How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Decatur
Consider each moving company's services, cost, customer reviews, and licensing before picking.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, Decatur movers charge $56 per hour on average. The typical cost overall is $4,093 for two-bedroom homes. Your move distance, move date, home size, and any additional services you need will affect your actual cost.
You should obtain quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that outline the total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is complete.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer feedback plays a crucial role for moving companies. Check websites like the Better Business Bureau, social media, Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google Reviews to gain insights into the typical customer experience with that mover.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Decatur must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're moving from one Alabama city to another, your moving company must be registered with the Alabama Public Service Commission, Transportation Division to stay in good legal standing.
The requirements change if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also have active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can check a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assessing whether the mover provides the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Prepare for the quote process by making a detailed inventory of your possessions and noting any services you might require. Inform the moving company if you have any specific conditions or needs to determine if the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will provide the following services in the base price for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Tell your moving company about the additional services you need as you go through the quote process. Increased pricing may apply for these services:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Decatur, AL
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when moving to, from, or within Decatur.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Decatur can often cause delays. Movers stuck in traffic can also increase your moving costs when charged an hourly rate. Aim to arrange your move either several hours before or after the morning rush hour to prevent this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest time for movers—between May and September—coincides with Decatur's hottest time of year. This can impact your move if you start your search too late and can't find a moving company with availability. If you book in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the season. However, your movers may be hampered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
Most movers won't transport items that haven't been packed when your move is supposed to start. You should begin packing about six weeks before you move. Allocate some packing time each day to avoid needing to pack at the last minute.
How Much do Movers Cost in Decatur, AL
Movers in Decatur cost $2,589 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,570 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
---|---|---|---|
Less than 250 miles | $2,589 | $2,836 | $6,570 |
250-999 miles | $3,200 | $3,432 | $10,104 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,230 | $3,969 | $10,215 |
2,500+ miles | $3,101 | $5,022 | $12,326 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Decatur
What is the average commute time in Decatur?
Does Decatur have good schools?
How much would a Decatur move cost for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
What is the best moving company in Decatur?
How should I pack things up for my move?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.