Working Across the West Coast Shifting Truck Scarcity: Make Your Cross-Nation Transfer Simpler

It’s no secret that millions of Americans moved during the pandemic. We have heard of a nationwide housing shortage for months, and we have been inundated with news of people fleeing more populated areas on both coasts. So it’s no wonder that moving trucks are also becoming scarce.

This lack of moving trucks is particularly evident on the west coast. A report shows that California, as a state, ranked last in terms of migration growth in 2020. Additionally, between March and June 2020, moves out of San Francisco accounted for 58% of all one-way moves by U-Haul. This leaves no one with much supplies, and there is no end to this shortage in sight.

This leaves many thinking about moving in a bind. What to do if you want to sell your home and move across the country but can’t rent the equipment you need to move? Eugene Tolk, CEO of Verified Movers, has a few tips to help you avoid these headaches.

1. Book as early as possible

If you are thinking of renting a moving truck and doing your own move, it is best to book as soon as you are even thinking about moving. Sure, your plans could change and that’s fine. Moving companies can help you adjust your rent as needed, but the earlier the booking is in the system, the luckier you will be.

2. Be as flexible as possible

Try to be as flexible as possible when moving to the premises. Always make sure you have a “Plan B” (and C and D and E). If you absolutely have to rent disposable equipment, are you ready to use a different size truck or trailer? Can you make your pick-up and return dates flexible?

“Companies appreciate knowing which customers can be relocated when needed, especially during a truck shortage,” said Tolk. “Nobody likes it when it comes to inconvenience, but we all agree that it is preferable to live with inconvenience rather than not getting the equipment you need.”

3. Consider hiring a moving company instead of doing your own move

“Do-it-yourself makes the most sense when moving locally or regionally,” said Tolk. “But if you’re moving across the country, say, from California to Texas, it’s better to get a moving company to help you.”

Besides knowing that your belongings are in good hands, moving companies have their own equipment so they are less affected by the shortage of moving trucks. Plus, it removes the hassle and headache of moving, especially if you use a platform like Verified Movers. You can streamline your research and see reviews from real people.

Although many decide to make their move themselves out of fear of the moving horror stories they have heard from friends and family, there are a few steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim:

• Find 4-5 companies that provide the services you need. It’s always better to have options.
• Compare moving offers. Consider your budget and expected costs before making a decision.
• Do a background check of your top choices before signing a contract.

4. Treat every employee with respect

Finally, remember that kindness and respect go a long way. If you treat well every employee you speak to, your attitudes will affect you. We all know that moving is frustrating, and adding a shortage of equipment to the mix doesn’t help. But do you know that the staff at these companies will do their best to help you.

“The equipment shortage affects everyone in the industry,” said Tolk. “No company wants to have to turn down business. You will be surprised how far an expression of empathy can go to make the process easier. “

Most of all, if your move becomes too overwhelming, try to focus on the positives. You are making a fresh start and you will solve the mystery of how to get your things from one place to another. The professionals are there for you when you need them.