8 Roles of a Professional Mover

Professional movers help individuals and businesses move their belongings from one place to another. They are the relocation specialists you hire to handle what is usually the most labor intensive part of your move – loading and unloading your belongings.

Full-service movers may assist with packing, unpacking, storage solutions, and moving supplies. Full-service companies are more expensive. However, they handle the entire moving process, which frees up your time to do other things.

Professional movers may work for a moving company or operate independently. Ideally, they have been trained to handle the logistics of your move as well as move your items efficiently and safely.

Reputable movers strive to make your move smooth and stress-free. They are licensed and insured. They have coordinators or managers that you can contact if you have questions. They are experienced and knowledge about the moving industry.

Every member of the moving team has a specific role. Some roles change during the moving process. Other roles overlap.

Depending on the size of the moving company, and your moving needs, the composition of your moving team may vary. That said, there are some commonalities.

Here are eight roles of a professional moving team.

Team Roles

Mover and Loader

Movers and loaders are responsible for physically handling your items. They are the first people who come to mind when you think of movers. Their role is to load and unload the moving truck.

Driver

Drivers usually do double duty as movers. In addition to moving your belongings, they are responsible for safely transporting your items to their destination. Drivers have special licenses that allow them to operate commercial moving vehicles.

Packer

Full-service moving companies may offer packing services. Packers are responsible for securely packing your items. Their role is to ensure your items are protected during transport. For high value items, packers may use special packing materials or meticulous packing techniques. They may also do double duty as movers.

Foreman or Team Leader

The foreman or team lead is the go-to person during your move. They are responsible for coordinating their team, communicating with you, and ensuing the move is progressing according to plan. They are usually movers as well.

Customer Service Representative

Customers service representatives are responsible for communicating with you before, during, and after your move. They are usually the person you speak with to schedule your in-home moving inspection. They may also provide you with a cost estimate and schedule your move.

The customer service representative is the liaison between you and the rest of the moving company. They may not be physically present during your move, but they are tasked with providing you information and addressing your concerns throughout your move.

Logistics Coordinator

Large moving companies may have a logistics coordinator. The logistics coordinator handles scheduling, route planning, and coordination among the company’s moving teams. You may never meet the logistics coordinator, as they usually work behind the scenes to keep company operations running smoothly.

Specialty Item Handler

Items that need extra care may be transported using special handling and delivery services. Specialty item handlers are responsible for packing and moving items that are valuable, fragile, or large. They may be specifically trained to move pianos, artwork, antiques, or any item that needs special care during transport.

Warehouse and Storage Staff

Large moving companies may have warehouses where they store clients’ belongings. Warehouse and storage staff are responsible for managing and organizing items in the storage facility. They may load and unload trucks, track inbound and outbound shipments, and coordinate moves with other company staff. You may never meet the warehouse staff, but they are an essential part of coordinating storage for moves that span long time periods or long distances.

Given all the roles of a professional moving team, effective communication and coordination are essential for a successful and efficient move. During the planning, packing, loading, and unloading phases of your move, observe the moving staff to determine who does what. Discover who may be the best person to help you if there is a problem, or if you have questions.

Regardless of their role, all professional movers are in the business of customer service. Any member of the moving team should be happy to assist you and ensure you have the best move possible.

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