FAQs

What size truck do you use on a move?

We have a variety of trucks available from 17′ trucks to 26′ trucks. Below is truck size breakdown for a typical local move. If you have an unusually high amount of volume for a residence of your size, please let us know so we can adjust accordingly.

No problem.  Of course, we charge for the time it takes to make the round trip.  We can often only fit 20′ or smaller trucks in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Arlington, and Washington D.C……..so sometimes a second trip is necessary.  An 18 wheeler is the next step in size above a 30′ truck. It substantially raises the price for your move b/c of the cost of the truck and increased driver training requirements.  Therefore, we opt to make a second trip with a 30′ truck or use a second truck on your move.

What if traffic delays my move?

We can’t control the traffic.  Trust us, we wish we could. We’ll complete your mission, charging you the same hourly rate until the job is completed.

How much should I tip my movers?

Tips are very much appreciated for exceptional service. A typical crew is tipped an average of $20-$60 per move. Some of our most generous tippers really make a Marine’s day by tipping even more in appreciation for their hard work/military service.

1) Have everything packed before our arrival

If you aren’t fully packed BEFORE our arrival then your move will cost significantly more than you originally expected.  Of course, we’re still going to get the job done, but expect a lengthier move than originally anticipated. 

2) Alert us to any changes ASAP!

If your closing date, storage size, location, or phone number changes then we need to be informed quickly.  Our schedule often fills up weeks in advance. We need your quick cooperation to ensure we find you another slot.

3) Purchase an appropriate level of valuation 

We have one of the lowest claims rates in the industry.  However, accidents still happen!   We do nearly 100 moves a week.  While completing 97 moves damage free, there are usually still 3 moves that result in some type of damage.  As a general rule of thumb we don’t recommend that a student with passed-down furniture just starting out purchase additional valuation. We do recommend that a client in a $1,000,000 house fully furnished with high end furniture purchase the highest level of valuation.  For the majority of our clients that fall somewhere in between, it’s your judgement call.  Our moving consultants will be glad to assist you in answering any questions pertaining to valuation and protection. 

4) Be present to answer questions

Sometimes a family member or representative is present on move day in lieu of our client.  We can certainly accommodate this, but it greatly complicates things when the “go to” person isn’t there to sign documents, identify fragile items, and direct the placement of furniture. 

5) Check the house before the moving truck leaves

Before the truck leaves ensure no items were left behind.

6) Check the back of the moving truck before it leaves the house

Upon the completion of your move, do one last check with the crew chief to ensure all items were removed from the truck.

7) Clearly label all boxes

Make the top and sides so we can quickly identify the appropriate location during at your unload site. 

8) Don’t use boxes without tops

No tops make it impossible to stack properly in the truck.

Does Two Marines Moving charge a deposit for local moves?

Yes, Two Marines Moving charges a $200 deposit for local moves. The $200 will be deducted from your total upon the completion of your moving mission. There is no penalty to reschedule for another date/time provided if this is done 4 days prior to the scheduled move. The deposit is non-refundable if you decide to completely cancel. Note: During busy periods our schedule can fill up weeks in advance.  We ask that you give us as much notice as possible when requesting to shift a scheduled move.

How long will my local move take?

We never know exactly how long a move will take; that’s why we always charge for the amount of time worked.  Every single move is different! The time to complete a 1-bedroom apartment with an exactly identical furniture list can vary drastically based on what floor the apartment is on, the level of thoroughness of the customer’s packing, the size of elevators, the ability to reserve an elevator so other tenants aren’t using it, and the distance to the truck from the front door. Because of these variables we provide an estimate based on an AVERAGE of similar moves.  There is a 50% chance your move will cost less than the average, and a 50% chance it will cost more than the average. Regardless, you can rest assured that we will only charge for the time worked, no more and no less! Rest assured that our crews will always move with a mission-oriented purpose. It’s fair for you and us. Click here to request a quote for your move .

How much will my local move cost?

The primary factor influencing the price of your move is the amount of hours our crew works on your site.  The Company charges down to the minute, so you only pay for the time worked. Remember, nobody is going to out-hustle Two Marines Moving!   There is also a Truck & Equipment Fee & Fuel Fee. A moving consultant will be happy to provide you with a customized estimate and any any of your questions.  Please fill out our estimate request form to receive an estimate from the “World’s Finest”. Click here to request a quote for your move .

