Careers in the Moving Industry: Roles and How to Get Started
October 30, 2026
Careers in the Moving Industry: Roles, Skills, and How to Get Started
Every successful move depends on a team working behind the scenes. Drivers, crew members, warehouse staff, and operations managers all play a part in getting a family or business safely from one place to another. If you are looking for steady, hands on work, the moving industry offers a range of career paths. Here is an overview of the most common roles and what each one involves.
Common Roles at a Moving Company
Most moving companies rely on a few core positions. Movers and crew members handle packing, furniture protection, and loading. Warehouse staff receive, organize, and protect items held in storage. Operations and dispatch teams plan schedules, coordinate crews, and keep customers updated. Drivers transport shipments locally or across state lines.
What Long Distance Drivers Need to Know
Driving for an interstate moving company is different from general freight. Drivers often oversee loading, complete inventory paperwork, and work directly with customers at pickup and delivery. Operating larger commercial vehicles generally requires a commercial driver's license, and interstate commercial drivers must follow federal safety rules, including hours of service limits and medical certification requirements set by the FMCSA.
Skills That Help You Succeed
Moving work rewards people who are dependable, physically capable, and careful with other people's belongings. Strong communication matters too, since crews interact with customers on one of the most stressful days of their year. For warehouse and operations roles, organization and attention to detail are especially valuable.
Working With Joyce Van Lines
Joyce Van Lines has served customers for more than 40 years, with locations in Indianapolis, IN, Oxford, CT, Fort Myers, FL, and Redlands, CA. Our teams handle residential, corporate, and large volume moves, plus storage and packing. To see current openings and apply, visit our careers page. Moving companies interested in partnering with us can apply through our mover network page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Industry Careers
Do I need moving experience to work for a moving company?
Not always. Many entry level crew and warehouse roles train new team members on the job, covering safe lifting, furniture protection, and loading techniques. Prior experience in warehousing, construction, delivery, or customer service can be a plus. Driver and management roles typically require more specific experience, licensing, or background in logistics or operations.
Do moving truck drivers need a CDL?
It depends on the vehicle. Federal rules generally require a commercial driver’s license to operate vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating over 26,000 pounds, which includes many tractor trailers used for long distance moves. Smaller local moving trucks may not require one. Interstate commercial drivers must also meet FMCSA medical certification requirements.
What does a warehouse worker do at a moving and storage company?
Warehouse workers receive incoming shipments, check items against inventory records, and store them safely until delivery. They also prepare shipments for outbound trucks and help keep storage areas organized and protected. At a moving and storage company, this role is key to making sure customer belongings are tracked and handled carefully the whole time they are in storage.
Is moving industry work seasonal?
Moving demand typically peaks in late spring and summer, when families prefer to relocate between school years. Many companies stay busy year round with corporate relocations, storage, and commercial moves, but schedules and hours can vary by season. Ask about expected hours and busy periods during the hiring process so you know what to plan for.
How do I apply for a job at Joyce Van Lines?
You can apply online through the Joyce Van Lines Now Hiring page. Submit your contact information, the position you are interested in, and your resume. A hiring manager will review your application and reach out if there is a match. Applying online is the fastest way to get your information to the right team.
Ready to start your career in moving? Apply with Joyce Van Lines today.
