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U.Santini movers carrying boxes down some stairs

Relocating, even within New York City, can be a complex process. Hiring professional movers is a great way to make the transition smoother, but selecting the right company is vital. Whether you’re moving locally or across state lines, this guide covers everything you need to know about hiring movers, from identifying your needs to understanding pricing and tipping. With U. Santini, a family-owned business that has served New York City for over 90 years, you can trust your move will be handled with care and professionalism.

Understand Your Moving Needs

Before you begin your search for movers, it’s essential to identify what kind of services you’ll require. Consider these key factors:

  • Type of Move – Are you moving within NYC, or do you need long-distance movers?
  • Volume of Items – Knowing how much you need to move helps determine the level of service required.
  • Additional Services – Do you need packing services, storage solutions, or extra care for fragile or valuable items?

By assessing your needs upfront, you can find movers who are well-suited to handle your unique situation.

Research Moving Companies

With your moving needs in mind, the next step is finding reputable moving companies in New York City. Here’s what to look for:

  • Experience and Reputation – Seek out companies with years of experience and a solid reputation. U. Santini has been trusted by New Yorkers since 1930.
  • Range of Services – Make sure the company you choose offers the services you need, whether it’s packing, storage, or special handling for delicate items.
  • Customer Reviews – Online reviews offer valuable insight into the quality of service provided.

Visit U. Santini’s website to explore our full range of services and see why families in New Yok have trusted us for generations.

Get Multiple Quotes

Obtaining quotes from several moving companies helps you compare costs and services. When requesting quotes, keep the following in mind:

  • Transparency – Provide as much detail as possible to ensure an accurate estimate.
  • Inquire About Extra Fees – Ask about any potential additional charges for stairs, heavy items, or long carry distances.
  • Consider In-Person or Virtual Estimates – These can result in a more precise quote, especially if you have a large or complex move.

At U. Santini, we offer free, no-obligation quotes, so that you’ll have a clear understanding of the costs involved before moving day.

Check Licensing and Insurance

To protect your belongings and avoid potential issues, always verify that your movers are properly licensed and insured. Here’s what to check:

  • Licensing – Moving companies operating in NYC should be registered with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) and have a valid DOT number.
  • Insurance Coverage – Make sure that the company offers adequate coverage to protect your belongings throughout the move.

At U. Santini, we are fully licensed and insured, giving our clients peace of mind knowing their move is in safe hands.

Understand the Costs and Tipping

Knowing the pricing structure ahead of time helps you plan your budget effectively. Here’s what to expect:

  • Hourly Rates – Most local moves in NYC are billed by the hour.
  • Weight or Distance – For long-distance moves, pricing may be based on the weight of your items and the distance traveled.

Wondering about tipping? A common guideline is to tip $20 to $40 per mover for a half-day move and $40 to $80 for a full day, depending on the quality of service provided. Tipping is a way to show appreciation for the hard work and care the movers have shown with your belongings.

Plan Ahead and Book Early

To avoid last-minute stress, especially during peak moving seasons, it’s best to book your movers well in advance. Here are a few tips:

  • Off-Peak Discounts – You may save money by moving during the off-season.
  • Choose a Flexible Date – If you can, opt for a midweek or mid-month move when demand is lower.

By booking early with U. Santini, you can secure your preferred moving date and enjoy the best rates available.

Prepare for Moving Day

The key to a successful moving day is preparation. Here’s how to ensure everything goes smoothly:

  • Start Packing Early – Begin packing essential items a few weeks before your moving day.
  • Label Everything – Clearly label each box with its contents and destination room to help movers place them in the correct spot.
  • Create a Moving Day Kit – Pack a separate box with essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, snacks, and important documents to keep with you during the move.

If packing feels overwhelming, U. Santini offers professional packing services to make your move even more efficient.

Address Potential Customer Concerns

We understand that moving can come with concerns about costs, damage, or reliability. At U. Santini, we are committed to addressing those concerns by offering:

  • Transparent Pricing – We provide clear pricing with no hidden fees or unexpected charges.
  • Comprehensive Insurance – Your belongings are protected from start to finish.
  • Experienced Movers – Our skilled and professional team ensures your items are handled with the utmost care.

With U. Santini, you can move confidently, knowing you’re in good hands.

Finalize the Details

As the moving day approaches, double-check all the important details to avoid any last-minute surprises:

  • Confirm the Moving Date and Time – Make sure you and your movers are aligned on the schedule.
  • Review Services – Ensure you understand what’s included in your moving package, such as packing materials or special handling.
  • Payment Method – Clarify the accepted payment methods in advance and discuss the tipping process.

For any remaining questions or to finalize your booking, please contact U. Santini’s friendly customer service team.

Conclusion

Hiring movers doesn’t have to be stressful if you know what to look for and plan ahead. Whether you’re moving locally in New York City or embarking on a long-distance relocation, U. Santini provides reliable, professional moving services tailored to your specific needs. With our transparent pricing, experienced team, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we are the trusted partner you need for a seamless and stress-free move.

For more information or to request a free estimate, visit U. Santini’s website today. Let our family help yours move with confidence.