How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Stratford
Consider each company's cost, licensing, customer reviews, and services before deciding.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for a local mover in Stratford is $65. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs $4,680 overall. Factors that affect your actual cost include any additional tasks you need done, the season, your home size, and move distance.
We recommend obtaining quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area. Be sure to request written estimates. These should outline the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your to the final cost after your move helps ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Positive customer feedback is essential for all moving companies. Take time to read customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, social media, Trustpilot, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to identify movers that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Stratford must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving within Connecticut, your moving company must have a Household Goods Carrier Certificate or Motor Contract Carrier permit issued by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT).
If you're moving across state lines, the regulations are different. Interstate moving companies must be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and must carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use these numbers to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Asking whether the mover offers the services you need is crucial during the quote process. Get ready for the quote process by making a detailed inventory of your possessions and noting any services you may need. Inform your moving company representative about any special conditions or needs to evaluate whether the company can provide satisfactory service.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers offer 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
Inform your moving company about the extra services you need during the quote process. The following services may result in higher 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 Stratford, CT
Keep these tips in mind before moving to, from, or within Stratford.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Stratford are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. Aim to schedule your move either a few hours before or after the morning rush hour to prevent this issue.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the busiest moving season and Stratford's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your moving process, especially if you begin your search for a moving company too close to your move. The high demand could reduce your chances of securing your desired mover. Plan ahead and book your desired mover at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential difficulties the hot summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies only transport items that have been packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before they arrive. We suggest you begin packing around six weeks in advance to avoid rushing to pack on your moving day. Spending time packing some items each day can make the process less stressful.
How Much do Movers Cost in Stratford, CT
Movers in Stratford cost $2,792 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $9,057 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 | $2,792 | $3,946 | $9,057 |
250-999 miles | $3,414 | $4,663 | $12,347 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,476 | $5,261 | $13,518 |
2,500+ miles | $3,531 | $6,370 | $15,747 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Stratford
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