle transportation lets you relax and travel light, even if you own multiple cars or motorcycles.
And if you want to lighten your load, waste removal and cleaning services help you clear out unwanted items. Some movers will even arrange for donations or proper disposal of things you can’t take along.
If you want to dive deeper into what’s included, check out our Packing, Loading & Storage page for details on how Bernard Movers takes care of every step.
With professional packers and movers on your side, you can focus on the excitement of your new home—not the stress of getting there.
How the Service Works: Step-by-Step
Knowing how the professional packers and movers process works can make your move feel much more manageable—and a lot less mysterious. Let’s walk through the big picture so you know exactly what to expect, when to expect it, and how to prepare.
The journey usually starts about 4–6 weeks before your move date. This gives you and your movers plenty of time to plan. Busy seasons (spring and summer) book up fast, so reach out early if you want first pick of dates.
Step one is booking and the initial consultation. A quick call or online form covers your addresses, home size, what you need moved, and ideal dates. Mention antiques, pianos, or other special requirements now.
Next comes the in-home or virtual survey. A walkthrough lets us see exactly what you’re moving, ensuring an accurate quote. Virtual surveys are quick and convenient; for unique or large homes, an in-person visit is still gold.
After the survey, we focus on planning and materials—from custom crates for artwork to wardrobe boxes for closets. We’ll also guide you through insurance options (basic released value vs. full value) and give you a list of prohibited items (hazardous chemicals, perishables, valuables, and more).
Throughout every stage, our goal as professional packers and movers is to keep things simple and stress-free. For a deeper dive into packing and storage, our Packing, Loading & Storage page has you covered.
Cost & Value Breakdown
Understanding what you’ll pay for professional packers and movers helps you budget with confidence.
Pricing falls into two main categories:
- Hourly rates – common for local moves, typically $60–$80 per hour, per crew member.
- Flat-rate quotes – standard for long distances; based on weight, mileage, and chosen services.
For packing-only jobs, some movers use box-count pricing (e.g., $30 per dish pack). Remember: fragile or oversized items can nudge totals upward.
Planning flexibility matters. Peak months (June–August) can run 20–30 % higher than off-season dates. Distance bands also affect cost: under 100 mi, 100–500 mi, 500–1,000 mi, and 1,000 + mi each have their own rate structures.
Watch for add-ons such as fuel surcharges, long carries, elevator or stair fees, parking permits, storage, and extra packing materials.
Average spend for packing services alone runs $300–$800. Full-service moves, including transport and unpacking, rise with home size and distance.
| Service Type | Packing Cost | Total Move Cost (National Average) |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Packing | $500–$800 | $2,300–$5,000 + |
| Partial Packing | $200–$400 | $900–$2,500 + |
Source: Expertise.com
How Pros Build Your Quote
Quotes reflect:
- Inventory size & weight
- Labor hours (stairs, fragile items, disassembly)
- Materials (bubble wrap, specialty cartons, custom crates)
- Access issues (parking, elevators, long carries)
- Fuel & tolls for long-distance jobs
Is It Worth It?
Most clients say yes, because pros deliver:
- Time savings – what takes you weekends, we finish in hours
- Damage reduction – trained crews and top-tier materials
- Liability transfer – movers assume responsibility once they pack
- Stress relief – focus on family and work, not boxes
For more details, see our Packing, Loading & Storage page. A smooth move is often the best value of all!
Smart Selection & Preparation
Finding the right professional packers and movers can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of relocating. The good news? A little preparation and research can help you avoid the horror stories and find a company that treats your belongings like their own.
The moving industry has its share of excellent companies alongside some less reputable operators. That’s why taking time to research properly isn’t just smart—it’s essential for protecting both your belongings and your wallet.
Quote comparison should involve at least three companies, but here’s the catch: don’t automatically go with the lowest bid. I’ve seen too many moves go wrong because someone chose a company based solely on price. Extremely low quotes often signal either inexperience or plans to surprise you with extra charges later. Look for detailed quotes that include all expected services and fall within a reasonable range of each other.
