
Choosing the right short distance moving company can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Research shows that most people move within a 50-mile radius, making short distance moving a common occurrence.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free move, it's essential to choose a reputable and reliable moving company. According to industry statistics, a good short distance moving company should have a minimum of 3 years of experience and a physical address, not just a PO box.
When evaluating potential moving companies, check their insurance coverage and licenses to operate in your state. A reputable company will have the necessary certifications and insurance to protect your belongings during the move.
Don't be afraid to ask for references or read online reviews to get a sense of a company's reputation and customer satisfaction. A company with a high rating and positive reviews is more likely to provide excellent service.
Choosing a Moving Company

A binding or "not to exceed" moving estimate provides peace of mind by setting a maximum price for your move. This is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a moving company, as it ensures you know exactly how much you'll be paying upfront.
Professional movers with years of experience are a safer bet than those just starting out. This added experience also suggests a higher level of expertise in dealing with unique moving situations. You can trust that they'll handle your belongings with care.
Before hiring a moving company, make sure to request free moving quotes and understand each company's process for providing an estimate. Always check online reviews to get firsthand insights into a company's customer service, fees, and how well it handles customers' possessions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Company
Choosing a moving company can be a daunting task, but by considering a few key factors, you can make an informed decision. A reputable moving company will provide you with a binding or "not to exceed" moving estimate, which sets a maximum price for your move and gives you peace of mind.

Years of experience are also an important factor to consider. A company with more years of experience is likely to have better customer service and quality, as well as more expertise in dealing with unique moving situations.
Online reviews are a valuable resource in choosing the best moving company. Look for reviews that provide firsthand insights into a company's customer service, fees, and handling of customers' possessions.
Don't forget to check if the moving company is properly licensed and insured. This will lower your financial risk in case something goes wrong with your move.
Consider your specific moving needs, such as packing services or temporary storage. Make a list of the type of moving assistance you need, and see which companies provide these services.
Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a moving company:
- Moving quote: Binding or "not to exceed" estimate
- Years of experience: More experience means better customer service and quality
- References and reviews: Online reviews provide firsthand insights
- Insurance and licensing: Proper licensing and insurance lower financial risk
- Availability: Choose a company that is available on the day of your move
Why Choose Affordable LLC for Your Move?
Choosing a moving company can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. Efficiency is key, and professional movers are skilled in packing and transporting belongings swiftly and safely.
Reliability is also crucial, and a professional moving company is contractually obliged to show up and perform the job. This means you can count on them to get the job done, unlike well-meaning friends and family who may not be as reliable.
Safety should always be a top priority, and professional movers have the right equipment and expertise to handle heavy and delicate items, minimizing the risk of injury and damage. Insurance is also a must, and professional movers are insured, providing a safety net for your valuables.
Here are some benefits of choosing a professional moving company:
- Efficiency: Professional movers can pack and transport your belongings quickly and safely.
- Reliability: Professional movers are contractually obliged to show up and perform the job.
- Safety: Professional movers have the right equipment and expertise to handle heavy and delicate items.
- Insurance: Professional movers are insured, providing a safety net for your valuables.
- Cost-Effective: Hiring professionals can save you from costly mistakes, property damage, or personal injury.
By choosing a professional moving company, you're not only investing in your peace of mind, but also ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition to your new home.
Speed & Reliability
Choosing a moving company can be a daunting task, but one thing's for sure: hiring professionals can save you a ton of stress and hassle. Professional movers are skilled in packing and transporting belongings swiftly and safely.

A professional moving company is contractually obliged to show up and perform the job, unlike well-meaning friends and family. This means you can count on them to be there on moving day, no matter what.
Professional movers have the right equipment and expertise to handle heavy and delicate items, minimizing the risk of injury and damage. This is especially important when moving items up and down stairs, around tight corners, or through narrow hallways.
By hiring professionals, you can avoid costly mistakes, property damage, or personal injury. This can end up saving you money in the long run, even if there is an upfront cost.
Here are some benefits of hiring a professional moving company:
- Efficiency: Professional movers can pack and transport your belongings quickly and safely
- Reliability: Professional movers will show up and do the job, unlike friends and family
- Safety: Professional movers have the right equipment and expertise to handle heavy and delicate items
- Insurance: Professional movers are insured, providing a safety net for your valuables
- Cost-Effective: Hiring professionals can save you money in the long run
Understanding the Cost
The cost of hiring a short distance moving company can vary greatly, depending on several factors.
Time spent in transit and distance covered are two of the main factors that influence the cost. The more time and distance involved, the higher the cost.
Here's an interesting read: International Moving Companies Cost

