FAQ
General
What is Simplified Moving Solutions?
A moving-guide and directory in Alaska. We help you find movers that serve your route, show what they do, and explain how to vet them before you book.
Do you rank a single “best” mover?
No. The right company depends on your inventory, dates, distance, access, and budget. We show options and the checks to run on each one.
How do I use the website?
Open your city or route page and click Get a Quote. Tell us your origin, destination, dates, and basic inventory. We’ll match you with a vetted mover that serves your route and email you the company details and pricing.
Using Our Listings
Where do your listings come from?
Public company information and what movers publish about services and coverage. We highlight key facts so you can compare quickly. Always verify licensing for interstate jobs.
Do you cover my city or route?
For now we focus on Alaska—Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, the Mat-Su, Kenai Peninsula, and routes to/from the Lower 48 (including ferry-dependent moves). If your Alaska route isn’t listed yet, click Get a Quote and tell us your origin/destination and dates—we’ll match you with a vetted Alaska mover and email pricing and next steps.
Pricing & Quotes
What type of estimate should I ask for?
A moving-guide and directory in Alaska. We help you find movers that serve your route, show For interstate moves: binding or binding-not-to-exceed after a proper survey.
For local moves: make sure the quote lists crew size, hourly rate, minimum hours, travel time, and any access fees.
Why do quotes vary so much?
Inventory accuracy, packing level, stairs/elevators, parking distance, season, and delivery windows. Different movers price risk differently.
When should I book?
Summer and month-end fill fast. Book earlier if you’re in a remote area or need ferries/elevator reservations.
Vetting Movers
How do I verify a mover is legitimate?
Get the company’s legal name and USDOT/MC numbers (for interstate). Confirm status on the official databases. Check complaint history and whether they’re a carrier (trucks/crew) or a broker (arranges with carriers).
Carrier vs. broker—what’s the difference?
Carriers do the move with their crews. Brokers coordinate with carriers. If you hire a broker, ask which carrier will handle pickup/delivery and verify that carrier too.
Where do I complain if something goes wrong (interstate)?
File with the federal regulator’s complaint portal or hotline. Keep your Bill of Lading, inventory, and emails handy.
Coverage, Liability & Paperwork
Is “valuation coverage” the same as insurance?
No. Standard released value is usually minimal (e.g., cents per pound). Ask for full-value protection options and read the exclusions.
What paperwork should I expect?
Written estimate, Order for Service/Bill of Lading, inventory list, and your chosen liability terms. Keep copies with you on move day.
Scheduling & Logistics
How are pickup and delivery dates set?
Long-distance moves use windows (a pickup range and a delivery spread). Confirm them in writing and ask for day-before updates.
My building needs a COI or elevator reservation—what now?
Tell the mover early. Send COI requirements, book elevator/loading dock times, and share any parking or permit rules.
Packing, Storage & Special Items
Can movers pack for me?
Yes—full or partial. If you self-pack, use sturdy boxes, tape top and bottom, label by room + contents, and keep an “essentials” box with you. Not sure how many boxes you’ll need? Use our Moving Box Calculator.
Carrier vs. broker—what’sHow are fragile or heavy items handled (art, pianos, safes)?
Ask about trained crews, crating, stair/weight limits, and exact fees. Get these in writing.
Do movers offer storage?
Often. Confirm monthly rate, access hours, and whether storage is with the mover (in-transit) or at a third-party facility.
Data, Privacy & Contact
What do movers need to quote accurately?
Origin/destination, dates, detailed inventory (big items + box count), access notes (stairs, elevator, parking distance), special items, and packing needs. Photos or a quick video walk-through helps.
What should I avoid posting publicly?
Exact move dates, full address, photos of valuables. Share details only with movers you’re seriously vetting.