
Deciding whether to hire a moving company can be a daunting task, especially with so many factors to consider. You can expect to pay around $200 to $1,000 or more for a local move, depending on the distance and weight of your belongings.
The cost of a long-distance move can be significantly higher, ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 or more. This is because moving companies need to factor in the cost of gas, tolls, and accommodations for their crews.
A reputable moving company will typically have a team of experienced professionals who can handle everything from packing to loading and unloading your belongings. This can be a huge stress-reliever, especially if you're moving to a new city or state.
It's essential to research and compare moving companies to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
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When to Hire Movers
If you're moving long distances, hiring a professional moving company is the way to go. Most national moving companies specialize in long-distance and interstate moves, leaving local moves to rental truck companies or smaller outfits.
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Hiring a moving company with a guaranteed pickup and delivery window can alleviate stress and give you time to prepare for your relocation in other ways. This is especially helpful if you're under a time constraint and need to vacate your current home before the end of the month or be in a new city in time to start a new job.
Professional movers can offer convenient services like vehicle transportation, custom crating for fragile items, specialty movers for pianos and fitness equipment, and assistance with other tasks you may not be able to arrange independently.
Types of Movers
Deciding to hire movers is only the first step. You'll come across several options, including moving brokers and carriers.
A moving broker is a middleman that connects you with a carrier, while a carrier is a company that owns and operates its own trucks and equipment.
You'll also need to determine the level of service you require, which can range from a basic move to a full-service move that includes packing and unpacking.
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Brokers vs Carriers
When choosing a mover, you'll often come across two main types: brokers and carriers. A broker acts as an intermediary between you and a third-party mover, contracting out your move to a moving carrier in its network.
Brokers don't have in-house staff or a fleet of moving trucks, which can be a drawback. A carrier, on the other hand, handles moves directly with its own fleet of trucks and employees.
Whether to hire a broker or carrier depends on your moving preferences, budget, and type of move. A broker may offer more services and hunt for the best price, but customer service may suffer.
A carrier with a fleet and dedicated customer support personnel will offer better service, but you may have to schedule your move early or miss out on a few desired services.
Reliable Transportation
Hiring professional movers can be a game-changer when it comes to reliable transportation.
Rental trucks can be unreliable and navigating them through unfamiliar roads can be nerve-wracking.
Company Considerations

When choosing a moving company, it's essential to consider their reputation and credentials. Ask for recommendations from family members, friends, coworkers, and your real estate agent about moving companies they've used and would highly recommend.
Comparing services is also crucial. This typically involves a representative coming to your home to assess the scope of the move. Don't be afraid to ask them to provide a clear estimate of the costs and services involved.
A reputable moving company should be licensed. Ask for the company's license number, which you can verify with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Be sure to examine the company's reviews on Google and with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Stick with a company that is BBB accredited and has a solid rating.
Company Operations
When choosing a moving company, it's essential to understand their operations. Professional moving companies handle the planning, loading, driving, and unloading necessary to complete your move. Many outfits also offer packing and other optional services for a fee.

You should verify a moving company is insured and legally licensed so you know you're working with a legitimate business. Professional interstate movers must be licensed by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT).
To ensure a smooth move, ask the representative for the company's license number, which you can verify with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This is a crucial step in choosing a reliable moving company.
Some moving companies strictly deliver in your local area, while national brands can facilitate a cross-country move. It's wise to compare services and shop around to find the best moving company for your needs.
Here are some key services to look for in a moving company:
- Full-service and partial moving options
- Professional packing and unpacking
- Short- and long-term storage solutions
- Clean, secure trucks and equipment
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
By considering these factors, you can find a reputable moving company that meets your needs and provides a stress-free moving experience.
Company Costs
Company Costs can add up quickly, with the average hourly cost of a labor-only local move ranging from $38 to $75 per mover, per hour.
The total cost of a local move can be around $1,250 for a two- or three-bedroom home, which is approximately 7,500 pounds.
Liability and valuation coverage, as well as storage needs, can also impact the overall cost of your move.
A long-distance move, on the other hand, can cost roughly $4,890.
Shopping around and comparing a few moving companies can give you a better idea of the services and costs involved.
Safety & Damage Prevention
Hiring a professional moving company can be a game-changer for your safety and the safety of your belongings. Professional Long Island movers have the experience and equipment to safely handle bulky or fragile items, like that antique dresser you've been holding onto.
They know exactly how to protect your floors, doorways, and valuables from damage, which is especially important if you have delicate or priceless items.
Professional movers also have a much lower risk of accidents or damage compared to DIY moves. You can avoid pulling a muscle trying to lift heavy furniture, and your relationships with family and friends won't suffer from the added stress of a move.
Here's a quick rundown of what professional movers can do to prevent damage:
- Protect your floors from scratches and dings
- Use specialized equipment to handle heavy or bulky items
- Know exactly how to maneuver furniture through doorways and hallways
Benefits of Hiring Movers

