When preparing for a move, it’s important to get local moving quotes from multiple companies. This can help you make the best choice to suit your needs and budget. However, a variety of factors can influence the final cost of a local move, from movers’ hourly rates to how much space you have in your new home.
If you’re a first-time customer, ask about discounts or special deals that may be available. Some movers offer student or military discounts, and others may have other promotions running. Another way to save is by moving during the off-season, as this can often be less expensive.
Local moves are usually priced by the hour, although some movers also offer add-on services or flat rates for larger shipments. The size of your shipment and its weight will affect the quote, as well as any specialized equipment or items you need to be moved. The time of year is also a factor, as moving during peak season can increase rates.
Before hiring a moving company, verify that they are licensed and insured. This protects you in the event that something goes wrong during your move. It’s also a good idea to ask friends, family members and neighbors for recommendations. They can tell you about their experiences with local movers, and they may be able to provide you with references.
Depending on the size of your move, it’s possible that you may need to rent extra storage units. This can be a great option for those who have a lot of extra items that won’t fit in their new home or if they don’t have the room to store them all in their garage. The storage facility can store your belongings safely until you are ready to have them delivered to your new home.
Some movers may offer additional insurance policies, so check into these options as well. These additional policies can often cover things like furniture scratches and dents, as well as damage caused by inclement weather or road conditions. If you have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, this may also cover part of your move.
It’s always a good idea to gather at least three quotes before selecting a local moving company. This will give you some context and help you spot red flags, such as a price that’s drastically higher or lower than the competition.
Whether you’re moving down the street or across the state, an intrastate move is considered a local move by most movers. A local move is priced based on the distance between your origin and destination locations, plus any extra services you need.
A long-distance move is any move that’s 100 miles or more from your current location. Most legitimate long-distance movers will charge based on the weight of your shipment and any additional services required. However, some movers will try to overcharge by charging per cubic foot instead of weight. So, it’s important to check out how your movers calculate their charges and only choose those who will use the metric of weight. local moving quotes