How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Lodi
A few factors to consider when looking for a moving company include licensing, services offered, customer reviews, and cost.
Determine Your Budget
Based on our findings, the average cost of a local move in Lodi is $62 per hour. The overall cost adds up to $4,515 for a two-bedroom move. Your actual cost will depend on any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, move distance, the season, and your home size.
You should obtain quotes from at least three movers in your area. Request written estimates that provide a clear breakdown of the total cost, including the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final cost to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews hold significant value when looking for a mover. Take the time to read customer reviews on platforms like social media, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to find moving companies that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Lodi must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within California, choose a company that carries a California Bureau of Household Goods and Services license. You can verify a company's local license using the Transportation Carriers Lookup tool.
The requirements differ 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 see a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether your chosen mover offers the services you need when requesting quotes. Compile a list of any basic or add-on services you may require and take inventory of your home before requesting quotes. Notify your moving company representative about any special conditions or needs to determine whether the company can provide suitable service.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will provide the following services in the base price for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When requesting a quote from your moving company, discuss any special services you require. The following services may result in increased pricing for your move:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Lodi, CA
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind for your Lodi move.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Lodi are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also increase your moving costs when charged an hourly rate. Planning your move for the early morning ensures that your movers arrive before rush hour and head to your new home in the afternoon when traffic is lighter.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the peak moving season and Lodi's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your move, especially if you start searching for a moving company too late. The high demand could lead to limited availability with your desired mover. If you book in advance, you should be able to schedule with the mover you desire regardless of the season. However, the movers may be hindered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
Most movers approach same-day packing requests similarly. In many cases, movers will not move loose items that haven’t been packed by the time your move is scheduled to begin. You should start packing about six weeks before you move. Spend some time packing each day to avoid last-minute scrambling on moving day.
How Much do Movers Cost in Lodi, CA
Movers in Lodi cost $2,735 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $8,357 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 | $2,735 | $3,634 | $8,357 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,354 | $4,317 | $11,716 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,407 | $4,898 | $12,589 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,410 | $5,990 | $14,785 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Lodi
What is the average cost of living in Lodi?
Does Lodi have good schools?
How much do movers cost in Lodi?
What is the best moving company in Lodi?
What should I do if I need to change my move date?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
