How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Mobile
Consider each moving company's services, cost, licensing, and customer reviews before choosing.
Determine Your Budget
Local movers in Mobile charge an average hourly rate of $50. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,071 in total. Factors that affect your actual cost include your home size, the season, move distance, and any additional tasks you need done.
We recommend obtaining quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Don't forget to request written estimates. These should provide a breakdown of the total cost, including 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
Customer reviews hold value when looking for a mover. Looking at customer reviews on platforms such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and social media will indicate which movers prioritize positive customer experiences. We suggest thoroughly researching customer reviews before choosing a moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Mobile must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving within Alabama, your mover must be registered with the Alabama Public Service Commission, Transportation Division to stay in good legal standing.
The requirements are different if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a mover licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can find a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether your chosen mover can provide the specific services you need when requesting quotes. Take inventory of your home before getting quotes and note down any basic or add-on services that you may need to ensure accurate pricing. Discuss any special conditions or needs with your moving company representative in order to determine whether the company is able to meet your specific requirements.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers will include the following services in the standard price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Make sure you inform your mover of any special services you require during the quote process. Services that result in higher pricing include the following:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Mobile, AL
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when relocating to, from, or within Mobile.
Schedule an Early Move
Mobile sees its fair share of traffic, and navigating this can be a challenge in a moving truck. Getting stuck in traffic during your move can lead to delays and significantly impact your budget since local movers charge by the hour. Planning your move for the early morning will ensure that your movers get there before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the afternoon when traffic is less congested.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Mobile, this time coincides with very hot summer weather, which can slow or worsen your move. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to secure 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
Most moving companies won't transport items that haven't been packed when your move starts. Start packing approximately six weeks before your move to avoid rushing at the last minute. You can pack a few boxes each day to make the process more manageable.
How Much do Movers Cost in Mobile, AL
Movers in Mobile cost $2,582 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $6,478 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 | $2,582 | $2,795 | $6,478 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,192 | $3,387 | $10,021 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,221 | $3,921 | $10,093 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,085 | $4,972 | $12,200 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Mobile
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