Moving Tips
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Moving Tips
Packing yourself certainly can save you money in a lot of cases, but it is necessary to consider the time and effort needed to properly protect your belongings. To keep damage to a minimum, it is strongly recommended that you allow a professional mover to pack any fragile or valuable items.
When you use a professional moving company, you can decide, if you choose to do some or all of the packing yourself, or you can leave it all to the experts. Discuss your options with your moving company.
If you decide to pack yourself, you need to assure that all your items are properly packed, wrapped and ready to load, when your movers arrive.Â
For your moving company to be able to load, transport and unload your items, your belongings need to be packed according to moving standards. Check for any cartons or boxes that are torn or damaged or could be damaged, because they are improperly packed. Your movers will inspect your packed items to make sure that none of them will be exposed to potential damage, due to improper packing during the transport.
Consider what items you need the night before or the morning of your move and keep these items separate.Â
When packing your garage, sheds or attics, consider giving items away that you might not need anymore.
Even though you might be inclined to use non moving specific packing materials for your belongings, you might want to reconsider. Using new and moving specific materials will make it easier for you to pack and will ensure that your items will reach their destination safely.
Your moving company has a variety of boxes and other packing materials available that will fit your need.
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In general you can expect your moving company to wrap and pad your furniture and major appliances. If you do have items that require professional disassembly and/or crating – such as pool tables, pianos, or large glass table tops – it is recommended to leave those furnishings to be taken care of by your professional mover.Â
The following items are some of the items that the moving companies, by federal law or internal policy, cannot transport.
To understand, what applies to your move, please contact your moving company for a full list of items.
Hazardous Materials
Items that are flammable, corrosive or explosive
• Aerosols
• Ammunition
• Charcoal lighter fluid
• Fireworks
• Gasoline
• Kerosene
• Matches
• Paint thinner
• Nail polish remover
• Paints
• Propane tanks
Perishable Items
For example, food, plants or living things that may die or spoil in transit.
• Frozen foods
• Plants
• Produce
• Refrigerated foods
Items of personal importance or sentimental value
• Cash or credit cards
• Deeds or wills
• Important documents (including moving documents)
• Family photographs
• Precious jewelry
• Stamp or coin collections
• Any other valuable items
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Did the entire move quickly and safely. They even went above and beyond to mount my TVs. Would hire again!
Mike T.11/29/2023I moved from Phoenix to Santa Rosa this weekend. I brought a large professional/industrial printer that I had to unload from the truck and place on a stand.
The printer was about 8 feet long, 2 1/2 feet high and weighed... read moreI moved from Phoenix to Santa Rosa this weekend. I brought a large professional/industrial printer that I had to unload from the truck and place on a stand.
The printer was about 8 feet long, 2 1/2 feet high and weighed about 220 pounds. The owner, Kyle, arranged to have a moving crew over at my house in just a few hours since it was a small job. Because of this I was able to get my U-Haul truck back to the U-Haul store on time.
It had been almost 15 years since I moved the printer and I had forgotten how to put it back on the stand! (how to line everything up with the printer stand) I went inside to look at a quick video of how to do it and when I came out the two movers had already figured it out and the printer was ready to go. They had even attached the butterfly screws necessary to secure the printer!
I was completely satisfied with Kyle and Fresh Start Movers. The crew was very friendly, they arrived within three hours of my first call, And got the job done safely and professionally!
