Tag: moving insurance NJ

What Services Do New Jersey Moving Companies Offer?

Post author By Great Movers
Post date September 29, 2025
No Comments on What Services Do New Jersey Moving Companies Offer?

When you hire a moving company, you’re getting more than just a truck and a few movers. In New Jersey, moving companies usually provide extra services in addition to standard loading and transport:

Packing and unpacking
Storage
Packing supplies
Plastic bin rentals
Specialty item handling
Valuation protection

Of course, all of these services will cost you extra money, so it’s up to you to figure out if you have the budget for them.

What Services Are Included In a Basic Moving Package In New Jersey?

Every New Jersey moving company is different, so you should always ask ahead of time before assuming anything. With that said, below are the most common services that are included free of charge with a basic move:

Loading and unloading – the movers will load and unload everything for you, so you don’t have to lift a finger
Basic furniture disassembly and reassembly – tables, desks, bed frames, bookcases. Most movers will not disassemble more complicated items like murphy beds, wardrobes, or other pieces of furniture that require specialized tools.
Wardrobe box rentals – generally two to three, which you can use for hanging clothes
Tools and supplies – dollies, padded blankets, lifting straps, protective runners for the floors
Dismounting of TVs and window air conditioner units – most movers will not mount them in your new apartment, though
Released valuation protection – by law, through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), all moving companies are required to offer released valuation for free to customers

So, most NJ movers include simple furniture assembly, wardrobe boxes, basic tools, and valuation protection at no extra cost

Do Moving Companies Provide Packing and Unpacking Services?

Short answer: yes! Most NJ companies do offer packing and unpacking to save you time and stress. Movers can pack everything, including:

Fragile items (glassware, mirrors, artwork, etc.)
General household goods
Toiletries
Kitchen items
Electronics

After your move, professional NJ movers can also unpack your boxes and set up your items in your home so you don’t have to deal with it. Of course, including packing and unpacking as part of your move will cost you money. In general, you can expect to pay an extra $500-$1,000, depending on how much stuff you have. That means packing and unpacking services in NJ usually add 15–25% to your total moving cost.

Luckily, many companies also offer partial packing so you can have them pack certain objects or rooms to save on costs. More importantly, you should have the NJ movers pack your fragile items, as they will be held liable should anything get damaged during the move. According to the FMCSA, if you pack fragile items and they get damaged, the moving company can contest your claim.

What Storage Options Do NJ Movers Offer?

Unlike standard self-storage options, most NJ moving companies offer both short-term and long-term storage solutions that are directly tied to your move. Compared to big-chain self-storage companies, mover-provided storage is typically more convenient and secure, since only company employees are allowed on the premises. Prices depend on how much space you need and how long you plan to keep your belongings there.

Some movers provide weekly storage options for ultra short-term situations like if you’re waiting for new apartment keys. For longer needs, you can keep items in storage for months at a time, often in secure, climate-controlled facilities. In general, you can expect to pay around $50-$150 per month for long-term storage and about $10-$40 per week for short-term storage.

Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to pay in New Jersey:

Size	Average Monthly Cost	Average Weekly Costs
5 x 5 to 5×10	$40-$50/month	$10-$20/week
10×10 to 10×15	$75-$150	$20-$40
10×20 and above	$150+	$40+

While most New Jersey movers will offer pickup and delivery of stored items, you should always ask if these services are included or come with an extra fee.

Can Movers Supply Packing Materials?

Yes, absolutely. Most moving companies allow you to buy directly from them. The best part is that the packing materials you buy are the same ones they use for their packing service, so you are guaranteed high-quality supplies. On top of that, the movers will deliver these materials directly to your door! Need some supplies? Below is a general breakdown of the various prices for boxes and other materials. Most boxes cost between $5 and $25 each, depending on size and type:

Packing Material	Average Cost
Small boxes	$5-$8
Medium boxes	$9-$12
Lamp boxes	$9-$10
Framed picture boxes	$9-$10
Large boxes	$13-$25
Wardrobe boxes	$18-$20
TV boxes	$50

Can I Rent Plastic Bins From New Jersey Movers?

