Moving is Stressful, But These 8 Services Make the Process a Little Easier

I think we can all agree that moving isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of a good time. From hours spent packing and unpacking to the manual labor of lifting boxes and climbing stairs, moving can be a downright stressful experience. Thankfully, there are plenty of companies and services out there with the sole mission of supporting you throughout your move. Whether you want assistance day of or need a place to store your belongings during the transition, we found the best services you can utilize for all the help you need.

Whatever the task, there’s definitely someone on TaskRabbit ready to take on the job, from furniture assembly and packing to heavy lifting and delivery (you can see all the offered moving services here). Download the app and then filter through qualified Taskers in your area by reviews, skills, and cost. And once your move is over, you can hire a Tasker to help with mounting, installation, and whatever else you need to complete your space. TaskRabbit is available in most major cities—you can see a full list here.

Sometimes you need a little extra storage, especially if you’re downsizing or renovating. SpareFoot pulls together all the local self-storage businesses in your area to allows you to compare prices, read reviews, and ultimately reserve a storage unit that’s the most convenient for you. They have listings for over 7,500 facilities, and allow you to browse by amenities such as storage size, promotions, climate controlled, and more. SpareFoot also offers similar resources for car, boat, and RV storage, and has plenty of information about the process on their blog.

Amazon already sells almost anything you can imagine online, but did you know they offer tons of home services as well? In the moving category, Amazon offers services for moving heavy furniture and appliances, as well as packing and unpacking boxes. All pros have to pass a background check and are insured and licensed. Prices vary by zip code and task (in New York City prices are around $150 for two hours). And when you’re done moving, you can also use Amazon Services for furniture assembly, cleaning, and more.

If it’s moving supplies you’re looking for, you can’t do much better than Home Depot. The home improvement store has everything you need, including pre-made moving kits, packing supplies, and even moving equipment like dollies and carts. Their moving calculator is especially convenient for figuring out the products you’ll need to buy and the costs associated with each item, which can then be purchased. And if you’re doing the move on your own, Home Depot also offers truck rentals and moving equipment rentals.

U-Haul is the go-to source for moving truck rentals for DIY movers, but the company also sells packing supplies and even offers moving labor services. Of course, though, their bread and butter is truck rentals. U-Haul stocks a variety of vehicles in a range of sizes starting at just $19.95, from pickup trucks for small jobs to 26-ft trucks for bigger moves. With over 20,000 locations across the U.S. and Canada, you can even book a truck for a one-way move for way less than you could using a traditional moving company.

Similar to TaskRabbit, Handy connects you with local movers who have the skill, experience, and equipment to make your move go as smoothly as possible. You do need to provide your own truck, but Handy can help with the loading, heavy lifting, and unpacking. Beyond moving services, you can use Handy for various repairs, outdoor projects, and even home renovations. Even better? Handy sells affordable furniture and appliances and includes the cost of in-home assembly in the price.

Storage units are great for storing bulky items, but they can be a challenge for those in urban areas who don’t have a car to easily access or transport items. MakeSpace takes away all the hassle and will pick up what you want stored and then deliver it back when you’re ready. The first pickup is free, and they allow a free monthly appointment to have items brought back or swapped out. They also provide free bins, baskets, and tape, pack everything for you, and take a photo inventory so you can see exactly what you have stored and where. Packages start at $69 a month and are available in 24 cities.

Got stuff you need to get rid of before you move? LoadUp is a junk-removal service that can help you dispose of items you don’t plan on taking with you, from mattresses to small kitchen appliances to backyard swing sets. The company works with local contractors who will ensure that discarded items are disposed of in the greenest way possible, whether through donating or recycling. Available nationwide, LoadUp says its services are 20% to 30% lower than other junk removal companies. See their pricing guide here.