The presence of a travel fee can also add to the overall cost. Not all moving companies charge a travel fee, but it's something to consider when getting quotes.
The size of your apartment and the number of items you need to move are also important factors. Larger apartments and more items require more time and labor, which increases the cost.
You can expect to pay between $60 and $85 per hour per mover in Los Angeles, with a total cost ranging from $240 to $340 for a quick move that takes about 2 hours and requires 2 movers.
Here are some estimated costs to consider:
Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual cost may vary depending on your specific needs and the moving company you choose.
Hiring a Moving Company
Hiring a moving company can be a great option for a short distance move, especially if you want a streamlined process. Professional movers can handle the work while you focus on other important parts of your move.
A different take: Moving Companies That Move Cars and Furniture

A streamlined moving process is one of the main benefits of hiring a moving company. They can pack and unpack your belongings, load and unload the moving truck, and even help with more complicated tasks like furniture disassembly.
To find a reputable moving company, request free moving quotes and make sure you understand each company's process for providing an estimate. A binding or "not to exceed" moving estimate provides peace of mind by setting a maximum price for your move.
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a moving company:
By considering these factors, you can find a reputable moving company that meets your needs and provides a stress-free transition to your new home.
Ask for Referrals
Ask for referrals from friends and family members who have used a moving company they like. Referrals are valuable because you know and trust your personal connections.
You can ask around to see if anyone has any recommendations. Both of you may even get a referral bonus, so be sure to mention who referred you to your moving company.
Referrals can save you from worrying about fake reviews. Odds are if they're raving about a company, then you'll like them too.
For another approach, see: 15 Questions to Ask Moving Companies
Should You Hire a Moving Company?

Hiring a moving company can make a big difference in the smoothness of your move. Professional movers can handle the work while you focus on other important parts of your move, like setting up utilities at your new home.
A streamlined moving process is one of the main benefits of hiring a moving company. They can pack and unpack your belongings, load and unload the moving truck, and even handle more complicated tasks like furniture disassembly.
Most professional movers offer some level of insurance coverage in case something breaks. This can give you peace of mind knowing everything will arrive safely at its destination.
You can find moving help from local job listing sites like Craigslist, or use U-Haul's Moving Help program. However, keep in mind that you'll need to provide the truck and hire the help, which could end up costing you about as much as hiring full service short distance movers.

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a short-distance moving company:
- Moving quote: Requesting free moving quotes is a given, but make sure you understand each company's process for providing an estimate.
- Years of experience: The more years of experience a company has, the more confidence you can have in its customer service and quality.
- References and reviews: Online reviews are a valuable reference point in choosing the best short-distance moving company.
- Insurance and licensing: Always make sure a short-distance mover is properly licensed and insured.
- Your moving needs: Do you need packing services or just someone to load and unload the truck?
It's also a good idea to ask around to friends and family members to see if they've used a moving company that they like. Referrals are very valuable because you know and trust your personal connections.
Preparing for the Move
Hiring a professional moving company can transform a stressful experience into a seamless transition. Efficiency is key, and professional movers are skilled in packing and transporting belongings swiftly and safely.
Downsizing and decluttering can make moving day easier and cheaper. The less stuff you have, the cheaper your move will be, regardless of whether you DIY or use full-service movers.
Here are some benefits of downsizing and decluttering:
- Rent a smaller truck or moving container, which will cost less.
- Moving labor will also go much faster, further lowering your expenses.
- You can sell your unwanted items and use the proceeds to help cover moving costs.
A professional moving company is contractually obliged to show up and perform the job, providing reliability and peace of mind.
Downsize and Declutter
Downsizing and decluttering before your move can save you money on moving costs. Downsizing makes moving day easier and cheaper, regardless of whether you DIY or use full-service movers.

