From shutting off utilities to renting trucks or equipment, planning a move can feel like a full-time job. It’s logistics, timing, and coordination all in one stressful process. So wouldn’t it be great if your movers could help you plan your move, too?
Good news! Some moving companies will actually help you plan your move, but it depends on the type of mover, their service level, and your specific needs. Below, we’ll break down which movers assist with planning, what they offer, and when it makes sense to hire extra help.
What “Move Planning” Really Means
Move planning is the behind-the-scenes coordination that makes moving day run smoothly. It’s the full process of organizing when, where, and how everything gets done. Think of it as the master blueprint for your move.
Here are some of the key details it covers:
- Creating a timeline: Break each task into manageable, organized steps leading up to moving day.
- Packing and loading schedules: Plan these tasks ahead of time to ensure nothing overlaps or gets left behind.
- Managing paperwork: Organize important documents — like moving contracts, change-of-address forms, and appliance manuals — so they’re easy to find when you need them.
- Utilities coordination: Schedule shutoff dates with current utility companies and installation times with new providers before move-in day.
- Tracking inventory: Keep a detailed list of what you’re taking, what you’re donating, and what’s being sold to estimate weight and moving costs accurately.
The key difference between planning and moving services is that planning focuses on scheduling and coordination, while moving services handle the physical work. When both parts work together, it saves time, reduces stress, and prevents costly mistakes like missed delivery windows or misplaced boxes.
Even if your movers don’t offer full planning services, you can still take charge by using free resources like HireAHelper’s Moving Checklist. This comprehensive guide provides you with an organized timeline that reminds you of everything you need to do for a successful move from 8 weeks out to move-in day.
Types of Moving Companies and How Much They Help with Planning
Not all movers are created equal when it comes to planning support. Some handle every logistical detail, while others just provide the muscle. By understanding these differences, you can ensure you’re booking the right type of help for your situation.
Labor-Only Movers
Labor-only movers specialize in loading, unloading, and heavy lifting, but they don’t provide planning or scheduling services. If you already have your own truck or container, this is the most affordable and flexible option.
“Even if you hire labor-only help, they’ll often give loading advice or suggest best practices for driving a rental truck safely…movers are experienced planners, even if they don’t label themselves that way.”
They’re perfect for people who prefer a more DIY approach. You control when the truck arrives, where it parks, and how items are organized. However, you’ll also need to handle details like parking permits, timing, and communication with any other services you’re using.
If you need trusted local crews for the labor side of things, you can browse and instantly book movers through HireAHelper.
Standard Full-Service Movers
Full-service movers cover almost every aspect of your relocation, including some level of planning assistance. You can find some that provide a dedicated moving coordinator who helps build a timeline, tracks inventory, and communicates updates.
This type of mover usually offers:
- Packing services: They’ll handle everything from wrapping your fragile dishes to labeling boxes so you know exactly where things go in your new home. This typically costs an extra fee, and you have to provide the materials, but it will save you a ton of time and effort on the most daunting moving task.
- Scheduling and coordination: Professional movers can align pickup and delivery times across multiple addresses or states, keeping your move on track. They manage the logistics so you don’t have to.
- Delivery tracking: Many companies provide real-time tracking or text alerts of where your items are during transit. That transparency gives you peace of mind. No guessing games or uncertainty.
- Checklist support: Some movers offer digital or printed checklists to help you prep each stage of your move. From confirming utilities to final walk-through reminders, these tools keep you focused and reduce last-minute stress.
You’ll pay more for the convenience of a full-service move, but you gain peace of mind knowing a professional is keeping your move on track from start to finish.
Premium or Concierge Moving Services
Premium or “white-glove” movers offer complete end-to-end move management, handling every detail from scheduling to unpacking. These high-end services are designed for customers who want a completely hands-off experience, ensuring every aspect of the move is handled with precision and care.
Their services typically include:
- Personal move coordinators: A dedicated coordinator manages every step of your move, ensuring timelines, budgets, and special requests stay aligned. You get one point of contact who knows your move inside and out.
- Address updates and utility transfers: Changing your address with key services, scheduling utility shutoffs and activations, and forwarding your mail is a huge time-saver for busy families or professionals relocating on a tight schedule.
- Specialty item coordination: Whether it’s arranging temperature-controlled transport for artwork or securing permits for vehicle shipping, these professionals ensure your valuables are protected every step of the way.
- Post-move assistance: Once your belongings arrive, concierge movers can unpack boxes, reassemble furniture, hang artwork, and haul away packing materials, leaving your new home move-in ready from day one.
This level of service is ideal for cross-country or high-value moves. Because these premium movers handle every detail, their services typically range from $5,000 to $15,000+, depending on move size and distance.
