Somewhat recently I relocated as part of a work rotational assignment( DC-Area to Boston). Moving does suck, but when you don't have to pack, transport, unpack, or pay - it's even better!\r
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After having my entire apartment packed by professionals, I think I'm going to find it hard for me to ever do it myself. I really did pack nothing. I had stuff all over the place - on my desk, coffee table, side tables, floor, etc. I only packed away some clothes and other necessities that would last me until the end of the promised delivery time frame - about two weeks.\r
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The movers actually wouldn't let me pack anything they were transporting because they are liable for any damage. Anything they took apart, they reassembled upon delivery. I was a bit skeptical, but everything worked out just fine.\r
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In addition to covering the moving expenses, my employer also paid for supplemental insurance of $10 / pound, which I understand is quite generous (normal coverage is $0.60 / pound). I almost wish my stuff did get lost ... shhh. Also, the movers worked with a third-party carpenter to build a wooden crate for my LCD TV. They attached accelerometers on the crate to make sure the it was handled properly. I think this might have been a supplemental service actually.\r
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To give a little perspective on time, the movers (two guys) came on a Monday morning and packed up my 600ft^2 apartment (IIRC, they estimated about 2000lb, or maybe I'm way off) in about three and a half hours - from answering my door to them driving off with my life. I got a call the next day telling me that they were coming to deliver my stuff on Wednesday morning. All things considered, that is a pretty quick turnaround.\r
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While I cannot speak for private service, they were efficient, fast, and friendly for work relocation. I suppose they do have a major incentive to do well however, as I understand my employer is one of their top clients. Nonetheless, it was a positive experience despite all the horror stories I've heard about movers.\r
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