Frequently Asked Questions

MSI is a trusted, licensed, and insured moving company known for providing reliable and efficient moving services. Our team of background-checked professionals ensures a smooth, stress-free moving experience with meticulous attention to detail. Meanwhile, our dedicated office staff delivers top-notch customer service, making your move seamless from start to finish. Discover why MSI’s customers return time and again and why the majority of our new clients come from referrals by satisfied customers.

When selecting a moving company, start by ensuring they are licensed and insured. Check customer reviews to gauge satisfaction with their services. When receiving a quote, look for clear communication and transparent pricing. A reputable mover will take the time to explain details thoroughly and prioritize understanding your specific needs.

MSI is fully licensed and registered with the FMCSA under DOT number 2660665, the CA DMV under Motor Carrier Permit 0138162, the Bureau of Household Goods and Services under CAL-T189011, and the Contractors State License Board under license number 931868. Additionally, MSI carries comprehensive insurance coverage, including General Liability, Auto Liability, Cargo Insurance, Workers’ Compensation, Additional Umbrella Liability, and more to ensure complete protection for our clients.

MSI accommodates moves of all sizes: small, large, local, long-distance, office, commercial and specialized relocations. For a complete list of the moving solutions we offer, visit our services page.

MSI operates a fleet of modern, well-maintained moving trucks, fully equipped with the necessary tools to ensure a smooth and efficient move. Our fleet includes 53-ft. semi-trucks, 26-ft. box trucks, 16-ft. cargo trucks, cargo vans, and more to accommodate moves of all sizes.

MSI takes every precaution to protect your belongings and property during inclement weather, using protective coverings to ensure their safety, as well as the safety of our crew. If severe weather is expected, MSI will proactively communicate with you to discuss possible accommodations or determine if rescheduling is necessary.

We recommend scheduling your move as early as possible to secure your preferred date. However, MSI understands that last-minute moves happen, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs and arrange a team on short notice.

The best time to move is during weekdays or off-peak seasons, such as fall and winter. Movers are typically busiest during summer, weekends, the beginning and end of each month, and the end of the calendar year. However, MSI believes the best time to move is when it’s most convenient for you. We understand that many factors influence your moving timeline, and we will do everything we can to accommodate your needs.

The time required for your move depends on various factors, including the size of the move, distance, and logistics. MSI provides customized time estimates based on your specific needs, to help you plan accordingly.

The number of movers assigned to your move depends on its size and complexity. MSI carefully plans for the most efficient team and includes the number of movers in your estimate.

It is required that you or an authorized representative be present to oversee the move.

Yes, you can designate someone to oversee the move on your behalf as long as if they are an adult.

For safety reasons, we recommend letting our professional team handle the heavy lifting. The best way you can assist with moving day is by clearly marking which items are going, which will stay, and where everything should be placed. Due to liability concerns, we ask that customers avoid stepping onto the moving truck and refrain from helping with any heavy items.

For residential moves, an in-person estimate is recommended for large residences, long-distance moves, or if there are special circumstances involved.

For office or commercial moves, an in-person estimate is necessary for large offices or buildings, long-distance moves, specialty items, or if precise installation is required.

MSI offers free, no-obligation estimates, including both in-person and virtual assessments. We provide Non-Binding (Time and Materials) estimates as well as Binding (Fixed Bid) estimates. Contact us to find out more about these options and to determine which option is best for your move.

For residential moves, an in-person estimate is recommended for large residences, long-distance moves, or if there are special circumstances involved.

For office or commercial moves, an in-person estimate is necessary for large offices or buildings, long-distance moves, specialty items, or if precise installation is required.

The cost is determined by factors such as the size and distance of the move, the services required, labor time, and materials used.

For Non-Binding Estimates (Time and Materials), you will only pay for the actual time your move takes to complete (prorated to the nearest 15 minutes), plus drive time. Drive time is calculated based on the distance between your location and MSI’s and will be included in your estimate.

Yes, MSI’s hourly minimum is 4 hours.

No, we do not require a deposit to reserve your move. If you need to cancel or reschedule, we simply ask that you notify us as soon as possible. This allows us to fill the vacant slot and rebook you at a time that’s more convenient for you.

Payment is typically due upon completion, unless otherwise specified. For large or specialty moves, a deposit may be required in advance.

MSI accepts credit/debit cards, cash, checks, and ACH transactions.

Tipping is always appreciated but never required.

Yes, we offer comprehensive pre-move planning and management services tailored to your specific needs. Your sales representative or move coordinator will guide you on how to prepare for your move and offer packing information if needed. For additional tips, please visit our Resources page for more information.

Yes, we offer high-quality packing materials such as boxes, bubble-wrap, packing paper, color-coded labels and much more.

Yes, packing materials can be delivered in advance.

Yes, MSI offers customized packing and unpacking services to fit all types of moves and budgets. Customers can choose to pack as little or as much as they would like.

Yes, MSI has an in-house crating team that can custom build crates and crate fragile items.

Yes, MSI has multiple options of floor and wall protection available for residences and commercial buildings.

Yes, MSI is fully equipped to handle furniture disassembly and assembly.

Yes, MSI has installers and tools available to handle these installation needs and more!

Yes, MSI can assist with disconnection and reconnection of basic power and data cables.

Yes, MSI can assist with disconnecting and reconnecting basic power lines. However, we are not authorized to disconnect or reconnect water lines, gas lines, or hard-wired power lines. For these services, we work with trusted vendors and can arrange them for you, ensuring a smooth moving experience

No, our team can disassemble and reassemble beds for you.

For safety and efficiency, we recommend emptying your dresser drawers prior to moving. Most dressers are not designed to withstand the weight of clothes and other items while in transit.

MSI recommends emptying your filing cabinets before your move begins. Leaving items in filing cabinets may cause damage to your file cabinets and items inside may shift during transit.

Yes, refrigerators should be emptied and defrosted prior to moving.

Yes, we provide workstation/cubicle moving and installation services.

Yes, we offer these services for office moves and space planning.

Yes, we have the expertise to disassemble, move and reassemble pianos and pool tables.

Items of extraordinary value are high-value items such as jewelry, money, photographs, art, antiques and collections. These items can be included in your shipment only if you notify your moving consultant of these items prior to packing or move day. However, we recommend that you take these items with you.

MSI can move plants locally, but we do not handle long-distance transport. We recommend making other arrangements for your plants, as moving can be stressful for them. Securing plants safely in the truck can be challenging, and the motion and temperature changes inside the vehicle may cause harm. For these reasons we cannot guarantee the health of your plants and may ask you to sign a liability waiver before moving your plants.

Moving can be stressful for pets, so we recommend arranging for a pet-sitter if possible. If this isn’t an option, ensure there is a closed-off room (preferably empty) where your pet can stay undisturbed during the move.

Yes, MSI does not move hazardous materials, perishable items, flammable substances, compressed gasses, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives, radioactive material and explosives. Furthermore, we do not move illegal items such as drugs or drug paraphernalia. If you have any questions about whether we can move certain items not listed above, please contact your move consultant.

Yes, we recommend that you personally transport valuables such as jewelry, cash, prescription medications, pets, plants, and important documents. Additionally, it’s a good idea to move items you’ll need immediately, such as a change of clothes, toiletries, snacks, phone chargers and sentimental belongings, on your own.