Do you provide in-home estimates for local moves?

Yes, Two Marines Moving provides in-home estimates for certain moves. An estimator will visit your residence or office to answer your questions and take notes on the specifics of your mission if you have a 3,500 sq. ft (a 4BR House) or larger dwelling.  All of our moving consultants are prior (and current) movers, so they’ll be able to assist you as a seasoned representative of The Company. Our pricing for local moves whether an estimator visits your residence or not, is based on an hourly rate. We only charge for the time worked, no more and no less! It’s fair to you and fair to us.

Can you “pencil my move in”?

No.  We’d love to be able to pencil your move into our calendar, but the deposit confirms things on both sides.  It’s our commitment to you that our crew will see you on move day. And it’s your commitment to us that you’ve selected Two Marines Moving as your mover of choice, allowing us to do all the behind-the-scenes work to make your moving mission a success!

What happens if a truck breaks down or a driver calls in sick?

Don’t worry. another truck and/or trained crew will soon arrive, where and when they’re needed.

What factors affect the price of my local move?

Number of flights of stairs – Distance of walk from the truck to the load or unload location – The amount of time it takes to load and unload your items – Driving time from the load to the unload location – Freight elevator or passenger elevator – Reserved Elevator or Open Elevator – Cleanliness/tidiness of work site – Traffic – Packing Preparation

Will my homeowners insurance cover my belongings?

No.  99.9% of homeowner policies do not cover damages occur during a move because of the high risk nature inherently involved.  To protect your belongings, first hire Two Marines Moving. The typical moving company has a 20% claims rate. Our damage claim rate is South of 3%.  But we can’t and don’t guarantee that damage will not occur. For that reason we offer Full Level Valuation to protect your belongings. And because we have such a low damage claims rate we are able to offer Valuation for a fraction of our competitor’s prices! Please ask one of our Moving Consultants for details.

Why is Two Marines Moving the Best in the Business?

You have to be able to trust the people you invite to work in your home.  We take great pride in hiring from amongst those that have served our country.  Our troops know the meaning of mission accomplishment, integrity, and the value of hard work.   Our company policies promote the assurance that your job will be completed right and without damages.  We even provide incentives to every mover at Two Marines Moving. When they go 20 consecutive moves without a damage, they receive a bonus.  If they damage an item, they start back over at zero. From the people we hire to our policies, Two Marines Moving does the hard work to make your moving mission a smooth process.

What is Valet Storage?

We’re all familiar with the traditional storage model, where customers bring their belongings to a facility, rent a storage space, and then load the unit themselves. Most people have also heard of mobile storage, which involves a company bringing a large storage container to a customer’s property to either leave onsite or bring back to the warehouse for long term storage. Imagine something in between the two and the best of both worlds.  We bring our Storage Vaults to your home or office, load them, complete an inventory, and bring them back to warehouse for secure storage. Our Storage Vaults measure 7x5x7 feet. The Storage Vaults are rented individually, rent one or two dozen, depending on your storage needs.

What are the advantages of Valet Storage?

Flexibility

• Each Storage Vault is sizable enough to fit a couple of rooms worth of furniture and boxes.  The system is modular and tailored to your needs, meaning you can rent however many you need.  Decluttering your home might only require one Storage Vault while storage for a 4 Bedroom Single Family House might require significantly more Storage Vaults. You can scale the number of Storage Vaults up or down as your storage needs evolve over time.  

Save Time & Money

• Paying a moving company to load your items into traditional self-storage involves the double handling of your household goods.  It has to be loaded into the truck, transported to the self-storage facility, and then the company has to be paid for the unload.  It’s reversed to pull your items out of self storage. With Valet Storage at Two Marines Moving we bring the Storage Vaults to you,  we load the Storage Vaults inside the truck, and that’s it! We bring each Storage Vault to our secure warehouse where a forklift operator pulls the Storage Vault out of the truck and places it for storage until you’re ready to see it again.

