Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Sacramento, CA

Selecting the ideal moving company comes down to a few key elements, including the size of your move, the distance, and any special requirements you may have. Follow these tips to make a smart decision:

• Review Reviews & Ratings – Check online reviews and ratings from previous customers.
• Seek Advice from Others – Reach out to people you trust for honest opinions.
• Confirm Licensing & Insurance – Look up their license numbers and proof of insurance.
• Get Several Quotes – Don’t settle for the first quote you receive.
• Look Up the Company at the Better Business Bureau – Pay attention to red flags in complaint histories.

Avoiding breakage for glassware and valuables requires careful packing. Follow these packing strategies:

• Opt for Durable Packing Containers – Choose high-quality boxes that can withstand the weight of delicate items.
• Protect Each Piece – Wrap glassware, dishes, and breakables in bubble wrap or packing paper.
• Cushion with Padding – Fill gaps with soft materials, like packing peanuts or towels, to prevent shifting.
• Clearly Mark Boxes as Fraglie – Write ‘Fragile’ on all sides for extra caution.
• Stand Dishes on Edge – Placing dishes on their sides rather than stacking them reduces the risk of breakage.

Scheduling your move as early as possible ensures availability and can help you secure better rates. Use these recommended booking windows:

• Peak Season (May - September) – Book at least 6-8 weeks in advance.
• Off-Peak Season (October - April) – Schedule 4-6 weeks ahead.
• Local Moves – For moves within Sacramento, 2-4 weeks is usually sufficient.
• Long-Distance Moves – Cross-Country moves should be scheduled at least 6 weeks ahead.

For last-minute moves, contact Starving Students at (279) 205-4727, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

The ideal time to move will depend on your schedule and flexibility. Think about the following factors:

• Summer Months (May - September) – Expect limited availability and plan ahead for a summer move.
• Winter Months (November - February) – Fewer people move during this time, which can mean better pricing and availability.
• Weekdays vs. Weekends – Weekday moves usually cost less and offer more open slots.
• Mid-Month vs. End-of-Month – The beginning and end of the month tend to be busier due to lease expirations.

To get the best price and service, follow these steps:

• Get Recommendations – Reach out to people you know for recommendations.
• Schedule In-Home or Virtual Estimates – This helps get accurate pricing.
• Evaluate What Each Mover Includes – Understand the full scope of what’s covered for your move.
• Ask About Extra Charges – Ensure transparency on costs such as fuel charges or extra labor fees.
• Identify Risky Company Behavior – Watch for signs of unprofessional or risky behavior.

For best results, drawers should be emptied prior to moving to avoid breakage or missing things. Loose objects can shift during transport, leading to breakage or difficulty handling furniture.

Movers will load your boxes if they’re stable, secure, and properly sealed. Poorly packed boxes that may collapse or break open could be rejected by movers for safety reasons.

Waterbeds must be completely drained before moving. Special tools or services may be needed for fiber-filled waterbeds to prevent harm. Reach out to your movers before moving day to talk through best practices.

The majority of movers won’t move plants as conditions in a moving van are often unsafe for plants. What’s more, certain states limit plant transport to protect agriculture. If you are moving locally in Sacramento, you may be able to move your plants in your personal vehicle.

To keep precious or one-of-a-kind possessions safe, we recommend carrying them with you rather than placing them on the moving truck. Items like:

• Jewelry
• Cash
• Important documents (passports, birth certificates, medical records)
• Collectibles or small valuables

If you prefer to add these items to your shipment, make sure to talk with your consultant about added insurance protection and coverage.

Preparing appliances ensures their safe transport:

• Refrigerators & Freezers – Empty and defrost 24-48 hours before moving day.
• Washing Machines – Secure the drum to prevent internal damage.
• Dryers – Disconnect and clean out lint traps.
• Dishwashers – Drain water and fasten all hoses.
• Ovens & Stoves – Shut off gas connections and unplug.

If you’d like assistance, Starving Students can arrange professional appliance servicing before your move.