Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Detroit, MI

Your choice of moving company is influenced by multiple details, including the size of your move, the distance, and any special requirements you may have. Follow these tips to make a smart decision:

• Check Customer Reviews from Trusted Sites – Read what others say about their experience.
• Ask for Recommendations – Ask for first-hand experiences to guide your choice.
• Confirm Licensing & Insurance – Don’t book until credentials are verified.
• Compare Different Quotes – Review a few options to spot the best fit.
• Look Up the Company at the Better Business Bureau – Look up the company’s track record for complaints or unresolved issues.

Avoiding breakage for glassware and valuables requires careful packing. Rely on these proven methods:

• Opt for Durable Packing Containers – Go for sturdy packing materials that will protect your valuables.
• Wrap Every Breakable Separately – Cushion each item on its own for maximum safety.
• Create a Padded Buffer Inside Boxes – Fill gaps with soft materials, like packing peanuts or towels, to prevent shifting.
• Identify Fragile Boxes with Clear Labels – Clearly mark fragile boxes to ensure careful handling.
• Stand Dishes on Edge – Placing dishes on their sides rather than stacking them reduces the risk of breakage.

Reserving your move as soon as possible makes sure the mover is available and can help you secure better rates. Follow these rules of thumb for move scheduling:

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

If you need to move on short notice, contact Palmer Moving Services at 313-484-2638, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

The perfect time to move will depend on your schedule and flexibility. Consider the following factors:

• Summer Months (May - September) – Peak season means high demand; reserve your date well in advance.
• Winter Months (November - February) – Fewer people move during this time, which can mean better pricing and availability.
• Weekdays vs. Weekends – You may avoid higher rates and competition by picking a weekday.
• Mid-Month vs. End-of-Month – Choose mid-month to bypass the rush and secure your preferred date.

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

• Ask for Recommendations – Talk to recent movers in your network for recommendations.
• Schedule In-Home or Virtual Estimates – You’ll receive a more precise quote this way.
• Evaluate What Each Mover Includes – Understand the full scope of what’s covered for your move.
• Ensure Complete Price Transparency – Ensure transparency on costs such as fuel charges or extra labor fees.
• Watch Out for Warning Signs – Avoid movers who ask for big payments before the move.

The safest approach is to remove all contents from drawers before transport to reduce risk. Items left in drawers may move around, which can cause damage or make furniture harder to carry.

Yes, as long as the boxes are packed securely and deemed safe for transport. If boxes are flimsy, overstuffed, or not taped well, movers may refuse to take them.

You must fully drain your waterbed prior to moving day. 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.

Most moving companies won’t move plants as conditions in a moving van are often unsafe for plants. On top of that, certain states limit plant transport to protect agriculture. If you are moving locally in Detroit, you may be able to move your plants in your personal vehicle.

For high-value or irreplaceable items, it’s best to keep them with you instead of loading them onto the truck. Items like:

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

If you choose to include valuables in your shipment, make sure to talk with your consultant about added insurance protection and coverage.

Preparing appliances ensures their safe transport:

• Refrigerators & Freezers – Clear out contents and allow 2-4 days to thaw fully.
• Washing Machines – Lock or brace the drum for safe travel.
• Dryers – Prepare by clearing any buildup and unplugging.
• Dishwashers – Drain water and fasten all hoses.
• Ovens & Stoves – Shut off gas connections and unplug.

If you’d like assistance, Palmer Moving Services can arrange professional appliance servicing before your move.