How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Fort Lauderdale
A few factors to consider when looking for a moving company include customer reviews, services offered, licensing, and cost.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, the average local mover in Fort Lauderdale costs $68 per hour. The typical local move costs $4,246 total for two-bedroom homes. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include move distance, the season, your home size, and any additional tasks you need done.
We advise obtaining quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Remember to request written estimates. These should outline the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Hold onto your mover's estimate until your move is finished.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are valuable when looking for a mover. You can find moving companies that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, social media, Yelp, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Fort Lauderdale must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are only moving within Florida, your mover must have an active registration with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). You can verify the company has an active license using its License Lookup tool.
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
Assess whether your chosen mover can provide the services you need during the quote process. Make a list of any services you might need and take inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Tell the moving company if you have any specific conditions or needs to determine if the company is a fit.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers will include the following moving services in the base price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When seeking a quote from your moving company, discuss any extra services you require. Increased pricing may apply for the following 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 Fort Lauderdale, FL
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind for your Fort Lauderdale move.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Fort Lauderdale are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also increase your moving costs when charged an hourly rate. You can prevent this by booking movers several hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
The busiest moving period, which falls between May and September, coincides with the hot summer temperatures in Fort Lauderdale. This can negatively impact your move. 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 movers won't move items that haven't been packed by your scheduled moving time. Start packing around six weeks before your move so you won't have to rush at the last minute. You can pack a couple boxes each day to make the process less stressful.
How Much do Movers Cost in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Movers in Fort Lauderdale cost $2,642 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,217 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 | $2,642 | $3,125 | $7,217 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,256 | $3,752 | $10,687 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,294 | $4,305 | $11,074 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,213 | $5,372 | $13,215 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Fort Lauderdale
What is the job market like in Fort Lauderdale?
What is the housing market like in Fort Lauderdale?
How much would it cost to complete a move in Fort Lauderdale for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
What is the best moving company in Fort Lauderdale?
How should I pack things up for my move?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
