Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Brambleton, VA

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:

• Check Reviews & Ratings – Read what others say about their experience.
• Get Referrals – Get referrals from family, friends, or coworkers who have recently moved.
• Confirm Licensing & Insurance – Don’t book until credentials are verified.
• Compare Different Quotes – Review a few options to spot the best fit.
• Check the Better Business Bureau – Look up the company’s track record for complaints or unresolved issues.

Protecting fragile items during a move is crucial to prevent damage. Follow these packing strategies:

• Use Sturdy Boxes – Go for sturdy packing materials that will protect your valuables.
• Wrap Items Individually – Wrap each item with soft materials to guard every piece.
• Create a Padded Buffer Inside Boxes – Surround items with cushioning on all sides.
• Clearly Mark Boxes as Fraglie – Write ‘Fragile’ on all sides for extra caution.
• Place Plates Upright Instead of Flat – Standing dishes up minimizes breakage in transit.

Booking your move early makes sure you get your move date and can help you save money. Follow these rules of thumb for move scheduling:

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

If your move needs to happen quickly, contact Shoreview Moving and Storage at 703-844-2252, and we will make every effort to help you move when you need it.

The right time to move depends 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 – Moving mid-week is often cheaper than weekends.
• 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:

• Ask for Recommendations – Ask neighbors, family, and coworkers for suggestions.
• Schedule In-Home or Virtual Estimates – You’ll receive a more precise quote this way.
• Review Options and Cost Breakdowns – Understand the full scope of what’s covered for your move.
• Ensure Complete Price Transparency – Ask for a breakdown of all charges in writing.
• 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. Items left in drawers may move around, which can cause damage or make furniture harder to carry.

Movers will load your boxes if they’re stable, secure, and properly sealed. Boxes that might split, crush, or fall apart could be declined for everyone’s protection.

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 due to the stress and heat exposure inside moving trucks. On top of that, certain states enforce rules about plant movement to prevent pest and disease spread. If you are moving locally in Brambleton, it’s generally safe to carry plants yourself in your car.

For high-value or irreplaceable items, 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.

A few simple steps can keep your appliances protected in transit:

• Refrigerators & Freezers – Empty and defrost 24-48 hours before moving day.
• Washing Machines – Lock or brace the drum for safe travel.
• Dryers – Prepare by clearing any buildup and unplugging.
• Dishwashers – Drain, empty, and secure hoses.
• Ovens & Stoves – Disconnect gas lines if applicable.

When necessary, Shoreview Moving and Storage can arrange professional appliance servicing before your move.