Online Aggregators
Online booking sites simplify comparing prices and services, but not all aggregators manage your move directly. Some only connect you with licensed movers or sell your inquiry as a lead.
If flexibility matters, choose a platform that handles everything in one place. Maybe you want to book both labor-only help and packing services. With HireAHelper, you can plan, compare quotes, and book moving labor all on the same site, backed by a service guarantee.
How HireAHelper Supports Both Planning and Moving
HireAHelper bridges the gap between planning and execution, helping you organize your timeline, set your budget, and book vetted movers, all from one dashboard.
When you’re in the planning phase, check out these helpful guides:
When you’re ready to book, you’ll see upfront pricing and verified reviews from movers near you. HireAHelper isn’t the mover itself; it’s the tool that makes planning and booking faster, safer, and easier.
How Moving Companies Help You Plan
Even movers who don’t advertise “planning services” often offer more support than you think. Their experience with thousands of moves means they can anticipate common issues, keep your schedule on track, and offer practical tips to make moving day smoother.
Before the move
Movers can conduct a virtual or in-home estimate to assess inventory and weight, helping you avoid surprise charges. Some share packing checklists, tips for decluttering, or printable moving schedules.
During the move
A crew lead or coordinator will handle real-time communication, confirm truck placement, and adjust timing if traffic or access issues arise. Many will text or call with progress updates so you can track how things are going.
After the move
Full-service movers may help remove trash or reassemble furniture. Even if you hire labor-only help, they’ll often give loading advice or suggest best practices for driving a rental truck safely.
One thing you can know for sure is that movers are experienced planners, even if they don’t label themselves that way. The more questions you ask early, the more guidance you’ll get along the way.
Questions to Ask a Mover Before You Book
Not all moving companies define “planning” the same way, so it’s best to ask specific questions before you sign a contract. This ensures you know exactly what level of help you’re paying for.
Not sure what’s included? Ask these questions first:
- Do you assign a dedicated moving coordinator?
- Will I receive a printed moving plan or timeline?
- Do you handle packing and labeling, or just transport?
- How much and what kind of communication can I expect before moving day?
- Are there online planning tools or checklists available?
These questions reveal whether a company’s process fits your expectations. To compare options instantly, you can browse verified movers and get quotes directly through HireAHelper’s booking platform.
When to Hire a Moving Planner or Move Concierge
Sometimes, even the best full-service mover can’t handle the level of coordination you need. That’s when hiring a moving planner or move concierge can make a big difference.
These professionals act like project managers for your relocation. In addition to booking movers, they create detailed timelines, coordinate cleaning services, schedule deliveries, and manage vendors like painters, real estate agents, or storage companies.
You might consider hiring one if you’re dealing with:
- A multi-stop or long-distance move
- Work, military, or corporate relocations
- Moves involving senior family members
- Vehicle shipping or storage logistics
A concierge can also oversee home staging or utility transfers, tasks that most moving companies won’t touch. Fees vary, but they typically charge either a flat rate or a percentage of total moving costs.
For families or professionals short on time, hiring this level of support often saves money in the long run by reducing delays and avoiding last-minute mistakes.
“Online booking sites simplify comparing prices and services, but not all aggregators manage your move directly. Some only connect you with licensed movers or sell your inquiry as a lead.”
While not every moving company provides full planning support, many offer far more help than most people realize. Whether you want simple labor, full coordination, or something in between, HireAHelper helps you compare movers, plan your schedule, and book everything in one spot — with expert support the whole way through.
FAQs
Do all movers provide a moving coordinator?
No, not all movers offer this service. Labor-only movers typically don’t assign coordinators, while full-service or premium movers often include one in your package. A coordinator acts as your main point of contact, ensuring scheduling, logistics, and communication stay consistent. They’re especially helpful for long-distance or multi-day moves where multiple teams might be involved.
How far in advance do movers help you plan?
Most movers begin assisting6-8 weeks before your move, depending on distance and season. During busy times like summer, you’ll want to reach out even earlier to lock in your preferred dates. Premium moving companies might start the process months ahead, assigning a coordinator to help with prep and paperwork long before moving day.
What’s included in a full-service move?
A full-service move usually includes moving equipment, labor, transportation, and unloading at your new home. Many offer optional services like assembly/disassembly, packing/unpacking, or short-term storage. Some even help with address changes or debris pickup.
While it costs more upfront, full-service moves save a lot of time, especially for cross-country or large household relocations. HireAHelper makes it simple to find the right movers by showing you what they offer before you book.
Can I hire someone just to plan my move?
Yes. Professional moving planners or relocation consultants specialize in the strategy side of moving. They’ll handle your scheduling and vendor coordination, while you manage the hands-on parts like packing. It’s a great option for people who enjoy DIY but need expert help with timing and logistics.