The hidden skills we learn in the Moving Industry

When you are speaking with someone outside of the “Moving” industry, it can be difficult for your audience to truly understand what we do. Most of the time, outsiders picture trucks, moving boxes, and packing tape. But for us, we know there is much more beneath the surface. The skills you develop from this industry may be hidden, but powerful.

Here are just a few “hidden strengths” that I have learned from 12 years in the industry at Armstrong Moving Ltd.

1. Natural problem solving – We all know that sometimes not everything goes according to plan. Working in the moving industry teaches you to keep calm, get creative, and quickly solve problems. You learn to think on your feet and sometimes need to make quick decisions without having all the information you would want. Keep in mind you are doing all of this while keeping your client confident that everything is going to be ok!
2. Building trust quickly – Moving is very personal. Picture this – You are welcomed into the home of a stranger, walking around their prized possessions, and trying to earn their trust. In a few days, there will be a team of strangers working efficiently to pack and protect all their personal goods.  In a world where trust is becoming harder to win, having this skill is a huge advantage.  
3. Learning different cultures – Working in global mobility, you are basically forced to learn multiple cultures. Learning how to communicate with anyone and being able to adapt to different cultures and expectations is a skill I have learned. This cannot be taught through a textbook, only from real people and real situations.
4. Resilience and grit – For those in the industry we know how demanding it can be. One night you’re out networking late, and the next morning you’re up early for a major meeting — all while managing tight timelines and high-pressure tasks. Being resilient becomes who we are. It comes out in the work we do, how we lead, and also navigate other challenges in our lives outside of work.

These skills rarely show up on resumes or job descriptions, but they shape how we show up in all parts of our lives. The moving industry goes far beyond trucks, moving boxes, and packing tape. The hidden skills you learn through real experience’s in the moving industry shape us into people who can handle anything – and that is powerful!