On Demand Pickup and Drop-Off Service

• You can come to our warehouse to retrieve items 7 days a week.   If your schedule does not allow for a trip to our warehouse, Two Marines Moving is always more than happy to deliver your items directly to you.

How does billing work?

Billing is completed once a month on the anniversary date that your storage arrived in our secure warehouse.  All charges are set up on a recurring basis and continue until your household or office goods exit our facility.

Are my items insured?

Your items are insured against fire, water, and wind.  We highly suggest purchasing Valuation to protect your items against other types of damage.

Are my items safe?

Yes. Your items are being protected by U.S. Marines in our warehouse. Only our employees have access to our secure warehouse, as we don’t sublease or commingle your items with those from other companies’ operations.

Can I go to the warehouse and access/drop things off myself?

Yes.  We are open 7 days a week from 0700 to 1900 (7:00 pm.)  Please contact us via email or a phone call so that we may have your Storage Vaults prepared, out front and center for you.

What can and can’t I store?

Flammables, plants, food, live animals, hazardous materials, or wet items are not allowed in our Storage Vaults.  Just about everything else is fair game. If you have a specific question about an item, please ask one of our Moving Consultants.

How much will it cost me?

The monthly cost depends upon the number of Storage Vaults needed and the TMM location in which your items are stored.  Charges are not prorated. There is a nominal monthly fee per blanket rental. Blankets can also be purchased from Two Marines Moving for your convenience.

What is the size of a TMM Storage Vault?

Each Storage Vault measures 7′ tall x 5′ wide x 7′ length.  That’s 245 cubic feet per Storage Vault. You can rent as few as 1 and as many as 100, depending upon your storage requirements.

How do I know how many Storage Vaults I will need?

Allow one of our expert Moving Consultants to be of assistance.  You can always obtain a free estimate by completing our Request-An-Estimate-Form.  If you end up getting more containers than you need on move day ,you’ll only be charged for the storage containers you use. You’ll never be charged for Storage Vaults you don’t use.

Can a Storage Vault be left onsite at my house or office?

No.

Will Two Marines Moving load the Storage Vaults for me?

Yes, one call does it all!  Sit back and allow us to do the heavy lifting for you.

How do I schedule a move and storage together?

Please complete an estimate request on our web-site.  One of our Moving Consultants will promptly return your request with an estimate and answers to your questions.  Alternatively, you can call us during our business hours. (M-F 8:00 to 7:00 & SS 10:00 to 4:00).

How far in advance do I need to contact Two Marines Moving?

If you need to move in late spring through early fall, the earlier the better! As soon as you know you WILL be moving, even if you don’t have your new address yet. Two months notice will allow you to get on the schedule on your preferred day, reserve your move team, before we are 100% booked to capacity. If you are moving in winter, a month’s notice (or even a few weeks in some cases) is plenty of time to plan and reserve your move.

How much does it cost to hire Two Marines Moving for my long distance move?

There are a few variables that go into the cost of a long distance or interstate move.

1. How much ‘stuff’ is being moved. Long distance moves are based on the weight of the shipment and mileage between your current and new homes. During the In Home Survey process, the our Professional Moving Consultant will make an educated, calculated estimate on how much it will weigh. Weight is then verified once the truck is loaded and ready to go to your new home.
2. Where are you moving- there is a mileage component to the cost of your move. The further away, the more it will cost, but don’t fret- it’s not an exponential increase.
3. What level of Protection you choose. Full Valuation Protection, Released Value Protection, and what deductible you prefer- these will all play a part in the total cost of your move.
4. Packing – if we handle the packing for you, that is an additional cost.  This charge includes the boxes, packing materials, and labor to get the job done!
5. Storage- if there is a need for us to hold onto your items for a few days, weeks, months, or even years- we can do this for you and the cost will be added onto your move. First month’s storage will be paid upfront and then you will be billed monthly thereafter.

What is Expedited Service?

Expedited Service guarantees your pickup and delivery dates.  You’ll have one of our professionally trained drivers lead your move, from start to finish.  There’s no wide open delivery windows or extensive time spent waiting on your shipment. This is the best option when extra time is no option.  Think of this as the FedEx overnight option, when it absolutely/positively has to be done within tight time parameters. Many of our clients choose this option to avoid down-time at work, overnighting at a hotel, and not having ready access to everything you’re used to having by your side.

