30 years of moves means we have heard every question. Here are honest answers to the ones we get most often.
Straight answers about how we price your move, what affects the final number, and what to expect when you call for a quote.
We will take a survey of your household goods to be transported. A survey prior to your move is needed to determine the estimated cost. There is absolutely no charge for the estimate. You can start the process by filling out our online quote form or calling our office.
Yes. We have a 3-hour minimum on all local jobs. This covers the crew's drive time to your location and back to our facility. For very small moves like a single room or a few large items, the 3-hour minimum typically applies. We will let you know on your quote call if that is the case for your specific move.
Yes. Moves that involve multiple flights of stairs, long walking distances from the truck to your door, or strict elevator reservation windows require more time and labor. These factors will be discussed during your estimate and factored into your final quote so there are no surprises on moving day.
Yes, we require a standard deposit to secure your move date on our calendar. This deposit is applied directly to your final balance.
Everything you need to know about timing, packing, appliances, and what to expect from our crew when they arrive.
A standard 2-bedroom home typically takes our crew 4 to 6 hours to move locally. However, this depends heavily on how well you are packed, the distance between homes, and whether there are stairs involved.
We recommend booking at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance. If you are planning a move, we suggest avoiding the end of the month, holidays, and summer time with extremely hot temperatures, as these are the busiest times in the moving industry.
Yes. You should empty any refrigerated appliance and keep the doors open for at least 24 hours in advance of moving. This will allow appliances to completely dry out and prevent the growth of mold. Please note that our crews do not disconnect gas lines, water lines, or hardwired electrical appliances.
Yes. Most people prefer to have fragile items professionally packed. However, if you decide to pack these items yourself, remember to wrap each item individually, provide plenty of cushioning, and make sure every box has a firm pack.
For standard clothing and soft items, you can usually leave them in the drawers of sturdy dressers. However, you must remove all heavy items, books, fragile items, and valuables. If the dresser is exceptionally large or fragile, we may ask you to empty it completely to ensure safe transport.
Yes, frozen foods can be moved, but only under limited conditions and for very short local distances. This is solely up to the discretion of the Patriot Moving Systems representative estimating your move.
We move in all Michigan weather conditions. Our crews come prepared with floor runners and protective materials to keep your home clean and your belongings dry. If weather conditions become severe enough to pose a safety risk, we will work with you to adjust the schedule.
Questions about our crew, your protection, what we will and will not move, and how we handle the unexpected.
We only use trained, professional employees. We do not pick up day laborers. This ensures the people entering your home are experienced, accountable, and know how to properly handle your belongings.
Yes. While our crews are exceptionally careful, accidents can happen. We provide standard valuation coverage on all moves, and we will clearly explain your options for full-value protection before we load the first box.
No. We cannot be liable for your pet's safety during transportation. Pets must be transported in your personal vehicle. We also recommend keeping pets secured in a separate room or off-site during the loading and unloading process to keep them safe and reduce their stress.
Yes. For safety and legal reasons, we cannot move hazardous materials, flammable liquids, explosives, firearms, ammunition, or live plants. We also recommend that you transport all high-value items like jewelry, cash, and important personal documents yourself.
We understand that closing dates change and emergencies happen. We ask for as much notice as possible if you need to reschedule. Cancellations made within a certain timeframe prior to the move may be subject to a fee or forfeiture of the deposit. We will provide our full cancellation policy in writing when you book.
Tipping is never required but is always appreciated by our hardworking crews. If you feel the team did an exceptional job, a standard tip is typically $20 to $50 per mover depending on the complexity of the job.
Our team is ready to help. Get a free estimate online or review our full moving cost breakdown to plan your budget before you call.
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