Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in San Bernardino, CA

Selecting the ideal moving company comes down to a few key elements, including the size of your move, the distance, and any special requirements you may have. Follow these tips to make a smart decision:

• Check Customer Reviews from Trusted Sites – Look for consistent feedback and recent comments.
• Get Referrals – Ask for first-hand experiences to guide your choice.
• Double-Check Licensing & Insurance – Ensure that the company is properly licensed and insured.
• Get Several Quotes – Don’t settle for the first quote you receive.
• Review Company Ratings at the Better Business Bureau – Look up the company’s track record for complaints or unresolved issues.

Protecting fragile items during a move is crucial to prevent damage. Follow these packing strategies:

• Use Sturdy Boxes – Choose high-quality boxes that can withstand the weight of delicate items.
• Wrap Every Breakable Separately – Cushion each item on its own for maximum safety.
• Create a Padded Buffer Inside Boxes – Fill gaps with soft materials, like packing peanuts or towels, to prevent shifting.
• Clearly Mark Boxes as Fraglie – Write ‘Fragile’ on all sides for extra caution.
• Stand Dishes on Edge – Placing dishes on their sides rather than stacking them reduces the risk of breakage.

Reserving your move as soon as possible ensures availability and can help you secure better rates. Follow these rules of thumb for move scheduling:

• Peak Season (May - September) – Book at least 6-8 weeks before your desired move date.
• Off-Peak Season (October - April) – Schedule 4-6 weeks ahead.
• Local Moves – For moves within San Bernardino, 2-4 weeks is usually sufficient.
• Long-Distance Moves – Cross-Country moves should be scheduled at least 6 weeks ahead.

For last-minute moves, contact Starving Students at (909) 531-4218, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

The best time to move will depend on your schedule and flexibility. Take into account the following factors:

• Summer Months (May - September) – Peak season means high demand; reserve your date well in advance.
• Winter Months (November - February) – You’ll likely get better rates and easier scheduling in winter.
• Weekdays vs. Weekends – Moving mid-week is often cheaper than weekends.
• Mid-Month vs. End-of-Month – Choose mid-month to bypass the rush and secure your preferred date.

To get the best price and service, follow these steps:

• Ask for Referrals – Ask neighbors, family, and coworkers for suggestions.
• Arrange In-Home or Virtual Estimates – Direct assessments reduce the risk of unexpected costs.
• Compare Services & Pricing – Look at what’s included in the price (packing, storage, specialty items, etc.).
• Ask About Extra Charges – Ask for a breakdown of all charges in writing.
• Look for Red Flags – Avoid movers who ask for big payments before the move.

It’s recommended to empty drawers before moving to prevent damage or loss of items. Loose objects can shift during transport, leading to breakage or difficulty handling furniture.

Movers will load your boxes if they’re stable, secure, and properly sealed. If boxes are flimsy, overstuffed, or not taped well, movers may refuse to take them.

Waterbeds must be completely drained before moving. Fiber-filled waterbeds may require professional vacuum-draining services to avoid damage. Contact your moving company in advance to discuss handling options.

Most moving services do not transport plants as conditions in a moving van are often unsafe for plants. What’s more, certain states limit plant transport to protect agriculture. If you are moving locally in San Bernardino, using your own vehicle is often the best option for plant transport.

To keep precious or one-of-a-kind possessions safe, we recommend carrying them with you rather than placing them on the moving truck. Items like:

• Jewelry
• Cash
• Important documents (passports, birth certificates, medical records)
• Collectibles or small valuables

If you prefer to add these items to your shipment, make sure to talk with your consultant about added insurance protection and coverage.

A few simple steps can keep your appliances protected in transit:

• Refrigerators & Freezers – Clean and unplug 24-48 hours in advance of your move.
• Washing Machines – Lock or brace the drum for safe travel.
• Dryers – Disconnect and clean out lint traps.
• Dishwashers – Empty and secure hoses.
• Ovens & Stoves – Disconnect gas lines if applicable.

When necessary, Starving Students can arrange professional appliance servicing before your move.