Not all New Jersey moving companies offer plastic bin rentals, so if this is a service you want, make sure to ask ahead of time. Rentals are typically available in weekly increments, with prices ranging from $50–$100 for 20 bins. You don’t have to rent 20 bins as most companies allow you to rent a single bin.

While more expensive than cardboard boxes, plastic bins are stackable, waterproof, and more durable, making them ideal for protecting your belongings. Plus, you don’t have to worry about disposal since the moving company will pick up the bins after your rental period ends. It’s a great option if you plan on unpacking immediately after your move.

Can Movers Handle Specialty Items Like Pianos or Artwork?

Professional New Jersey movers have handled just about everything you can imagine, from pianos and pool tables to jacuzzis and valuable artwork. That said, always let your movers know about these items in advance so they can bring the proper tools, materials, and truck size.

While most moving companies don’t charge a direct fee for moving specialty items, extra costs may appear in material charges for specialty boxes (for artwork) or an additional mover for bulky items like pianos or pool tables. This could add an additional $50-$150 to your final bill.

Do Movers Provide Insurance for Damaged or Lost Items?

While you cannot purchase moving insurance directly from your moving company, movers are required to assume liability for the household goods they transport. This comes in two forms:

Full Value Protection

Provides the most comprehensive coverage for your belongings
Cost is based on the total weight of your shipment, usually $6 per pound, with a 1–2% fee of that total.
High-value items (worth more than $100 per pound) must be listed on your shipping document; otherwise, movers can limit their liability.

Released Value Protection

Minimal coverage, but completely free.
Provides $0.60 per pound per item if something is damaged or lost.
Suitable if you don’t have high-value items.

There is always the option of purchasing third-party insurance, and that comes with several benefits, such as:

Offering full coverage of your entire inventory, including high-value items, even if they weren’t listed.
Protecting against normal damage, loss, and natural disasters.
Typically costs $300–$500, providing much greater protection than the mover’s valuation.

Should You Include Extra Services in Your Move?

Deciding whether to include extra services in your New Jersey move depends on your budget, timeline, and how much stress you want to avoid. Services like packing, unpacking, storage, specialty item handling, and insurance can add to your overall cost, but they also save time, protect your belongings, and make the moving process smoother. If you have fragile items, bulky furniture, or limited time, it’s often worth budgeting for these extras. Ultimately, including additional services is about balancing convenience and cost to ensure a safer, more efficient move.

FAQ

Do movers offer cleaning services?

No, most professional NJ movers do not provide cleaning services, but they can recommend local, affordable cleaning companies before or after your move.

Can movers help with junk removal or donation drop-offs?

Yes, movers can handle an extra stop for junk removal or donations, but you must notify them ahead of time.

How much does an average local NJ move cost?

The cost of a typical local NJ move is around $800, though it varies depending on the size of your home and the distance of the move.

When should I request the additional services during the moving process?

Request extra services as early as possible to avoid unexpected fees on your final bill

Will I be charged extra if everything isn’t packed the day of the move?

Yes, movers will charge for additional materials like boxes and for the extra time needed to complete the move.

Are extra services worth the additional cost for my move?

It depends on your budget, timeline, and stress level. For many, the convenience and peace of mind make it worth the cost.

Packing Hacks and Guides

DIY Packing or Hiring a Professional for your NJ Move Pros and Cons

Post author By Great Movers
Post date July 22, 2025
No Comments on DIY Packing or Hiring a Professional for your NJ Move Pros and Cons

If there’s one moving task that everyone hates, it’s packing. It is, of course, the most important and primary part of the moving process. Depending on a number of factors, it can affect how smoothly your relocation goes. A big decision you’ll need to consider, especially if you hire NJ movers, is whether you want to pack yourself or pay for the extra packing services to have a pro handle it for you. Below are some pros and cons of both options to help you decide which one works best for your needs and budget.

