Moving to a new home is a big transition — whether you’re heading from the North Hills to the South Hills, upgrading to a larger home in Cranberry, or relocating to one of Pittsburgh’s walkable city neighborhoods. Packing, organizing, hauling, and settling in all take time and energy, and choosing the right moving company can make a huge difference in how smooth the process feels.
As both a Pittsburgh Realtor and the owner of Make Moves LLC, I’ve seen how important it is to hire movers who are reliable, transparent, and prepared. Before you commit to any moving company, here are five essential questions to ask.
1. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
A reputable moving company should be able to clearly explain their licensing and insurance coverage. This protects you if something is damaged, lost, or if an accident occurs during the move. In a city like Pittsburgh — with steep driveways, tight staircases, and older homes — proper coverage matters.
2. Who will be handling my move?
Every moving company structures its crews differently. Some use the same team throughout the entire process, while others divide responsibilities or bring in additional help depending on the job.
Ask for clarity on:
- Who will be on-site
- How the team is organized
- What parts of the move they handle
Knowing who will be in your home on moving day helps set expectations and reduces surprises.
3. How much experience do you have?
Experience matters — especially in Pittsburgh, where moves often involve narrow streets, historic homes, and unique neighborhood layouts. Ask how long the company has been operating, how they train their staff, and whether they have experience with the type of home you’re moving into or out of.
Online reviews and references can also help you gauge reliability.
4. Are there items you don’t move?
Every moving company has guidelines about what they can and cannot transport. Common examples include:
- Pianos
- Firearms
- Large safes
- High‑value or specialty items
- Hazardous materials
Clarifying this upfront ensures you can make separate arrangements if needed.
5. What equipment do you bring?
The right equipment helps protect your belongings and your home. Ask what tools and materials they typically use, such as:
- Dollies
- Moving straps
- Floor protection
- Padding and blankets
- Tools for disassembling furniture
This helps you understand how prepared they’ll be for the job.
Pittsburgh‑Specific Moving Considerations
Pittsburgh homes and neighborhoods come with their own quirks. When choosing a moving company, consider asking about:
Parking & Permits
In areas like Shadyside, Lawrenceville, or the Strip District, street parking can be limited. Some moves require temporary parking permits or special planning.
Older Home Layouts
Many homes in neighborhoods like Brookline, Bloomfield, and South Side have narrow staircases, tight turns, or basement access that requires careful navigation.
Weather & Terrain
Pittsburgh’s hills and unpredictable weather — especially rain — can affect loading and unloading. Ask how the company handles these conditions.
FAQs: Hiring a Moving Company in Pittsburgh
How far in advance should I book movers?
During busy seasons (late summer, early fall, and end-of-month lease turnovers), booking 4–6 weeks ahead is ideal.
Do movers pack for you?
Some companies offer packing services, while others focus solely on transport. Ask what options are available and whether packing materials are provided.
What does a typical Pittsburgh move cost?
Costs vary based on distance, home size, and services needed. Request a detailed estimate so you understand what’s included.
Can movers help with decluttering before selling?
Some companies offer additional services, while others focus strictly on moving. Ask what’s available — and as a Realtor, I can help you plan the real estate side of things.
Do I need a parking permit for my moving truck?
It depends on the neighborhood. Some areas require temporary permits for trucks or loading zones. Your moving company should be able to guide you on what’s needed.
Planning a Move in Pittsburgh? I Can Help.
Whether you’re preparing to buy, sell, or relocate within the Pittsburgh region, I can help you navigate both sides of the process — the real estate decisions and the logistics of getting from one home to the next. With experience in both industries, I make sure your transition is as smooth and stress‑free as possible.