What is Standard/Flex Long Distance Moves?

Our Standard/flexible option is ideal for those who need long-distance moving services on a budget.  It provides the same great customer service along with stress-free moving and packing services customers have come to expect from Two Marines Moving.  Many of our clients use this option when there aren’t extremely tight timing constraints for delivery/pickup. We pair your move up with other clients heading in the same direction, allowing us to offer you a lower price.  We need a little flexibility on your end to arrange the logistics ahead of time, and you benefit from the increased efficiency by paying a lower price compared to an expedited move. Don’t worry, we’ll stay in touch with you through the entire process and as your range of dates approaches we’ll be able to present you with a narrower window.  Within 48 hours of your window you’ll have a guaranteed delivery date and time.

What is a binding estimate?

A binding estimate is a contract that specifies, in advance, the precise cost of the move based on the services requested or deemed necessary at the time of the estimate. If additional services are requested or required at either origin or destination, the total cost will increase.

What is a non-binding estimate?

A non-binding estimate charges you according to the actual weight of your shipment and the actual cost of the services that are performed. You will still go through the estimating process to determine what your shipment may cost. To verify the weight of your shipment, the driver will weigh his trailer prior to loading your shipment. Once your shipment is on board, the driver will weigh his trailer again. All other charges will be calculated at your origin address. If there are any additional charges that are incurred during the delivery process, the driver will provide you with the additional cost. This is a rare event, but it may occur.

How is the cost of my shipment calculated?

There are a variety of different charges that could appear on your estimate, so be sure to ask your relocation consultant to explain each item charge for you. Some of the additional charges that may appear include packing, crating, valuation or coverage, bulky article charge for oversized items and extra labor. Again, be certain you understand these charges so that you can accurately compare the estimates you receive.

Am I protected against loss or damage while my goods are in transit?

Yes, but how much protection you have and its cost to you depends upon the Valuation coverage you select. This can be one of the most confusing aspects to moving but it is important that you understand what is being provided to you.

The valuation option you choose determines the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and the maximum liability of the moving company. The liability of a carrier for loss or damage is based upon the carrier’s tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations that have certain limitations and exclusions. Valuation is not insurance. This is important to understand. It is the liability of the moving company.

What is Released Value ?

This is the most economical as there is no additional cost. However, this option provides only minimal protection and is not sufficient coverage for most shipments. It will pay you $.60 per pound per article if lost or damaged while moving. That means a piece of furniture weighing 75 lbs would receive a settlement of $45.00. You will be asked to initial the bill of lading if you select this coverage.

What is Full Maximum Value Protection ?

This is our most comprehensive coverage. You may hear it referred to as “full replacement value” or as “full value protection” by other moving companies.  If you elect to purchase full value protection, articles that are lost, damaged, or destroyed will be either repaired or replaced with like items, or a cash settlement will be made for the current market replacement value, regardless of the age of the lost or damaged item. The cost of full value protection may be subject to various deductible levels of liability that may reduce your cost. Ask one of our expert Moving Consultants for the details of our specific plan.

Why do you offer additional valuation coverage?

We offer additional Valuation coverage as an optional benefit to our customers who want it. We just want to make sure YOU have a choice. We will ask you to sign an acknowledgement for the valuation coverage you choose so we both understand your express selection of that level of valuation.

Two Marines Moving reserves the right to repair any damaged goods, or replace, them with items of like kind and quality at our discretion.

What are examples of items are not covered?

• Pressboard furniture
• Items with previous damage
• Content of boxes packed by the client

Where do I file a claim?

Please click here to fill out our damage claim form.

How long does it take until my damage claim is resolved?

It typically takes between 5-30 days after you officially file a claim to resolve your damage claim.  It depends on the level of damage, the type of damage, your cooperation, your availability, and the repair technician’s schedule.  Your patience is especially appreciated if a third party vendor must be brought in to assist with any repairs.

Why don’t you cover pressboard furniture?