Hiring professional movers can be a game-changer for your local move.
By investing in professionals, you get peace of mind, which is priceless. You also get efficiency and speed, which can be a huge time-saver.
Professional movers take care of the safety of your belongings, which is a huge relief. They're also accountable for their work, so you don't have to worry about anything going wrong.
Here are some of the benefits of hiring professional movers:
- Peace of mind
- Efficiency and speed
- Safety of your belongings
- Professional accountability
- Less wear and tear on your body and your relationships
Free Help
Hiring a moving company may not be necessary if you have friends and family ready and willing to pitch in. The most physically demanding aspect of any move is loading and unloading your belongings into and out of a truck, trailer, or container.
You can save money by getting free help from friends and family. This can be a huge cost savings, especially for smaller moves.
Loading and unloading your belongings quickly and safely is key, and having enough willing participants can make all the difference.
Cost vs. Value

Hiring professional movers can seem like a pricey option, but let's break it down to the real costs and benefits.
The average hourly cost of a labor-only local move ranges from $38 to $75 per mover, per hour. This can add up quickly, especially for larger homes.
You're not just paying for labor, though. Professional movers also offer peace of mind, which can be invaluable. According to Moving.com, a local move of a two- or three-bedroom home (approximately 7,500 pounds) costs an average of $1,250.
This cost includes the safety of your belongings, which is a huge benefit. You can expect to pay more for long-distance moves, which can run roughly $4,890.
Let's compare the costs to the value: Peace of mindEfficiency and speedSafety of your belongingsProfessional accountabilityLess wear and tear on your body and your relationships
As you can see, the benefits of hiring professional movers far outweigh the costs. It's clear that professional movers often deliver a better return on investment, especially for something as important as your home and possessions.
Compare Prices

Comparing prices is a crucial step in hiring the right movers for your needs. With straightforward hourly rates on platforms like HireAHelper, you can easily compare prices and make an informed decision.
You'll know exactly how much you'll be paying for each helper's services. This transparency helps you avoid any surprise costs or hidden fees.
Every customer has the opportunity to leave a review on platforms like HireAHelper, giving you valuable insights into the quality of service. You can see exactly what other people are loving most about a particular helper.
Business details and credentials are clearly listed for every helper, so you can trust that they have the necessary equipment and expertise for your move.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of moving companies?
High costs are a major con of hiring a moving company, with expenses determined by distance, move size, and additional services. This can be a significant drawback for those on a tight budget
How can I avoid being scammed by a moving company?
Verify a moving company's registration and reputation before hiring, and be cautious of scams if you see unclear or missing information
Sources
- https://www.thisoldhouse.com/moving/are-movers-worth-it
- https://www.cbsnews.com/news/are-moving-companies-worth-it/
- https://funcheaporfree.com/why-its-worth-the-money-to-hire-movers-and-how-to-do-it-right/
- https://vocal.media/lifehack/10-reasons-why-hiring-a-moving-company-is-worth-the-investment
- https://www.austinmands.com/is-it-worth-hiring-professional-movers-for-a-local-move/
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