Has The Moving Industry Changed?
Something we recently realized, after 6 years between moves, is that the moving industry is not the same as it was before. So many industries have changed with the pandemic, mainly driven by technology and shifts in consumer demand, and the moving industry is no different. If you have moved in the last three years or are part of the 8.4% of the population who moved houses last year, you might have experienced this during the entire process yourself. Fortunately, most of these are positive changes geared towards simplifying the moving process. Here are some ways the moving industry has transformed in recent years.
Portable moving and storage systems
The well-known process for moving has been to call the company, book a convenient date and wait for feedback. Sometimes, the feedback may not be exactly what we want. For example, if the chosen date clashes with another client who booked earlier, we have to choose the next available date. Which means another long waiting period, especially if all belongings have already been packed. The inconveniences gave rise to portable moving and storage systems that favors all parties.
Clients can book them before the final move, giving them ample time to pack their things before the truck picks them up. These portable containers double up as storage and have become convenient for the industry. This system has increased the popularity of movers like SMARTBOX Solutions, Inc., who put clients first. So, if you’re moving anytime soon, hopefully, you will find these portable moving and storage systems useful.
Digital inventory and tracking
The moving industry is making tremendous use of digitization and digitalization in inventory labeling and tracking. This is mainly due to the growing need to address clients’ complaints of missing boxes and damaged valuables. Moving companies now use handheld computers and sophisticated cameras for their digital labeling and tracking. While there is the option to label by hand, digital inventory management makes the process easier, quicker, and more reliable.
Some apps use the barcode system to take inventory of packed items ready to be moved. Other apps utilize the voice recording feature that allows you to digitize the content of packed bags and boxes. Finding a moving app like Boxnine that incorporates both features would be helpful. With a voice recorder and barcode, you can easily locate your items when you arrive at the new location. Additionally, apart from the moving company, clients can also track their belongings being transported to a new location. This option can be used if the company does not provide you with an online tracking service.
Contactless moving
This service was born in the heat of the pandemic in 2020, when it became crucial for movers and clients to limit all forms of contact. From booking to payments and everything else, phone calls and online became the sole communication modes. The client is expected to sanitize all door knobs and commonly used household surfaces on a moving day.
Any other requirement is discussed with the client before the movers arrive at the house on the agreed day. In this case, the client is not expected to be at the same location. Additionally, the moving staff will wear protective clothing to reduce the risk of infection. Contactless moving is successful only when the communication channels are robust and crosschecked every step of the way.