The less stuff you have, the cheaper your move will be. This is because you can rent a smaller truck or moving container, which will cost less.
Moving labor will go much faster with fewer items to move, further lowering your expenses. You can also sell your unwanted items and use the proceeds to help cover moving costs.
What Constitutes a Move?
A short-distance move is generally any relocation that's 50 miles or less, and doesn't cross state lines.
You have several options for a local move, including professional moving companies, moving truck rental companies, moving containers, and tow-behind trailers.
Professional moving companies handle all the packing, loading, assembly, disassembly, and driving for you, but may not be the cheapest way to move locally.
Moving truck rental companies let you rent the truck and pack, load, and move everything yourself.
Moving containers are a great option if you want to load them yourself and then have the company transport them to your new home, or use them as storage until you're ready to move in.
Additional reading: Moving Companies for Small Moves Long Distance
Tow-behind trailers are a cheaper option, but you'll need to have the proper know-how and a car with the capability to tow.
A short distance move typically refers to a relocation within a 50-mile radius, which could be within the same city, neighborhood, or even building.
This type of move still requires meticulous planning, packing, loading, and unloading, just like a long-distance move, but your belongings won't have to endure a lengthy travel time, reducing the risk of damage.
What Constitutes a Small Move?
A small move is a relocation that doesn't require a full-scale moving company. It's a more manageable and cost-effective option for those with limited moving needs.
You might be wondering what constitutes a small move. Well, it can include a load-only move, where you only need help loading your belongings into a truck. It can also be a crated move, but this is typically for long-distance moving.
A move in or out of a storage unit is another example of a small move. This is a great option if you need to store your belongings for a short period. Single and large item moves are also considered small moves, making it a convenient choice for those with limited items to move.
Small apartment moves, condo moves, and college dorm room moves are all examples of small moves that don't require a full-scale moving company. These types of moves are often less stressful and more affordable than larger moves.
Here are some examples of small moves:
- Load-only moves
- Crated moves (long-distance moving)
- Moves in or out of a storage unit
- Single and large item moves
- Small apartment moves
- Condo moves
- College dorm room moves
Start Early
Starting early is crucial for a smooth short distance move. Begin taking the first steps one month in advance to move-out day.
If you have the luxury of starting early, take full advantage of it. We suggest you start planning and preparing at least a month before your move.
Moving is a lot of work, and it's easy to underestimate the time, money, and effort required. Overestimate the cost, time, and difficulty of your move to account for any unexpected challenges.
DIY vs. Hiring a Mover
When deciding between a DIY move and hiring a professional mover, consider the time and effort involved. Packing and unpacking your belongings, loading and unloading a moving truck, can be a significant undertaking.

A DIY move may be feasible for short distances, but it can be physically exhausting and time-consuming. Professional movers, on the other hand, can handle the work, freeing up your time to focus on other important aspects of your move.
Hiring a professional mover can also provide peace of mind, knowing that fragile items will be handled with care and that complicated tasks like furniture disassembly will be taken care of.
Here are some key differences to consider:
- Packing and unpacking: DIY move
- Loading and unloading: DIY move
- Furniture disassembly: Professional mover
- Fragile item handling: Professional mover
Ultimately, the decision to hire a professional mover or go with a DIY move depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Rental DIY
If you're looking to save some cash on your move, renting a truck for a DIY move is a great option. You can rent a truck from companies like U-Haul or Penske for a couple hundred dollars.
One of the main advantages of renting a truck is that you have much more space to fit your stuff, so you won't need to take multiple trips. Moving trucks are also much easier to load than pickup trucks, since they have ramps.

