Moving FAQ

Moving FAQs for Modesto Residents

Get Answers from Your Reliable Moving Team in Modesto

While exciting, moving can also be stressful, especially as your moving date gets nearer and nearer. If you are still unsure where or how to start, let Pete's Moving Services LLC help you. To get you started, our professional movers have gathered the most common questions we hear from clients throughout Stanislaus County and the surrounding areas about moving in general and our company. We hope that you find our answers helpful, especially if this is your first time moving.


If you have other questions, please feel free to reach us at (209) 442-4949. A member of our team will be more than happy to enlighten you.


Optimal Timing for Your Move

If you have children, the best time to move is between the months of May to September. Moving during late spring or summer break allows your child to adjust better in their new surroundings before school starts again. Additionally, since several people are moving at this time, there are more housing options on the market, giving you and your family better options for a new home. Just make sure to start looking for professional movers as soon as you sign your lease or close escrow as this period is also when moving companies are more in demand.

How Early Should I Contact Moving Companies?

At Pete's Moving Services LLC, we always tell our clients to book as early as they can. Getting this done in advance can help lessen the stress of moving and let you focus more on other important things like packing. Postpone booking a moving service for long and you might end up with shady moving companies that are more expensive but less efficient.

Preparing for the Movers' Arrival

Our professional movers are ready to help make your move as seamless as possible. However, there are also some things that you can do before we arrive to ensure a stress-free move.

These include:

  • Labeling your boxes properly, especially those containing fragile items
  • Making sure to have an inventory of all your boxes and furniture for easy tracking
  • Disassembling or removing the legs of your furniture if you can
  • Informing us early about where we can park our trucks, the elevators or stairs we can use, or how we can access your home in case you live in a gated community

General Services FAQ's

What types of moving services do you offer (local, long-distance, commercial, packing, storage)?

We provide all of them — including local moving, long-distance moving, commercial/office relocation, professional packing and unpacking services, and secure storage solutions.

Do you provide both residential and commercial moving?

Yes, our experienced team of movers handles both residential moves and business relocations, big or small.

Can I hire movers for just loading or unloading help?

Yes, we offer labor-only moving services for loading, unloading, or on-site moving assistance.

Do you offer packing and unpacking services?

Yes, we provide full packing and unpacking services to save you time and ensure your belongings are safe and organized.

Pricing & Estimates

How do you calculate the cost of a move?

Local moves are usually charged at hourly rates, while long-distance moves are typically flat-rate pricing based on mileage, weight, and services requested.

Do you provide free estimates?

Yes, we offer free, no-obligation moving estimates to help you plan your budget with confidence.

Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of?

No, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing — there are no hidden fees.

Do you charge by the hour, weight, or distance?

All of the above — it depends on the type of move. Local moves are hourly, long-distance may be weight or distance-based.

Do you require a deposit?

No, we do not require a deposit to secure your move.

Scheduling & Logistics

How far in advance should I book my move?

Ideally, book 1–2 weeks ahead for local moves and 2–4+ weeks for long-distance moves. However, we are flexible and do our best to accommodate last-minute requests.

Do you offer same-day or last-minute moving services?

Yes, we provide same-day and last-minute moving services whenever possible, subject to availability.

What areas do you serve?

We are based in Northern California, but we can move you anywhere across the country.

Can I reschedule or cancel my move?

Yes, you can reschedule or cancel. We ask for as much notice as possible to adjust our schedule.

Packing & Preparation

What items should I pack myself (valuables, documents, etc.)?

We recommend that you pack and transport personal valuables, important documents, jewelry, cash, and sentimental items yourself for security and peace of mind.

Do you provide moving supplies like boxes, tape, and padding?

Yes, wrapping of furniture is included at no extra cost. We also provide boxes, tape, and packing materials for purchase.

Will you disassemble and reassemble furniture?

Yes, our movers can disassemble and reassemble furniture as needed for safe and efficient transport.

How should I prepare appliances for moving?

Please disconnect appliances, empty them, and ensure they are clean and dry before moving day.

Insurance & Safety

Are my belongings insured during the move?

Yes, we provide standard coverage at no extra cost (.60 cents per pound per article, per law). For additional peace of mind, we also offer full valuation coverage for an extra cost.

What happens if something is lost or damaged?

We have a detailed claims process to ensure proper resolution if any items are lost or damaged.

Are your movers licensed and background-checked?

Yes, all of our movers are licensed, insured, and background-checked professionals.

Day of the Move

How many movers will come on moving day?

It depends on the size of your move, but typically 2–4 movers will be assigned to ensure efficiency.

Do I need to be present during the move?

We recommend being present to answer questions and give instructions, though it’s not always required.

What happens if the move takes longer than expected?

For hourly moves, time is billed accordingly. For flat-rate moves, everything is included — safety and careful handling of your belongings is always our top priority.

Special Items

Can you move pianos, safes, antiques, or other specialty items?

Yes, our movers are trained and equipped to safely move specialty items like pianos, safes, antiques, and delicate furniture.

Do you move plants, pets, or hazardous materials?

No, we do not move pets, live plants, or hazardous/flammable materials.

Payment

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, Zelle, and Venmo (no fees). Credit and debit cards are also accepted with a 4% service fee.

When is payment due?

Payment is due at the completion of your move.

Do you offer financing or payment plans?

No, we do not currently offer financing or payment plans.

Our Values Serving Salida, CA Since 2011

  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
    Our team of expert movers is trained, experienced, and always puts customers first.
  • Licensed & Insured
    We are licensed & insured for the protection of our valued customers. Your reliable choice!
  • Upfront Pricing
    We take pride in offering honest and upfront pricing for each customer.
  • We Offer Free Quotes
    Whether it's local or a cross-country move, we offer free quotes for every moving job.

CAN YOU HELP MOVE DELICATE ITEMS?

Pete's Moving Services LLC takes pride in our ability to transport any items safely and efficiently. Whether you are planning to move a piano and other delicate musical instruments, valuable paintings, or glass furniture, we have the necessary materials and expertise to keep them protected. Our movers will always make sure that all fragile and delicate items will reach your new home in the same condition as you left them with us.

DO YOU OFFER FREE QUOTES?

Yes. Pete's Moving Services LLC offers a free, no-obligation quote to all our customers. Most of the time, the quote we give is the price you pay upon completion of the service. In situations where additional fees apply, we tell you right away to avoid any misunderstanding.

Serving Salida, CA

We serve the following neighborhoods and beyond:

  • Atwater
  • Lathrop
  • Livermore
  • Lodi
  • Manteca
  • Merced
  • Modesto
  • Oakdale
  • Patterson
  • Pleasanton
  • Ripon
  • Stockton
  • Tracy
  • Turlock

Contact Us Today

At Pete's Moving Services LLC, we're always ready to take your calls! Give us a call or fill out the form below to contact one of our team members.

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