Why Moving Companies Sometimes Use Outside Help (and What It Means)

Moving can already feel like a whirlwind. There are boxes to pack, schedules to juggle, and a lot of moving parts— literally. So when someone new shows up to handle your custom furniture or a smaller truck pulls in before the big one, it’s easy to think, “Wait a second… who is this? Are they part of my move?” The truth is, that most full-service moving companies bring in outside help from time to time (also known as third-party moving services). It’s not a red flag. Rather, it’s often a smart, efficient way to make your move smoother.

At National Van Lines, we’re no strangers to working with trusted industry partners to get the job done, well, and on time. In this article, we’ll explain what third-party moving services are, why they’re used, and how top moving companies make sure you’re still in good hands every step of the way.

What Are Third-Party Services in Long Distance Moving?

“Third-party services” is just a fancy way of saying outside help. Don’t worry about these being randomly chosen crews, because they’re actually pros your moving company brings in to handle specific pieces of the job.

Here are a few common examples:

• Shuttle service: If a full-size moving truck can’t get to your home, a smaller one may be used to transfer your items.
  
• Crating or custom packing: Some items (like chandeliers, pianos, or artwork) need extra protection or custom containers.
  
• Appliance servicing: Certified technicians may be brought in to disconnect or reconnect things like gas dryers or ice makers.
  
• Storage-in-transit (SIT): If there’s a gap between when you move out and move in, your belongings may go to a secure warehouse temporarily.
  
• Extra labor: Local help might be used to assist with loading or unloading, especially in far-off destinations.
  

These services aren’t unusual, and in fact, quite common to see. They’re often what make a full-service move possible— and safe.

Why Are Third Parties Sometimes Necessary For Long Distance Moves?

Not every moving scenario can be handled by one truck and one crew. Here’s why extra help might be the best option.

Your home might be difficult to access, with tight city streets, narrow staircases, or long rural driveways. In those cases, using a smaller truck or shuttle service is the only way to get your belongings in or out safely.

Specialty items, like some furniture or fragile pieces, need unique handling— like custom crating or professional disassembly. Rather than putting your items at risk, moving companies bring in experienced specialists who know how to manage those tasks properly.

And finally, distance and timing matter. If your move spans multiple states or involves temporary storage, a trusted local partner at your destination might handle the unloading or delivery. It keeps the schedule on track and reduces wear and tear on your belongings.

How Moving Companies Choose Their Partners

When moving companies bring in outside help, they don’t just grab the nearest name in the phone book. Choosing a third-party partner is a careful process built on trust, experience, and quality.

Most full-service movers look for companies that specialize in a particular task— like crating, appliance handling, or shuttle transportation. These services require specific tools, knowledge, and sometimes certifications. For example, a technician disconnecting a gas dryer needs to be properly trained and insured, not just handy with a wrench.

Insurance and licensing also matter. Reputable movers want to know their partners are following state and federal rules, especially when items are traveling across state lines. If something unexpected happens, having the right coverage in place protects both the customer and the company. To verify a mover’s registration and insurance status, you can use the FMCSA’s official search tool. 

Customer service is another key factor. Movers often rely on reviews, past experience, and real-time feedback to choose which partners to work with again. A partner who shows up late communicates poorly or doesn’t treat your belongings with care probably won’t be invited back.

Some companies use national vendor lists to keep things consistent. Others build close relationships with trusted local businesses who understand the area and can respond quickly. Either way, the goal is the same: To make sure your move stays professional, safe, and on schedule, no matter how many people are involved.

PSA: At National Van Lines, we follow the same careful standards. Every third-party service we use is someone we’ve worked with before, trust completely, and know will take good care of you and your home.

What Your Mover Should Tell You Upfront

A professional moving company should never leave you guessing. If third-party services are part of your move, you deserve to know about them ahead of time… and in clear, simple terms.

You’ll typically be told what part of the move will be handled by someone outside the main company. For example, if a local crew is helping with delivery at your new home or a specialist is scheduled to crate a large item, that information should be included in your moving quote and planning. You might also receive separate scheduling calls or paperwork tied to those services— but your primary mover should explain that upfront.

Details like who the partner is, when they’re scheduled to arrive, and how their work fits into your overall move should be shared early. If anything changes, a good mover will communicate with you quickly so there are no surprises.

When you’re working with a company that values transparency, these updates won’t feel like last-minute curveballs. They’ll feel like part of a well-organized plan that’s built around your needs, not just a checklist.

What to Do If You Have Concerns About Third-Party Involvement In Your Move

It’s totally fair to ask questions. If someone unfamiliar shows up on moving day, or if the plan changes without warning, you can— and should— check-in.

Ask your mover whether that person or team is part of an approved vendor network. Confirm that they’re properly licensed and insured. If the service they’re providing wasn’t clearly outlined in your estimate or discussed ahead of time, don’t be afraid to pause and ask for clarification.

Reputable companies expect these questions. If anything feels off, we encourage you to:

• Call your moving coordinator to confirm the change.
  
• Ask for written confirmation of the service being provided.
  
• Take note of names, company info, and arrival times for your records.
  
• Trust your instincts… if something feels wrong, speak up right away!
  

Good movers won’t take offense. They’ll appreciate that you care about how your move is handled— and they’ll work to make sure everything stays on track.

Here’s the Bottom Line

Third-party help isn’t a problem. It’s part of how experienced movers make complex moves feel simple. Whether it’s a specialty service, a local crew, or a storage partner, outside support can make your move smoother, safer, and more efficient.

When you hire a full-service mover like us here at National Van Lines, you’re hiring more than just a driver and a truck. You’re getting a whole network of professionals working behind the scenes to get you home without the stress. And now, you know what quality help looks like, every step of the way. 

You just learned about the kinds of professionals and crews you might be meeting come moving day. Now, get prepared for the big day with our comprehensive tips.