How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Riverside
You should consider several crucial factors when choosing a mover. These are some things to look out for when hiring movers in Riverside.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, Riverside movers charge $74 per hour on average. The average cost overall is $4,314 for two-bedroom homes. Your move distance, home size, move date, and any additional services you need will determine your actual cost.
Consider obtaining quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area to make an educated choice. Written estimates are essential in this process. They should contain a total cost breakdown, covering the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is done.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are indispensable when looking for a mover. Take time to read customer reviews on websites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and social media to identify moving companies that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Riverside must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're moving from one California city to another, choose a company that carries a California Bureau of Household Goods and Services license. You can check a company's state 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 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
Assess whether your chosen mover offers the services you need when requesting quotes. Get ready for the quote process by making a detailed inventory of your possessions and writing down any services you might require. Inform your moving company representative about any special conditions or needs to see whether the company can provide adequate 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
Make sure that your moving company is aware of any extra services you require while going through the quote process. Services that can contribute to 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 Riverside, CA
Keep the following in mind before moving to, from, or within Riverside.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Riverside are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also increase your moving costs when charged an hourly rate. We advise planning before morning rush hour, which ensures the movers avoid heavy traffic and wrap up the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Riverside, this time corresponds to very hot summer weather, which can delay or worsen your moving experience. By planning your move at least eight weeks in advance, you should be able to secure the moving company you want. However, be prepared for the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies only move items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before their arrival. We recommend you start packing around six weeks in advance to prevent rushing to pack when moving day comes. Spending time packing a few boxes each day can make the process less overwhelming.
How Much do Movers Cost in Riverside, CA
Movers in Riverside cost $2,666 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,506 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 | $2,666 | $3,254 | $7,506 |
250-999 miles | $3,280 | $3,896 | $10,948 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,323 | $4,455 | $11,458 |
2,500+ miles | $3,263 | $5,529 | $13,614 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Riverside
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