License and insurance verification is absolutely non-negotiable for interstate moves. Every legitimate moving company must have a USDOT number and proper insurance coverage. You can verify these credentials through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website—it takes just a few minutes and can save you from major headaches.
Reviews require more than just glancing at star ratings. Take time to read detailed reviews to understand what really happens during moves. Pay attention to mentions of damage claims, hidden fees, or delivery delays. Also notice how companies respond to complaints—that tells you a lot about their customer service philosophy.
Pre-move decluttering isn’t just about simplifying your life (though that’s a nice bonus). Since professional movers charge based on weight and volume, every item you don’t move saves money. That exercise bike you haven’t used in two years? Those books gathering dust? Consider whether they’re worth the cost of moving them.
Booking timelines vary dramatically by season. During peak moving season from May through September, you’ll want to book 4-6 weeks in advance. Off-peak moves can often be scheduled with 2-3 weeks notice, but popular dates still fill up quickly—especially around holidays and month-ends.
For local moves in the Chicago area, our Local Moving services provide the expertise and reliability you need for a smooth transition.
Choosing the Right Professional Packers and Movers
The selection process becomes much easier when you know what to look for. Think of it as interviewing candidates for a very important job—because that’s exactly what you’re doing.
In-home estimates are worth insisting on for any significant move. Virtual estimates are convenient, but they can miss important details that affect pricing. During the estimate, pay attention to whether the representative asks detailed questions about your belongings and any special requirements. A good estimator will notice things like narrow hallways, flights of stairs, or valuable items that need special handling.
Written contracts should spell out everything clearly—services, costs, pickup and delivery dates, and liability coverage. Never accept a verbal agreement or sign a contract with blank spaces that could be filled in later. If something seems unclear, ask questions until you understand completely. A reputable company will be happy to explain their terms.
Valuation coverage deserves careful thought. Basic released value coverage at 60 cents per pound sounds official, but it provides minimal real protection. If your 50-pound flat-screen TV gets damaged, you’d receive just $30. Full replacement value coverage costs more upfront but provides much better protection for your belongings.
Watch out for these red-flag warning signs: door-to-door solicitation, requests for large cash deposits, no local address or proper licensing, estimates significantly lower than others, inability to provide references, or consistently poor online reviews. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
Before hiring any professional packers and movers, verify their USDOT number and MC number, state licensing requirements, insurance certificates, Better Business Bureau rating, and recent customer references. These documents tell the real story about a company’s legitimacy and track record.
Getting Ready for Move Day
Proper preparation can make the difference between a smooth move and a chaotic disaster. The key is handling the details before moving day arrives, so you can focus on the bigger picture.
Utility transfers need more lead time than most people realize. Contact your electric, gas, water, internet, and cable companies to schedule disconnection at your old home and connection at your new one. Plan for these services to be active when you arrive—there’s nothing quite like showing up to a house with no electricity or running water.
Planning for kids and pets is crucial since moving day tends to be controlled chaos. Consider arranging childcare or pet boarding for the day, or at least ensure they have a safe, quiet space away from all the activity. Moving trucks, open doors, and stressed adults don’t mix well with curious children or anxious pets.
Items that movers won’t handle include hazardous materials like paint, propane, and cleaning chemicals, plus perishable food, plants, important documents, and high-value items like jewelry or cash. Plan to transport these items yourself—it’s safer and often required by law.
Create an essentials box with everything you’ll need for your first night: medications, toiletries, change of clothes, phone chargers, snacks, and important documents. Keep this box with you during the move rather than loading it on the truck.
Elevator reservations and parking permits might be required in urban areas or apartment buildings. Check with building management about reserving elevators and obtaining necessary permits for the moving truck. These details seem small but can cause major delays if overlooked.
Frequently Asked Questions about Professional Packers and Movers
What items will professional packers and movers not handle?