Would highly recommend! read lessStephen G.11/22/2023As we all know moving is the worst... but with Fresh Start Movers it was easy, and efficient. We hired them to move our "big" stuff during our recent move. The whole team was a pleasure to work with, they... read moreAs we all know moving is the worst... but with Fresh Start Movers it was easy, and efficient. We hired them to move our "big" stuff during our recent move. The whole team was a pleasure to work with, they were respectful with our furniture and our home and arrived with a plan. The care and consideration the team put into packing up our living room, office, bedrooms, and laundry room was greatly appreciated. Everything was placed exactly where we wanted it at the new house. The communication was excellent from start to finish. The owner was on-site the entire time. The guys were so sweet, after everything was moved in, they kicked the soccer ball around outside with our little one before they left while we chatted with the owner. Well worth the cost to work with a locally owned company that cares! Do yourself a favor and hire Fresh Start Movers! read less
NotEveryones C.11/16/2023Wow! Kyle and his guys made this move a breeze. They arrived on time; worked constantly; handled antique and sentimental items with respect and care; and, to top it all off, were polite, thorough and communicated clearly what the... read moreWow! Kyle and his guys made this move a breeze. They arrived on time; worked constantly; handled antique and sentimental items with respect and care; and, to top it all off, were polite, thorough and communicated clearly what the next step would be. They cleaned up as they unpacked and took boxes and used wrap when they left. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Fresh Start to anyone who needs a moving company. read less
Martha C.11/02/2023 -
We hired Fresh Start Movers for a crosstown move. Traffic had the crew running a little late, but they kept us in the loop as to their revised arrival time. All of the guys were friendly and professional, and took... read moreWe hired Fresh Start Movers for a crosstown move. Traffic had the crew running a little late, but they kept us in the loop as to their revised arrival time. All of the guys were friendly and professional, and took great care not only with our property but also the rental we were moving out of and the one we were moving into. The pricing was totally fair. The crew did seem to lose some focus toward the end of the day, so a good number of boxes wound up in unexpected places, despite being labeled. Still, of all the moving crews I've ever dealt with, they were absolutely the best in terms of the care they took with our belongings and the two residences. And communication was excellent, from our first phone call to completing the move. read less
Lisa V.11/01/2023I was very pleased with their professional service. They even took the time to cover my hardwood floors and put moving blankets on the door jams. Highly recommend this company!!
Max A.10/23/2023I don't review very often, but I was very impressed with the hard work that this young team put together. They were fast honest and very careful with every aspect along the way. It's so difficult these days to find... read moreI don't review very often, but I was very impressed with the hard work that this young team put together. They were fast honest and very careful with every aspect along the way. It's so difficult these days to find such dedicated young people. Props to you Kyle, I'd hire any of your team members to work for my company anytime. Thanks again for all your hard work guys ! read less
Rick B.10/20/2023Amazing movers!! I not only hired them as movers I gave it as a gift to my son and daughter in law. That is how strongly I feel about this local company. Very easy set up, very professional and on... read moreAmazing movers!! I not only hired them as movers I gave it as a gift to my son and daughter in law. That is how strongly I feel about this local company. Very easy set up, very professional and on time. They came in within their estimate and there were never any hidden fees or upsales. Just good business with good people. Don't hesitate to call them. read less
Tanya S.9/19/2023 -
Today was my second move using Fresh Start. When it was time to call a mover I had no question who to call. They are on time, quick and careful, and they make a stressful situation better. Excellent... read moreToday was my second move using Fresh Start. When it was time to call a mover I had no question who to call. They are on time, quick and careful, and they make a stressful situation better. Excellent communication from start to finish. Very highly recommend! read less
kari g.9/13/2023Got recommended to this company when I needed to move my piano. Kyle was very helpful and responsible. They showed up on time and was very careful with my piano. Him and his crew did a great job! Definitely recommend... read moreGot recommended to this company when I needed to move my piano. Kyle was very helpful and responsible. They showed up on time and was very careful with my piano. Him and his crew did a great job! Definitely recommend them for moving! Great value for the service! read less
Blair F.9/09/2023Excellent service from start to finish! Professional, prompt, responsive, and courteous. Couldn't ask for more with a moving company.
Marianne M.9/05/2023The movers arrived on time and we're very professional. They were efficient at taking apart the beds and setting them back up at there final location. The cost was very reasonable. I would use them again and recommend them... read moreThe movers arrived on time and we're very professional. They were efficient at taking apart the beds and setting them back up at there final location. The cost was very reasonable. I would use them again and recommend them to my friends. read less
Rosanna S.8/25/2023 - Exceeding all expectations!!!!Outstanding service! They possessed good energy and vibes. Nowadays that is so hard to find with people who work in the service industry. These guys were on time, kind, efficient and carefully moved each item as if it... read moreExceeding all expectations!!!!Outstanding service! They possessed good energy and vibes. Nowadays that is so hard to find with people who work in the service industry. These guys were on time, kind, efficient and carefully moved each item as if it was their own belongings. Communication was clear and they are very understanding. Will definitely need their help again with our next move! Top Notch Service! read lessKatie Z.8/22/2023
In using Fresh Start Movers found the company on my move here in Oakmont to be a 5 Star experience. Owner actually came to my house for an in person walk through instead of throwing a number out over the... read moreIn using Fresh Start Movers found the company on my move here in Oakmont to be a 5 Star experience. Owner actually came to my house for an in person walk through instead of throwing a number out over the phone. His crew of 5 were on time, highly professional, took great care of both houses, the one I was leaving and my new home. James and his crew walked with me through old house to insure that they packed & moved the agreed upon items. Then walked with me through the new house so that everything was placed according to my plan. And finally, one more walk through to insure that I was happy with everything before the crew left. I highly recommend this company.