Press-board furniture is not built to last.  There’s a reason it NEVER turns into a family heirloom.  Pressboard is simply sawdust glued together. It’s meant to serve its defined purpose for a relatively short period of time.  It can be weakened over the course of several re-locations, and it’s just waiting to fall apart no matter who moves it next. Of course, we will still wrap pressboard items and handle them with care, but we don’t cover any damages that result to these items.

Why don’t you cover items that are moved from or into a third party storage unit?

Basically, we don’t know what happened to the items after we left the job site.  Two Marines Moving no longer has access or control over the items. Therefore, we can’t cover items once they leave our care and possession.  Of course, we cover items stored with Two Marines Moving in one of our secure facilities.

Who handles the damage claims?

We have a claims specialist on hand who will be available to handle any damage claims. They have full authority to ensure that all of your issues are addressed. They can be reached at [email protected]

Why is the level of valuation I selected on move day so important?

It defines your level of compensation for any damages that occurred during your move.  Nobody can predict when a damage will occur beforehand; that’s why you should have the ability to purchase a higher level of valuation and protection.  Some people would prefer to take a higher risk in the likelihood that no damage occurs, and that’s fine. Some people purchase increased valuation with no damages resulting, and that’s fine.  Either way, it’s like choosing your deductible for your car insurance; you don’t get to choose a better premium AFTER the accident.

What are the advantages of Two Marines Moving valuation?

Pricing for our additional valuation/coverage is typically half that of our competition.  We have a very low damage claims rate compared to our peers, but accidents still happen. We encourage our customers to take advantage of our low cost valuation relative to its value to ensure your items are fully covered.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Per federal regulations, clients have 9 months to file a claim.

Why do I need to take pictures?

It saves you the most valuable thing of all: time! We can determine if it’s press-board, repairable, or we just need to compensate via some sort of monetary value.

Why do you base compensation on the weight of the item?

It is federal law!  The Department of Transportation requires all moving companies to compensate losses based on the weight of the item.  ALL moving companies that fall under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration offer the Federally required coverage of $0.60 per pound.  Increased coverage is available for all of our clients for an additional cost.

How can I learn more about valuation?

Please contact one of our moving consultants pre-move, and our damage claim specialist post-move.

Top 10 Reasons to Hire TMM

1) Integrity

Integrity is one of our Core Values and is cornerstone of every interaction and everything we do.

2) Experience

Experience matters. The Company has been in business for 10 years, has completed over 40,000+ Moving Missions, and completes 300+ moves a month.  When you hire Two Marines Moving you are hiring the experts that can and will make your move a success.

3) Punctuality

We aim to arrive on time or early. At Two Marines Moving, we hit our targets.

4) Proficiency

Our movers are trained on the ins-and-outs of moving to minimize damage and maximize efficiencies using industry leading best practices.

5) Professionalism

Hearing “Yes Sir” and “Yes Ma’am” throughout your move might be uncommon with the typical moving company, but it’s anything but atypical at Two Marines Moving.  We deliver results with a smile and a “My Pleasure.”

6) Incredibly low damage Claims

The typical moving company averages a 20% damage claims ratio.  1 out of 5 moves necessitates a claim with the “other guys”. Two Marines Moving averages below 3%.  In that one metric alone, we are almost 700% better than the competition. We complete several hundred moves every month.  Two Marines Moving can’t guarantee no damages on every move, but we train and work hard to prevent them happening in the first place.

7) You’re Protected

Your home/office will be properly protected with door protection and floor protection per Company Standard Operating Procedures.  All of your furniture will be professionally and fully wrapped with high quality moving blankets to ensure protection during movement and transit.  If you hire us for packing services, then our team will pack your items to minimize any possibility of damages.

8) Employee Incentives that match the job

All of our movers and managers are paid a bonus for completing 15 consecutive moves without any damages.  We are a meritocracy at Two Marines Moving and believe in rewarding a job well done.

9) People

Our #1 asset at TMM isn’t our trucks, fork lifts, or equipment.  Our #1 asset is our people, who we hire! Fully 1/2 of our movers have an active or past security clearance.  The average security clearance costs $7,000. You’re not going to find the type of security you get at Two Marines Moving at another moving company!

