How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Richmond
Consider each company's services, licensing, customer reviews, and cost before choosing.
Determine Your Budget
Based on our findings, the average cost of a local mover in Richmond is $73 per hour. The overall cost amounts to $4,575 for a two-bedroom move. Your actual costs will vary depending on move distance, the season, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, and your home size.
You should obtain quotes from three or more movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that provide a clear breakdown of the total cost, including the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate readily available until the moving process is finished to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer feedback plays an important role for moving companies. Visit sites such as social media, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot to gain insights into customer experiences with that moving company.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Richmond must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, choose a company that carries a California Bureau of Household Goods and Services license. You can verify a company's license using the Transportation Carriers Lookup tool.
If you're moving interstate, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also carry 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 check a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Ask if the mover you chose provides the services that meet your expectations while obtaining quotes. Take inventory of your belongings when requesting quotes and document any basic or add-on services that might be necessary to ensure accurate pricing. Moreover, notify your moving company representative about any special conditions or specific needs you may have to assess the company's capability to offer suitable service.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers include the following standard services as a part of their base price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you need additional services from your moving company, inform them of these during the quote process. Additional fees 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 Richmond, CA
Here are some extra tips to keep in mind when moving in Richmond.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Richmond are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. We advise arranging before morning rush hour, which makes sure 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 Richmond. This can slow or negatively impact your moving experience. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to lock in your desired moving company. However, be prepared for the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies only carry items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before their arrival. You should start packing about six weeks before you move. Allocate some packing time daily to avoid needing to pack at the last minute.
How Much do Movers Cost in Richmond, CA
Movers in Richmond cost $2,756 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $8,612 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 | $2,756 | $3,747 | $8,612 |
250-999 miles | $3,376 | $4,443 | $11,945 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,432 | $5,030 | $12,927 |
2,500+ miles | $3,454 | $6,128 | $15,134 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Richmond
What is the average commute time in Richmond?
What is the housing market like in Richmond?
How much would it cost to complete a move in Richmond for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
What is the best moving company in Richmond?
How long should my move take?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.