Questions to Ask Before Hiring Professional Unpackers

Moving is tough enough. Between boxes, furniture, and figuring out where the coffee maker went, it's easy to get overwhelmed. That’s where professional unpackers come in. They can take the stress out of settling into your new space. But before you hire just anyone, it helps to ask a few smart questions.

A good unpacking service should offer more than just speed—they should offer peace of mind.

Table of Contents

1. What services are actually included?

2. How experienced is your team?

3. Do you bring your own supplies?

4. How long will it take?

5. Are your services insured?

6. Can you handle specialty items?

7. What do past clients say?

8. What’s the cost breakdown?

9. Final thoughts

1. What Services Are Actually Included?

Some companies only unpack boxes. Others go the extra mile: organizing your drawers, setting up your closets, or even arranging your pantry in a way that actually makes sense. Before signing anything, it's worth asking, “Will you organize my things too, or just unpack?”

According to a source, most unpacking jobs can range from a few hundred bucks to a couple of thousand to depending on how thorough the service is. That’s a big difference, so knowing what’s included helps avoid surprises.

2. How Experienced Is Your Team?

Would you hand over your dishes and photo albums to someone who’s never unpacked a home before? Probably not. Ask how many moves the team has handled. The more experienced they are, the faster—and safer—your unpacking will go.

3. Do You Bring Your Own Supplies?

Surprise—unpacking isn’t just opening boxes. Many unpackers bring bins, labels, drawer liners, and even organizing tools. That’s what separates a basic service from a great one. If the company provides these extras, it can make your setup look and feel polished.

4. How Long Will It Take?

Time is money—literally if you’re taking time off work to manage your move. Ask for a realistic time estimate based on the size of your home. A studio apartment might take a few hours, but a three-bedroom house could take a full day or more. A well-trained team should be able to give you a rough timeline right away.

5. Are Your Services Insured?

Accidents happen. A dropped wine glass or scratched table can ruin your moving day. Make sure the unpackers are insured so that you’re covered just in case. It’s not about expecting problems—it’s about being prepared for anything.

6. Can You Handle Specialty Items?

Have a home office with tons of tech? A kitchen full of fragile stemware? Don’t assume everyone knows how to unpack specialty items. Ask about experience with specific rooms or types of belongings. A great team will have a plan for everything from tangled cables to delicate décor.

7. What Do Past Clients Say?

Real reviews are your best friend. Look on Google, Yelp, or even the company’s website. Pay attention to comments about professionalism, time management, and how the space looked afterward. If people mention that their home felt “move-in ready,” you’re on the right track.

8. What’s the Cost Breakdown?

Ask for a clear explanation of charges: hourly rates, flat fees, and any add-ons. Will they charge extra for organizing? Is there a cancellation fee? The more transparent they are, the more confident you’ll feel handing over your stuff.

Final Thoughts

Hiring professional unpackers can change the entire moving experience from chaos to calm—but only if you pick the right team. A little bit of asking up front saves a lot of stress later. When the job’s done right, your home feels ready, your shelves look amazing, and your sanity stays intact.

If you’re looking for a reliable unpacking and organizing service that knows how to make NYC homes feel like home fast, Aristotle Organizing Inc. has your back. Their team brings skill, style, and zero stress to every move.