FAQs

How much do you charge?

It depends on a few factors such as the pick-up and destination location in relation to Arlington, VA, how many things you need to move and when they need to be moved. Suffice it to say the moving fee is very competitive -- I've had people argue with me to pay me more!

However, to give you a ballpark figure, my standard moving price is $75. That's a flat rate -- not hourly or by the mile. A "standard" move is usually one within about 30 miles of the Shirlington area of Arlington, VA, and includes one full truck load. If your move requires that I use my trailer, I might charge an extra $10, unless, for example, I need the truck and trailer for a large couch and love seat. (I count that as just two items, as opposed to the contents of a full, one-bedroom apartment).

However, I will charge for extra items added on after I've given customers an estimate. How much? Usually, $5 per item or group of items. I do this because extra add-ons can, and often do, take longer to load and unload than I budgeted time for. Because of the demand for my services, I'm often on a strict, full schedule, and I take pride in being prompt and efficient for all my customers.

Just call and tell me about your move and I'll be happy to provide you with a free quote right over the phone or via e-mail.

Why shouldn't I just rent a truck from U-Haul?

Well, a lot of reasons, actually. U-Haul's rates, and the rates of their competitors, are certainly attractive at first. But you have to factor in all the additional costs like mileage and gas. I, as your buddy with a truck, don't charge by the mile. You get one, low flat rate. There's no extra math involved. With a U-Haul truck, you get charged mileage from the second you drive it off the lot!

Then there's gas. A drive of even a few miles in a rental van can really guzzle it. Trust me, I know--I've been there.

And let's not forget--you have to pick up and return that truck. Who wants to do that after a hard move?

And most important of all, by hiring me to help with your move, you get me! ;-) Last time I checked, U-Haul doesn't offer the services of a friendly, helpful moving guy with lots of quirky, insidery stories about Washington political life!

Do you have employees?

No -- it's just me. If your move requires the services of several people and a gigantic truck, then I'm probably not the guy for you.

Are you just one guy, and if so, how can you help me with my move?

For the time being, yes, it's just me, but you can think of me as your "personal urban moving assistant." While I've performed some really amazing fetes of strength on my own, if you have items that require more than one person to lift, maneuver and move, I'll ask that you provide that extra person whether it's you, a spouse, friend or neighbor. For example, I seem to move a lot of armoires. I can almost always strap them to my hand-truck and get 'em out the door and down a freight elevator, but if there are winding staircases, I'll need your help, or the help of an additional buddy. For larger jobs, I sometimes bring an extra guy with me.

This is why I ask a lot of questions before I give you an estimate. I want to make sure I don't waste your time or break my back. I want to provide the best possible service to you at an unbeatable price.

(By the way, I'm currently looking for other "Truck Buddies" to help with my growing business. If you're looking to make some extra cash on the side and would like to get in on the ground floor of a new, exciting business, give me a call and let's talk!)

What if I have more stuff than I can fit in your truck?

No problem! I also have a trailer that can fit a surprising amount of stuff. Go here to see the dimensions of my truck and trailer.

Why do your weekday business hours start after 6:00 PM? Are you lazy?

The reason I don't schedule any moves before 6:00 is that I have an actual day job. (Although, clearly I'm not a Web site developer). I wear a suit and everything! Unfortunately, my job title (Director of Something) doesn't correspond to a Director of Something's salary. I explain more in my "About me" page, but basically I started this moving business because I got caught in the real estate market flush. Also, I recently became a father, and I'm the husband of a stay-at-home-mom. I'm just doing what a guy's gotta do to survive and provide for his family.

Do you have a GPS unit to ensure punctuality?

Yeah, and it's really freaking cool!

Do you accept tips?

Only on days ending in "Y."

Are you a Republican or a Democrat?

Hah! You'd be surprised how often I get that question. I guess it's important in this town, but how about if I play ambivalent and we just stay friends?

Do you help with packing?

You bet, but please request this before I give you a quote. Packing requested after I've already given you a quote will require an extra fee.