You'll still need to provide your own tools for assembly and disassembly, like for your kitchen table or bed set, and moving supplies like boxes, tape, and moving blankets. And, you'll need at least one other able-bodied person to help you move the big stuff.
Budget Truck Rental is a great option for DIY moves, offering 12-, 16-, and 26-foot moving trucks for low-cost rentals. You can save even more by opting for a cargo van for studio apartments.
Here are some pros and cons to consider:
When to Hire a Mover vs. DIY
A short distance DIY move can be a good option, but it's not always the best choice. Professional movers can handle the work while you focus on other important parts of your move.
If you have a lot of fragile or bulky items, hiring a professional mover can be a lifesaver. They can help with tasks like furniture disassembly and ensure that everything is handled with care.
Insurance coverage is another benefit of hiring a professional mover. Most movers offer some level of insurance, which can give you peace of mind in case something breaks.
A DIY move can be physically exhausting, especially if you have a lot of heavy furniture to lift and move. Professional movers have the equipment and expertise to get the job done quickly and safely.
Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding between a DIY move and hiring a professional mover:
Ultimately, hiring a professional mover can save you time and stress in the long run, even if it costs a bit more upfront.
5. Communicate Core Meaning
Communicate your budget and priorities clearly to your moving company. This will help them understand what's most important to you.
Telling your moving company that speed and price are your priority can save you time and money. Sometimes, movers will take extra precautions with your belongings that you might not need.
If you've taken steps to prepare and protect your belongings, let your movers know this too. This way, they'll be aware of the extra care you've taken and can adjust their approach accordingly.
Broaden your view: Abreu Movers - Bronx Moving Companies
Tips and Advice

If you're considering hiring a short distance moving company, here are some tips to keep in mind: Make sure to research and book with a reputable company to ensure a smooth and stress-free move.
Professional movers can handle the work while you focus on other important parts of your move, such as setting up utilities at your new home. This can be a huge time-saver and allow you to settle into your new home sooner.
Here are some benefits of hiring a professional mover:
- A streamlined moving process
- Help with tough tasks like furniture disassembly
- Insurance coverage in case something breaks
- A time-saver that gets the job done quickly and safely
By hiring a professional mover, you'll have peace of mind knowing everything will arrive safely at its destination.
5 Ways to Speed Up Movers
Movers are fast and efficient, able to zoom your stuff on and off the truck with ease. This means you can stay on schedule rather than moving yourself into the wee hours of the night.
Professional movers have the physical conditioning and technique to handle heavy and delicate items, minimizing the risk of injury and damage. They also have the right equipment to get the job done quickly and safely.

By hiring professional movers, you can save yourself from costly mistakes, property damage, or personal injury. This can be a huge cost-saver in the long run, especially if you're planning a short distance move.
Here are a few ways to speed up your movers:
* TaskTime SavedPacking and unpackingSeveral hours or even daysFurniture disassembly and reassemblySeveral hours or even daysLoading and unloading the moving truckSeveral hours or even days
By letting the professionals handle these tasks, you can free up your time to focus on other important parts of your move, like setting up utilities at your new home.
How Much to Tip
The national suggested amount to tip your moving company is between $20 and $50 per mover per full day’s work.
For a small job requiring 5 hours of work or less, $20 per mover per day is a good tip for a short distance move.
Tips are not required or expected for short distance moving, so you can skip them if you're tight on cash or didn't like their service.
If you particularly liked the service, you should tip between $40-$50 per short distance mover per day for longer days.
Having cold drinks on hand and/or buying them lunch can also show your appreciation and have a positive effect on their attitude and efficiency.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Full Service Commercial Moving Companies in Texas
Pros and Cons
If you're considering hiring a short distance moving company, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons. Professional movers can transform a stressful experience into a seamless transition.
One significant advantage of hiring a short distance moving company is efficiency. They're skilled in packing and transporting belongings swiftly and safely.
Reliability is another crucial aspect to consider. Unlike well-meaning friends and family, a professional moving company is contractually obliged to show up and perform the job.
Safety is also a top priority with professional movers. They have the right equipment and expertise to handle heavy and delicate items, minimizing the risk of injury and damage.
On the other hand, there's an upfront cost to consider when hiring a professional moving company.
Here are some key benefits of hiring a professional short distance moving company:
The benefits of hiring a professional moving company can make a significant difference in the outcome of your move.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a short distance move?
A short distance move is typically defined as relocating within a local area, not exceeding 100 miles, often within the same city or metropolitan area. This type of move is usually less complex and requires less planning than longer-distance moves.
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