When you trust your move to professional packers and movers, there are a few things you need to know about what can—and can’t—go on the truck. For safety and legal reasons, there are some items that we just can’t take, no matter how much bubble wrap you offer us!
First up: hazardous materials. This includes things like paint cans, propane tanks, fireworks, cleaning chemicals, and anything flammable or explosive. Federal and state laws keep us all safe by making sure these don’t hitch a ride in moving trucks. If you’re not sure what counts, just ask us—we’ll help you sort it out.
Perishable goods are also off-limits. That means no frozen pizzas, milk, or produce. Even plants are usually excluded, especially if you’re moving long-distance. The reason? Food and plants can spoil or die in transit, and plants can also spread pests or diseases across state lines.
If you have firearms or ammunition, the rules are a little trickier. Most professional packers and movers don’t have the permits to move these items, so it’s best to transport them yourself, following all applicable laws.
Valuables and important documents—think jewelry, cash, passports, and family keepsakes—are safest when you keep them with you. While we take great care of your belongings, moving insurance usually doesn’t cover sentimental or high-value items to their full worth.
So, to sum up: if it’s dangerous, perishable, illegal, or irreplaceable, you’ll want to handle it yourself. We’ll give you a clear list as you plan, so there are no surprises on move day.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking your move with professional packers and movers is a bit like snagging a good table at a busy restaurant—the earlier, the better!
During the busy peak season (May through September), we recommend you book 4–6 weeks ahead. This is especially important if you need to move on a weekend or have a specific date in mind. Summer is the moving world’s version of rush hour, thanks to school breaks and sunny weather.
For off-peak season moves (October through April), you might be able to book with just 2–3 weeks’ notice. But, watch out for holidays—those can fill up fast too. If you need special services like international shipping or custom crating, giving us more advance notice is always a good idea.
If you’re eyeing a move to Georgia or Florida, don’t forget—Bernard Movers is offering a 20% bonus discount for deliveries to those states booked by March 15, 2025. (A little planning can save you a lot!)
Are insurance and liability coverage included?
Every move with professional packers and movers includes some kind of insurance, but it’s important to know exactly what’s covered.
The standard option is released value coverage, which is included at no extra cost. This gives you coverage at 60 cents per pound, per item. So, if your 50-pound TV is damaged, you’d get $30—even if the TV cost a lot more.
Want better protection? You can choose full replacement value coverage for an extra fee. This means if something is lost or damaged, we’ll repair, replace, or reimburse you for the item’s current value (not just by weight).
If you’re looking for even more peace of mind, third-party moving insurance is available. These policies, from companies that specialize in moving, can offer broader protection than either of the standard moving coverages.
If you have questions about what’s covered, or want help picking the right level of insurance, just ask us. We’re here to help you have a smooth—and well-protected—move.
Conclusion
Choosing professional packers and movers is one of the smartest ways to turn a stressful move into a smooth experience. When you have experts handling your packing, loading, and transport, you save precious time, avoid damaging your favorite things, and get the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re in good hands.
The secret to a successful move is all about preparation. Take the time to research your options, compare multiple quotes, and always double-check those credentials. The lowest price isn’t always the best deal—what really matters is finding a team that’s reliable, careful, and offers the right insurance coverage.
Whether you’re moving down the block or across the country, professional packers and movers make the journey much easier. With their expertise, your belongings are handled with care, and you can actually look forward to settling into your new home instead of dreading the process.
At Bernard Movers, we know every move is unique. Our crews have nearly 30 years of experience helping individuals, families, and businesses relocate with confidence. We’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you every step of the way, from your very first question to the final box placed in your new space.
And because we love giving people more reasons to smile, we’re happy to share a special offer: Get a 20% bonus discount on moves to Georgia and Florida when you book for delivery by March 15, 2025. It’s our way of making your move not just easier, but also more affordable.
To find out more about our services—or to claim your discount—visit our Affordable Moving Company Chicago page. Let Bernard Movers make your next move your best move yet!
Safe travels and happy moving!