The Hidden Risks of Self-Moves

stewartms • March 10, 2016
Table of Contents +

“I’ve got a truck and trailer and some friends, no way I need to hire a moving company when I can just move myself!” This couldn’t be further from the truth.  A very common misperception is that DIY moves offer less risk and can be done for less.  It is in fact proven that you have a greater chance of risks moving yourself rather then hiring a professional company.  Risks like,

Expenses

In realty- after the fuel, boxes, tape, equipment damages done to truck, trailer, or new house in the process of a self-move can cost equal or sometimes even more than a full service move with a professional moving company.  Plus, is it worth the hassle, worry and stress of being responsible for everything that goes wrong?

Injuries

 

Your friends most-likely don’t have the proficiency or strength to carry heavy furniture. That will put you at risk  and now liable for medical bills.

Damaged/ Lost Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

When you hire a professional moving company you have the benefit of an experienced crew that is trained to secure and insure your property. If any valuables are lost or damaged during a self-move your insurance will likely not offer to replace your items.

Having wasted time

 

 

 

 

You could spend hours moving your belongings around making it easier to carry, or fit in the tight space you have. Professional movers will have the proper space to fit all of your things and will have the appropriate equipment to move it faster.

 

Even if you are considering moving yourself, schedule a free in-home estimate for your move at not obligation to you. See what the best option is for you, you have nothing to lose!

Free online estimates www.stewartms.com

You might also like

Moving to New State Alone in 2026: Must-know Tips

April 29, 2026
Richmond movers cost anywhere from $300 for a small local move to $2,000 or more for a full household — and significantly more for long-distance relocations. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, what you pay depends on your home size, the distance, and the services you need. This guide breaks down average pricing for local and long-distance moves, popular routes out of Richmond , and the key factors that shape your final bill. Average Cost for Local Movers in Richmond, VA For a local move within the Richmond area, movers typically charge by the hour. Rates generally range from $140 to $384 per hour, depending on crew size, truck capacity, and the time of year. Most local moves take between three and six hours, which puts the average Richmond movers cost per hour for a standard two-person team at $150–$200, with total costs falling somewhere between $300 and $2,000+ for most households.
Two people loading cardboard boxes beside a white wall in a sunny yard
April 28, 2026
Short-distance moving tips on decluttering possessions, planning a timeline, measuring new spaces, and packing day-of moving essentials.
A moving truck filled with furniture and boxes is parked in front of a house.
April 9, 2026
What do cross-country movers cost? The average cross-country moving costs range from $2,000 to $10,000+, depending on many factors.