What does a moving company do?
A full-service moving company handles far more than driving a truck — from the initial estimate through claims handling if something goes wrong. Here's the full scope of what's typically included, and what's usually an add-on.
What a full-service mover typically does
Estimating and planning
An in-home, video, or phone survey to assess your shipment and provide a written estimate.
Packing (optional add-on)
Full or partial packing service, with materials included, priced separately from transport.
Loading and disassembly
Disassembling large furniture, loading the truck, and securing the shipment for transit.
Transport
Driving your shipment to the destination — directly or consolidated with other customers' shipments on the same route.
Delivery and reassembly
Unloading, reassembling furniture, and placing items where you direct.
Storage-in-transit (optional)
Temporary storage if your new home isn't ready when your shipment arrives.
Claims handling
Processing damage or loss claims under whichever valuation coverage you selected.
What's usually not included by default
- Packing (almost always a separate add-on unless specifically bundled)
- Full-value protection (released-value protection is included free, but covers very little — see our moving insurance guide)
- Specialty-item handling for a piano, gun safe, or similarly bulky item, which often carries its own fee
- Long-term storage beyond a standard storage-in-transit window
How this differs from a broker or container company
A moving company (carrier) directly owns the trucks and employs the crew. A broker sells your move to a carrier and never physically handles your belongings — see our moving company vs. broker guide. A moving container company (like a PODS-style service) provides the container and transport but leaves packing and loading to you — see our moving container cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do all moving companies offer packing services?
Most full-service movers offer packing as an add-on, priced separately from transport. Some offer partial packing (just fragile or specialty items) as a middle option between full packing and doing it all yourself.
Does a moving company handle furniture assembly?
Most full-service movers disassemble and reassemble large furniture (beds, some tables, wardrobes) as part of the standard service. Confirm what's included — some charge extra for complex assembly like modular furniture.
What's the difference between a moving company and a moving broker?
A moving company owns trucks and directly employs the crew that moves you. A broker sells your job to a moving company, sometimes after shopping it around, and never physically handles your belongings. See our full guide on moving company vs. broker.
Does a moving company provide storage?
Many do, either through their own facility or a partner — this is called storage-in-transit and is useful if your move-in date isn't ready when your belongings arrive. Ask specifically about pricing and how long items can be stored.