10) Hire a Team that Served to Support & Serve you

Two Marines Moving knows a thing or two about service.  We are trained to operate as a highly productive team in the military. Ever seen a Battalion move together while marching as if it’s just one individual?  Hire our team to support you and your team!

5 More Reasons to Hire TMM

1) Peace of Mind

Moving is stressful enough.  You’ve got utilities to connect/disconnect, the cable company to deal with, and a myriad of other additional tasks associated with any relocation.  We can’t do all of the rest for you, but we can make your selection of a moving company an easy decision. We are here to work for you to ensure your moving mission is accomplished efficiently  by our team of trained professionals.

2) Trustworthiness

Over 40,000 clients have trusted us to handle their most prized possessions over the last 14 years.  You’re in good hands when you move with Two Marines Moving.

3) Security

1/2 of our staff have a security clearance!  We’ve got your six at Two Marines Moving.

4) Hustle

We move with a purpose! Who’s going to out hustle the veterans at Two Marines Moving?  Nobody.

5) Best Value

We aren’t the cheapest, nor is that the type of client we serve.  Being the cheapest means cutting corners. We don’t cut corners at Two Marines Moving.  When you factor in the award winning level of service The Company provides, the lowest damages in the industry, and our dedication to being true professionals here to serve you….the decision is clear. You get your money’s worth when you hire Two Marines Moving.

Employment FAQ

Who qualifies for employment at TMM?

We hire from all five military branches (Marines, Army, Navy, Air-Force, Space Force). We also employ our brothers and sisters from the Coast Guard, Reserves, and National Guard. ROTC and first responders are encouraged to apply. We even hire those that have taken their oath at MEPPS, but are still awaiting shipment to boot camp/ basic/ OCS. Dependents are part of our family as well and we’ve got positions open and available.

Do you ever hire those with no military affiliation?

We do make exceptions to our policies from time to time for exceptionally qualified candidates.

Where are you located?

Our original and HQ unit is located in Alexandria, Virginia.

What are common roles at TMM?

+Mover
+Team Leader
+Crew Chief
+Operations Supervisor
+Operations Manager
+Moving Consultant
+Sales Manager
+Junior Recruiter
+Senior Recruiter

Do I need my DD-214?

Yes, if you’ve gone off active duty orders you’ll have a DD-214. Please bring with your resume to your interview. If you are on active duty you should already have your ID on you.

What if I have an other than honorable discharge?

An honorable discharge is preferred. Integrity is at the cornerstone of everything we do at Two Marines Moving, and we rely upon it to be a cohesive team. However, we make exceptions to the strong preference for an honorable discharge. We also consider the severity of the infraction, the length of time since the infraction, and your record of character and work.

What if I received a medical discharge?

Not a problem. As long as it doesn’t prevent you from performing your job duties, you’re more than welcome to earn a spot on our team.

What’s appropriate attire for the interview?

If you are applying for a mover position, business casual is the uniform of the day.
If you are applying for a management/office position it’s business professional.

What is the location for the interview?

6308 Gravel Ave Ste A, Alexandria, VA 22310

What do I need to bring to the interview?

A copy of your resume, DD-214 (if you have one), and two forms of identification (i.e., driver’s license, birth certificate, or social security card).

What are the work hours?

They vary depending on the position and your type of employment. We have full time, part time, weekend only, and transitional positions open. Apply or ask one of our recruiters for more information.

Are there opportunities for promotion?

Yes. This is our 14th year in business, but we’re still growing. Opportunities for promotion are available for those that demonstrate proficiency in their current position, the right attitude, and desire to better themselves while meeting the companies missions, Good management is recognized. Good leadership is recognized.

What if I’m using the GI Bill to attend college?

That’s great! Scheduling for movers is very flexible. You actually pick the days you work for any given month, by completing your availability schedule no later than the 20th of the month prior. Example: Go to school MWF and work at Two Marines Moving on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Go ahead and schedule yourself to work a little less during exam time, and a lot more during summer break.

Are there fringe benefits?

Yes. We offer a health care stipend after a probationary period for our full time staff. There’s additional benefits. Ask one of our recruiters for details!

How do I apply?

Apply Now!