Different Packing Services

One of the reasons a lot of people forego the professional packing route is because of the costs. While it is certainly more expensive than going the DIY route, hiring professional NJ packers isn’t something only the rich can afford. In fact, many NJ moving companies offer two different packing service options: partial and full.

Different Packing Service Options in New Jersey

Service Type	What’s Included	Best For	Estimated Cost Range
Partial Packing	Movers pack only specific rooms or fragile items. You handle the rest. Includes liability coverage for items they pack.	Those on a tighter budget who want help with delicate or high-value items.	$300 – $600
Full Packing	Movers pack everything, supply all packing materials, and can also unpack at your new home. Complete service from start to finish.	Busy individuals or families who want a completely hands-off, stress-free move.	$800 – $1,500

If you don’t have a huge moving budget, but still want a bit of help with packing, then partial packing might be your best bet. You can direct the movers to a specific room or area that you want them to pack while you do the rest. Since they will be packing it for you, consider using this service for packing fragile items to make sure they get to your new home in one piece. And the best part is that if the movers pack it themselves, they are liable for any damage to those fragile items. Also, many companies will also offer unpacking services if you have already hired them to pack your things. This can make settling in a lot easier.

On the other hand, if you don’t have the time and money is no issue, then full packing might be your best bet. In this case, the movers will do everything for you, including bringing their own packing supplies. All you need to do is be present and provide feedback if the moving crew has any questions.

Pros of Hiring Professional Packers

When you hire a professional moving company, adding on the packing service might seem like a great idea. After all, you are already spending money on a move, what’s another couple of hundred, depending on whether you go with full or partial packing. Plus, entrusting professionals to handle the process means less stress and more free time for you. Besides that, some other benefits include:

Expertise – trained professionals use proper packing techniques, which will reduce the chances of your belongings getting damaged during the move. They also provide all of the packing materials, so you don’t have to worry about it.
Efficiency – the professionals pack things on a daily basis, so they know exactly where to place items and fit as much as possible in a box without overstuffing it.

Insurance and Liability Comparison

Coverage Type	Applies to DIY?	Applies to Pro Packing?	Average Compensation
Basic Valuation ($0.60/lb/item)	❌	✅	$60–$150 per item
Full Protection Value	❌	✅	Full replacement cost
Third-Party Insurance	✅ (if purchased)	✅	Variable based on coverage

Time savings – Packing is the most time-consuming task on the moving checklist. If you don’t have the time or perhaps have limited mobility, then adding a packing service to your move will allow you to focus your energy on other parts of the move, such as planning, paperwork, and more.
Insurance – all NJ moving companies carry insurance and offer liability should anything get lost or damaged during the move. You are automatically covered for $0.60 per pound per item, but you can always purchase a full protection valuation if you have items that are worth more than that amount.

Cons of Hiring Professional Packers

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows when it comes to hiring professional packers. While it might save you time, it could potentially lead to more stress if you don’t know what to expect. When it comes to some concerns regarding having others do it, there are a few, including:

Cost – whether you go for the full or partial service, it will add more money to your moving budget. Before jumping on the service, consider if you can really afford it or if the money could be better spent elsewhere.
Control – While you can direct the packers somewhat on moving day, you won’t be the one hand-packing every item. That means some items might be packed together that you personally wouldn’t have put together. This could make unpacking a bit more challenging.
Less flexibility – Sure, it might be faster than DIY, but the packers will only be available during their schedule and not yours. That might mean spending more time on moving day in your old home.

Benefits of DIY Packing

If you want to save money and have the time to spare, then your best bet might be to go the DIY route. Not only does packing yourself seem like a logical choice since you can also sort out your belongings at the same time, but you also don’t have to deal with strangers rifling through your stuff. Besides that, doing your own packing comes with other benefits, such as:

Lower moving costs – self-packing is by far the cheapest option since the only thing you need to buy are boxes and other moving supplies. In many cases, you may even be able to find these for cheap and/or free.