D. miller
Santa Rosa read lessDan M.8/17/2023From my first phone call interaction with Emily at Fresh Start Movers, to our actual move day, the entire business was very helpful and professional. When our Uhaul pick up was delayed, they were very flexible with us and waited... read moreFrom my first phone call interaction with Emily at Fresh Start Movers, to our actual move day, the entire business was very helpful and professional. When our Uhaul pick up was delayed, they were very flexible with us and waited at our meet up spot. Kyle checked in and was very communicative the day of, and dispatched two movers who introduced themselves as Carlos and David, and got to work quickly. They were friendly and obviously knew what they were doing. They basically emptied our 4BDR storage unit in less than three hours. They also took good care of the items I forgot to wrap or made sure once packed, nothing was rubbing or scratching the other items. They were able to load more items into our trailers than we were expecting. We were very happy with our experience and would use them again, as well as recommend them to any family or friends that need moving services. Thank you for make a stressful day for us run smoothly and getting us on the road ahead of schedule! read lessCassandra C.8/17/2023They were excellent movers professional would recommend them to everyoneMaurice H.8/16/2023 - These movers were on time, polite, and just extremely efficient with moving my 1-bedroom apartment. They clearly communicated with me the entire time and finished ahead of schedule.Steve M.8/16/2023Fresh Start Movers were prompt, courteous, careful and listened to what I needed and communicated well. They a little expensive but well worth the money for peace of mind. I highly recommend Fresh Start Movers for any type of move!!!Annie K.8/16/2023Fresh Start Movers did an amazing job moving my wife and me from our apartment to our new home! Kyle, Jai, and Chris were nothing short of amazing in taking care of our furniture and delicate items. The team arrived... read moreFresh Start Movers did an amazing job moving my wife and me from our apartment to our new home! Kyle, Jai, and Chris were nothing short of amazing in taking care of our furniture and delicate items. The team arrived early in the morning, introduced themselves, and immediately got to work. They took extra care to make sure they did not damage either property by wrapping blankets around doors, rolling carpet to walk on indoors, and generally being careful. This move was one of the most pleasant experiences I had - no stress! The team was professional and courteous. I was concerned about getting a big armoire up the stairs in the new place but the Fresh Start team figured out the best way to take it up and into its new home. Everything was smooth, the team asked exactly where we'd like to set things and performed excellently. The price breakdown was clear and I would recommend them to anyone moving in the Sonoma/Marin County area. Five stars all the way! Thank you Kyle, Jai and Chris for the big help in moving us to our new place! read lessRoy T.8/01/2023On time, courteous, friendly, listen to our moving instructions, definitely five stars on everything. Made 2 old ladies have a trouble free move.. Thanks.brenda c.8/01/2023
- We moved from downtown SF to Sebastapol and they were amazing. We have moved cross country multiple times and this was by far the best moving experience I have had.Dave H.8/01/2023
These guys are terrific. On time, friendly and polite. They worked quickly and got the job done! I'd recommend them every time!
Patsi S.7/24/2023These guys are terrific. On time, friendly and polite. They worked quickly and got the job done! I'd recommend them every time!
Patsi S.7/24/2023Tyler and his Fresh Start Movers crew were terrific. They were careful, speedy and just pleasant to be around. My furniture arrived at my new house in perfect condition, and they set up all the rooms in quick order. Highly recommended.
