Three moving disasters taught me a crucial lesson: getting good service when you're autistic isn't about finding the "perfect" moving company – it's about communicating your needs clearly. Most movers genuinely want to help, but can't accommodate what they don't understand.
I used to call moving companies and offer vague explanations like "I have sensory issues" or "I need things to be calm." Movers would say "no problem" without really knowing what that meant. One company claimed they were "autism-friendly" but showed up blasting music and using air horns for coordination.
The issue wasn't their willingness to help – it was the complete lack of specific information about what I actually needed.
After years of trial and error, I learned that effective communication means being incredibly specific:
Instead of: "I'm sensitive to noise"
Be specific: "I can't handle sudden loud noises like truck beeping or shouting between crew members, but steady background noise is fine."
Instead of: "I need a flexible schedule"
Be specific: "I work best from 9 AM to 2 PM and need a 30-minute break every two hours."
Instead of: "I get overwhelmed easily"
Be specific: "I can handle 2-3 people in my space at once and need warning before entering certain rooms."
Instead of: "I have communication needs"
Be specific: "I prefer one point person rather than multiple crew members talking to me directly."
Most people don't realize that clear communication often saves money. When you're specific upfront, companies can quote accurately instead of adding "difficulty charges" later. Some accommodations cost extra (like requesting smaller crews or specific time slots), but basic respectful service shouldn't.
Companies prefer detailed instructions because it prevents confusion and delays on moving day.
List specific sounds, lights, or textures that are problematic and what helps you cope.
Specify whether you want text updates, phone calls, or in-person check-ins.
Note any items that need advance notice or special care procedures.
Include your optimal working hours and when you need breaks or quiet time.
Prepare for common complications like delays, weather issues, or equipment problems.
After repeatedly struggling with this process, I eventually used localmovers.com for my latest move. They handled all the communication for me—asking the right questions, translating my needs into professional terms, and finding movers who understood autism accommodations without inflating prices.
For the first time, the crew showed up already knowing what to expect. They used hand signals instead of shouting, warned me before starting equipment, and respected my routines. Best of all, I paid standard rates because the company viewed accommodations as professional service, not premium add-ons.
Clear communication transformed my moving experience. Whether you handle it yourself or use a service like localmovers.com to do the translation, getting specific about your needs is the difference between chaos and success.
Key takeaways:
Don't let communication barriers turn your move into a nightmare. Get connected with movers who understand autism accommodations and respect your needs.
Professional service that treats accommodations as standard care, not special requests
Remember: You deserve a moving experience that works with your needs, not against them. Clear communication is your most powerful tool for making that happen.