Top Benefits of DIY Packing for Your NJ Move

#	Benefit	Description
1	Lower Moving Costs	DIY packing is the cheapest option since you only pay for supplies like boxes, tape, and packing paper. You can even find many of these materials for free from local stores or community groups.
2	Flexibility	You can pack on your own schedule without deadlines. This lets you decide what to keep, donate, or discard — and you can use any containers like hampers or bags instead of only boxes.
3	Control	You decide exactly how your items are packed and labeled. This makes unpacking faster and more organized since everything is grouped the way you prefer.

Flexibility – you can choose when you pack at your own pace based on your schedule. It also allows you to really figure out what you want to keep and what you don’t. You can start packing as early as you want! On top of that, you don’t have to pack everything into boxes. You can put some things into bags, hampers, and so on.
Control – you get to pack your things exactly how you want. That means you can organize each box in a way that makes sense to you once you start unpacking.

Disadvantages of DIY Packing

Going the DIY route might seem like the best route, but it comes with its downsides. Chances are, you’re familiar with all of them if you have packed yourself. These drawbacks include:

Lost time – no matter how you slice it, packing is time-consuming. Packing an entire three-bedroom house can take weeks when packing properly.
Greater chance of damaged belongings – While you will be careful when packing your stuff, you don’t have the experience or training that professional packers have. You may not know the optimal way to pack a box while reducing potential risks.
No liability – if something gets damaged in a box you packed, it won’t be covered by the full or partial valuation coverage. It needs to be packed by the movers themselves.

DIY or Hire the Pros?

Ultimately, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of both to decide what fits with your schedule, budget, and needs. Not everyone will need to hire professional packers for their move, and so if you have the time and want complete control over your packing, then a DIY move might be better suited for you. However, for a more stress-free experience, let the professionals like NJ Great Movers do it for you.

FAQ

What happens if my things are broken, but I packed the box myself?

If you can prove that the movers mishandled the box during transit, you might still be able to submit a claim for reimbursement.

How much can I direct the movers when they pack my things?

In general, the movers will work undirected and generally pack like things together. You can always give some direction, but only for a few things, not for every item in your house.

How much does a packing service cost?

It depends on how long it takes. Packing services are charged by the hour so the more stuff you have to pack, the more expensive it will be.

Tags control over packing, cost of packing movers NJ, DIY packing vs professional packing, efficient packing tips, full packing service NJ, hire professional packers NJ, moving insurance NJ, moving tips NJ, NJ Great Movers, NJ moving company services, packing help NJ, packing services NJ, partial packing service NJ, pros and cons, pros and cons of packing services, self packing advantages

Uncategorized

How to Pack Fragile Items for Your NJ Move

Post author By Great Movers
Post date July 21, 2025
No Comments on How to Pack Fragile Items for Your NJ Move

Moving is already a stressful experience, but adding fragile items to the mix can make it even more nerve-wracking. No one wants to deal with a box full of broken glass or ceramic when moving into their place, but it might just seem inevitable. After all, even on the smoothest of roads, boxes tend to shift while in transit. Now imagine how much bumping and jostling your boxes will go through while driving through the New Jersey streets.

Luckily, there are ways you can protect your fragile items so they have a greater chance of making it to your New NJ home in one piece. It may take you a bit longer, but it will be worth it. And if all else fails, you can ask NJ Great Movers to pack the fragile items for you.

Have the Right Materials

Before you start packing, make sure you have all the necessary items and have the right materials for each object. After all, packing a box of bowls is different from packing a TV. Some essential packing supplies you’ll need include:

Packing peanuts – This fills in the empty space in the box and can withstand shocks and vibrations. It’s pretty much perfect for almost every item
Bubble wrap – the bubbles come in different sizes, so make sure you choose accordingly. Use the small ones for things like cups or plates, and the larger ones for your bigger items
Furniture pads – use these to protect oversized items like furniture or larger glassware like large vases, glass coffee tables, etc.
Packing paper – the most cost-effective method of packing glassware, cups, dishes, bowls, and so on. You might be tempted to use newspaper or magazine pages, but remember that the ink from these pages will transfer to your items, which means you’ll have to wash everything again once you unpack

If you’re looking to save money, you can use items you have around the house, like pillows, socks, pillowcases, sheets, etc. to wrap up your fragile items. Just remember that these are not specifically made to absorb shock, so if you do go this route, there’s a higher chance your fragile items might end up breaking during transit. Still, if you’re just making a local move, it might not be a bad idea since you’ll be able to save money on materials while also saving yourself from messy cleanup.