Diane C.7/21/2023 - The crew was fabulous. So kind, courteous and careful! Carlos Jose and Odin!Kathy O.7/20/2023I have moved over 20 times in my life, and Fresh Start is by far the best company I have ever hired. They are courteous, professional, take their time with your possessions and care about proving a positive experience.Hugh M.7/17/2023
Everyone was very professional, i couldn't have been happier great people would definitely recommend this company
Maurice H.7/15/2023They were very professional in every way. Carefully wrapping all my wall hangings, tvs, ect. Showed up on time. Communication was excellent!! I really enjoyed my moving experience with the Fresh Start Mover's. Also carefully wrapping all doors, making sure... read moreThey were very professional in every way. Carefully wrapping all my wall hangings, tvs, ect. Showed up on time. Communication was excellent!! I really enjoyed my moving experience with the Fresh Start Mover's. Also carefully wrapping all doors, making sure to protect everything. I would highly recommend them for your next move! Debbie W read less
Debbie W.7/13/2023 - Freshstart movers did a great job with my recent move.On time and good price! No surprise charges. I actually paid less than they quoted. The two guys who came to do my move were so amazing, professional and respectful of... read moreFreshstart movers did a great job with my recent move.On time and good price! No surprise charges. I actually paid less than they quoted. The two guys who came to do my move were so amazing, professional and respectful of me and my belongings. This company is great to work with and they give EXCEPTIONAL customer service from beginning to end! Thanks read lessLISA S.7/08/2023Fresh Start Movers did a fantastic job! James and Jose went above and beyond to ensure my furniture was safely wrapped and handled with care. The moving truck was in great condition, the blankets they wrapped with all looked brand... read moreFresh Start Movers did a fantastic job! James and Jose went above and beyond to ensure my furniture was safely wrapped and handled with care. The moving truck was in great condition, the blankets they wrapped with all looked brand new and clean. They worked nonstop on one of the hottest days of the year and had a great attitude the whole time, really enjoyed the rapport with both of them. Kyle was spot on with the quote he gave me for pricing and time it would take to move the items I needed. He was so friendly on the phone and transparent about what to expect. I have had bad experiences with movers before, quoting one price and then tacking on a bunch of extra charges upon arrival/moving day. This was the easiest move I have ever had. Thank you so much Kyle, James and Jose! I will absolutely use Fresh Start Movers for my next move and recommend to all my friends and family. read lessTamara K.7/07/2023Absolutely, hands down the best company I could have used for my move. The lead guys were organized, professional, supportive, and friendly, all of which filtered down to the entire crew. They loaded my 3 BDRM home and... read moreAbsolutely, hands down the best company I could have used for my move. The lead guys were organized, professional, supportive, and friendly, all of which filtered down to the entire crew. They loaded my 3 BDRM home and drove 50 miles and unloaded, setup, and helped me with lifting items that weren't even associated with my move. Probably the best experience I have ever had with ANY service provider. I'd give six stars if possible. Cheers! read lessPhillip S.7/07/2023
Fresh Start was recommended by a friend who moved with them, and spoke highly of the experience. Kyle came out and gave a quote which was competitive. The team showed up on time, communicated well and were efficient.... read moreFresh Start was recommended by a friend who moved with them, and spoke highly of the experience. Kyle came out and gave a quote which was competitive. The team showed up on time, communicated well and were efficient. I was happy with the overall experience and definitely recommend them to take some of the stress of moving off your plate and in their capable hands. read less
Wendy B.7/06/2023 - These movers know what they are doing and are professional and fast! Not to mention how nice they are. I have used them twice and plan on calling again for any more moves that come along.Jennifer L.7/06/2023These guys were awesome!William C.7/06/2023
Thank you to James and crew for our great move on Monday! The young men were helpful, courteous, and ready to accommodate our every need. Kyle even came back the next day to move a forgotten item in his pickup!
Karen B.6/30/2023Tyler and team were fantastic! They were all very nice, professional, and did a great job with our move. Everything was handled carefully and the team brought everything they needed to complete our move. The process was quick and painless.... read moreTyler and team were fantastic! They were all very nice, professional, and did a great job with our move. Everything was handled carefully and the team brought everything they needed to complete our move. The process was quick and painless. I would absolutely hire them again. read lessLauren R.6/21/2023