What to Expect From Local Movers

Moving is a stressful experience, even if it’s only across town. There are many moving parts to a local move, and many hidden costs that can quickly add up. Understanding what to expect can help you make informed decisions and stay on budget.

Local movers typically charge by the hour and include travel time and gas fees in their estimates. They may also charge extra for special circumstances such as long carries, elevator charges or additional stops. These charges can add up, so it’s important to have an accurate idea of the total move cost before hiring your movers.

A full-service local moving company will pick up and transport your belongings in a truck or storage container. They will also load and unload the items into your new home. Full service movers are the most expensive option, but they can be helpful if you don’t want to lift or carry anything yourself, need storage at your new home or are unable to schedule your move for a weekend.

Some local moving companies offer a la carte services that are more cost effective than full-service movers. They can help you pack or unpack, provide hourly labor to load or unload a rental truck or PODS container, or assist with house cleaning and handyman services. A la carte local movers are more flexible than a full-service mover and typically charge less per hour than a full-service mover.

Other costs of a local move may include rental truck or PODS container rentals, house cleaning or handyman services, additional stops on the way to and from your new home, packing supplies (boxes, bubble cushion roll, tape), fuel surcharges, utility deposits and connections at your new location, pet fees for a relocation with a family pet, and other miscellaneous expenses. It’s also wise to ask your local movers about their liability options so that you can better understand your rights if any damage occurs during the move.

In addition, it’s also helpful to consider seasonal moving rates in your area when planning a move. Spring and summer are the busiest times for local moves, so you may see higher rates and limited availability during those months. Similarly, weekends tend to be the most expensive dates for moving, as many people try to fit their local moves into the weekend to avoid taking time off of work.