Create an Inventory

Even if you don’t have any fragile items, you should still create an inventory of all your items. It will be a lot easier to keep track of all your belongings during your move. After all, you want to make sure everything arrives at your new place and doesn’t get left behind or left on the moving truck!

Fragile Items Inventory Checklist

Step	Task	Purpose
1	List all fragile items in a spreadsheet or notebook	Keeps track of what needs special care and ensures nothing is forgotten
2	Assign a unique box number or label	Makes unpacking easier and helps match items to their boxes
3	Take clear photos of each fragile item	Provides proof of condition before moving for insurance or claims
4	Note any existing scratches or cracks	Helps distinguish old damage from new during inspection
5	Back up your inventory digitally	Prevents loss of records and allows quick access during your move

When taking inventory of your fragile items, always make sure to take pictures of each item. You want to record its state before the move, so if something does get damaged or broken, you have evidence of what it looked like beforehand. This will be important if you need to file a claim against your moving company if anything gets damaged or broken while in transit.

Pack Properly

Packing is an art, one that everyone can be good at, so long as you follow a few simple rules:

Always place the heaviest item at the bottom. You don’t want to crush your smaller items, right?
Use smaller boxes for your fragile items. The less stuff you have in a box, the fewer opportunities there are for them to knock into each other. Plus, smaller boxes are easier to handle.
Consider buying specialty boxes. You can find boxes for glassware, dishware, and much more. These boxes have little holders for your glasses and vertical holders for your dishes.
Fill in any extra space with lots of padding. Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, paper, whatever you have on hand, to prevent the items from getting jostled
Don’t overpack your boxes! Not only do you want to avoid items from knocking into each other, but you also don’t want to overload your boxes to hold more weight than necessary

Label Your Boxes

You don’t want to go through all the trouble of packing everything properly and then not label the boxes properly. Take your time and make sure to clearly label every box that has fragile items. That means writing the word fragile on the boxes and also indicating which side of the box is up.

Fragile Box Labeling Guide

Step	Action	Purpose
1	Write “FRAGILE” clearly on all boxes containing delicate items	Alerts movers to handle with extra care
2	Mark the correct upright direction with arrows	Prevents boxes from being placed upside down
3	Group all fragile boxes in a separate area	Ensures they are moved carefully and not stacked under heavy items
4	Inform the movers about the fragile boxes and special handling instructions	Reduces the risk of damage during loading and unloading
5	Consider full valuation or third-party insurance for high-value, fragile items	Ensures compensation in case of damage beyond standard coverage limits

Don’t stop there. Put all fragile boxes in a separate area and instruct the NJ movers that they should be handled with care. One of the benefits of using a professional NJ moving company is that your belongings will be covered with partial valuation protection. So if something does break or get damaged, you’ll be compensated $0.60/per pound per item. If your fragile items cost more than that, you might want to consider purchasing full valuation protection or going with a third-party moving insurance to make sure you can recoup the current market value of said items.

Oh, and speaking of valuation coverage and insurance, in general, your claim won’t be accepted if you packed the boxes yourself unless you’re able to show that the moving company was negligent in their handling of your boxes. That’s why it’s a good idea to let the professionals pack your fragile items, as then they will be held liable.

Protect Your Fragile Items

Hopefully, the tips above can help you pack your fragile belongings with ease. And if you’re short on time or feel overwhelmed, let NJ Great Movers do the work for you. We offer full and partial packing services, so if you want help with specific items or areas, we can do that. Our goal is to provide you with a move that suits your needs and budget.

FAQ

Do I need to wrap every fragile item?

Yes, wrap every single fragile item separately! If there are any loose pieces like lids, remove them and wrap them separately. Finer items like China should be wrapped in bubble wrap.