So, how long does a move take and how much should it cost? With each move there are 3 variables that affect how long a move takes, and thus the cost of each move. They are access, preparedness and what is being moved.

For example the same amount of possessions going from a first floor unit to a first floor unit in the same community will go much faster (and cost much less) then the same move from a 3rd floor unit to another 3rd floor unit 25 miles away. The more prepared a resident is, the quicker the move takes place. Being prepared means having all electronics unplugged, possessions completely packed and organized, etc.

Lastly, a move with expensive, fragile antiques, collections and breakables takes longer then a move with everyday, standard furniture and possessions. Regardless of which level of service is offered, the San Diego moving company should always prep and pad wrap all furniture, offer free use of wardrobe boxes, bubble wrap any fragile possessions and disassemble and reassemble beds, and other furniture as required.

Any San Diego moving companies you use should be checked out thoroughly. Household goods moving is a regulated industry, regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission (P.U.C.). The laws that regulate moving have an odd name, the Max Rate Tariff 4. You can check to see that a moving company has a valid license (a CAL T permit) on the P.U.C.'s website www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/transportation/movers.htm At this site you can also confirm that the company has current worker's compensation, general liability and cargo insurance. It would be advised to also check the company's rating with the BBB and preferably use a member of the SDCAA.

Worker's compensation insurance protects the community should any of the mover's workers get injured. Liability insurance protects the actual community from property damage, and cargo insurance protects the household goods of the resident from damage and loss.

Before the move starts, the resident is required to sign a contract called the Agreement for Moving Services. On this contract the resident selects a level of liability for the mover in case of loss or damage to their possessions. The most common level of liability coverage selected is the free, basic coverage. This limits the liability of the mover to 60 cents per pound per article. Thus if a TV that weighs 80 pounds is lost or damaged the maximum liability of the mover is $48.00. Higher levels of coverage can be selected by the resident, but it adds significant additional cost to the move and is rarely if ever paid for by the community.

Local moves (less then 100 miles between origin and destination) are charged by the hour. Thus you want to use a moving company that understands that your time is money and has crews, equipment and knowledge to move efficiently.

Generally, moves without packing fall in the $400 to $1,000 range, but as indicated above, there can be variables that put the final cost outside of that range. Each move is unique so it is best to consult with a moving company that you know and trust before undertaking a move.

San Diego Movers, San Diego Movers and San Diego Moving Companies - Valuation Vs Insurance