When should you book a moving company?

Maybe you’ve accepted a new job out of state or you're moving to be closer to family. No matter your reason for making a long-distance move, you might have questions about when you should reserve to ensure availability on moving day. So, when’s the best time to book a move? “As soon as possible” is the easy answer, and we know through our research that booking at least 2 to 3 months in advance is typically best for equipment and driver availability and getting the best rate.

Why should you hire movers in advance? 

Booking a move early usually gives you the benefit of getting on your preferred mover’s schedule for the dates you want. Advanced reservations also help secure the right equipment for your needs and lock in the best price. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to handle other things like making travel plans, packing and preparing to change your address. Check out this moving checklist to help keep you on track. 

What’s the least amount of notice needed to reserve a move? 

While you can probably get by with a last-minute local move, out-of-state moves generally require more notice. When you compare long-distance movers, you’ll find they’re all different. Some companies will need at least 90 days’ notice, and others might be able to handle a move in a shorter timeframe if they have equipment available. 

U-Pack® is a long-distance moving service with over 25 years of experience. Most of our customers make reservations during the recommended timeframe of two months ahead of the move or three months in advance during the busiest moving times like summer and around the holidays. We can schedule moves within the continental U.S. with less notice depending on availability. However, moves to or from Hawaii, Alaska, Canada and Puerto Rico generally need at least four weeks’ notice to secure moving equipment and handle any extra paperwork. 

But what if you need a last-minute long-distance move? 

At U-Pack, we understand that advanced notice isn’t always possible. If you need a quick out-of-state move, call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to one of our moving consultants. Depending on availability, we may be able to schedule a move in some locations with just a few days’ notice — though it might require some flexibility with the exact moving date and equipment type. 

How far in advance should you schedule moving labor? 

Companies that provide loading and unloading services also prefer as much notice as possible. It’s best if you hire moving crews at the same time you reserve a move. With a U-Pack move, we can refer you to loading and unloading crews at the time of booking. 

Ready to reserve your U-Pack move? 

It’s easy to get your free, no-obligation quote online, or call us at 844-362-5303844-594-3077. We’re happy to help! If you have any questions about booking your move or U-Pack services, please let us know in the comments.