The short answer is that it depends on the moving company. Some companies only offer moving services and are not equipped to store items as well. You can ask them to take some of your items to a separate storage facility and then the rest of your items to your new home. Legally, a moving company can store your things for up to 21 days without owing you anything.
However, a reputable moving company can still offer compensation for delayed delivery if you must deliver outside the time promised in your budget. For long-distance moves, your belongings can take anywhere from a couple of days to several weeks to arrive. In-transit storage is available for your belongings for up to 90 days. After 90 days, the goods are transferred to permanent storage. Storage is a good option if you still can't move into your new home for any reason.
However, there are many other reasons why storage may be needed during a move. Unfortunately, some consumers are victims of moving fraud. While there are many types of moving fraud, one of the most common involves having possessions held hostage. This usually happens when a dishonest moving company gives you a low-cost quote, loads your things in the truck, and then demands a much higher fee before you deliver your mundane goods. Yes, technically a moving company can retain your household items if you don't pay the contracted amount at the time of delivery. However, the details are much more complicated as to when and when it is not illegal.
Some companies offer storage in traditional facilities, while others offer secure storage in a warehouse or truck depot. If the company offers warehouse-style storage, they will most likely store your belongings in the pod or truck so you don't have to worry about unpacking and repacking anything. The American Moving and Storage Association has also issued warnings about buying a moving company online. When you store at a different company than the one you move to, you may be responsible for unloading your belongings, organizing them inside the storage unit, and even loading them back into the truck. Companies like MoveRescue aim to connect clients with lawyers and organizations that can help resolve disputes and report fraud common in the industry. Usually, your moving company provides you with a quote at the start of the move, which you and your original seller must sign. Depending on where you live and where you move to, many state transportation departments regulate local moving companies.The BBB tracks complaints from both state and interstate moving companies and is a great resource when investigating the background of a moving company.
Remember, it's also a good idea to get several quotes from moving companies to find the best price for your move. A representative will ask you about your move and review your shipping documents, then answer any questions you have and explain the appropriate steps you should take. In-home calculations are truly the only way a reputable company can accurately determine the cost of your move, according to the American Moving & Storage Association. If you move to a neighboring state, you can expect your belongings to be delivered 1 to 7 days after your move date.
