A mover is a professional company that helps people relocate their belongings. They can be hired for local moves or long-distance moves, depending on the customer’s needs.

They have specialized moving equipment, training and experience to help you move your home or business with ease and safety. They also have insurance for damage to your property and the building you’re moving into or out of.

Their price is based on the weight of your stuff and how much space it takes up in their truck. They will estimate this amount during a visit to your home or office and issue you a bill of lading.

Before you hire them, read reviews about the company and ask for references. A reputable moving company will have many positive feedback from customers and a solid reputation in the industry.

Make sure the movers have proper licensing and insurance before hiring them. Beware of hidden fees, including those for extra services you didn’t ask for.

Get a detailed inventory of all the items you want moved. This will allow them to properly load the truck. It will also give you a better idea of what the total cost of your move will be.

When you’re packing, be sure to label boxes clearly. The label should include where the box is going in your new house, and it’s especially important for fragile items.

If you have a lot of heavy or large items, such as a sofa or an exercise machine, be sure to discuss your plans with the mover ahead of time. Some movers will not allow these kinds of items, due to their potential for damage and theft, and others may charge extra if they do.