How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Madison
Consider each company's customer reviews, services, licensing, and cost before choosing.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Madison is $111. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,044 in total. Your actual cost will depend on your home size, the season, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, and move distance.
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 hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final invoice to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Good customer feedback is essential for all moving companies. Reading customer reviews on websites such as the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, social media, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews will indicate which movers prioritize positive customer experiences. We recommend thoroughly researching customer reviews before choosing a moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Madison must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are making a short-haul move that's purely within Alabama, your mover must be registered with the Alabama Public Service Commission, Transportation Division to stay in good legal standing.
If you're moving across states, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also have active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, which you can use on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Asking whether the mover provides the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Take inventory of your belongings when getting quotes and document any additional services that you may need to ensure accurate pricing. Tell the moving company if you have any specific conditions or needs to determine if the company is a good fit.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers will include the following moving services in the starting cost:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When seeking a quote from your moving company, mention any special services you need. Additional fees may apply for the following 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 Madison, AL
Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Madison.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Madison can often cause delays. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. We recommend arranging before morning rush hour, which guarantees the movers avoid heavy traffic and finish the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest period for moving, which falls between May and September, coincides with the hot summer temperatures in Madison. This can slow or negatively impact your moving experience. By planning your move at least eight weeks in advance, you should be able to lock in the moving company you want. However, be prepared for the possibility that the hot weather could make the move more difficult for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Start packing about six weeks before your move so you won't have to rush at the last minute. You can pack a couple boxes each day to make the process more manageable. Most movers won't move items that aren't packed by the time your move begins.
How Much do Movers Cost in Madison, AL
Movers in Madison cost $2,572 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,362 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 | $2,572 | $2,743 | $6,362 |
250-999 miles | $3,182 | $3,329 | $9,916 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,209 | $3,860 | $9,938 |
2,500+ miles | $3,065 | $4,909 | $12,039 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Madison
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